Archaeology Study Abroad Programs in England

I had originally gone to the Middlebury CMRS program because I wanted to prove that I was better than anyone else; however, once I realized that there was more to Oxford than merely intelligence (after a prolonged period not going outside), this quickly fell by the wayside. To be surrounded by bookshelves that had their own horizons, maze-like streets you didn't mind getting lost within, and pubs galore to go have philosophical discussions whilst downing another Guinness, it's all a treat that I hope to take part in again. I grew as a result of the program, as I no longer feel as though I have to prove my worth to anyone. Instead, I only wish to grow as a means to become a better citizen of the world.

My time at Middlebury CMRS was really rewarding. Adjusting to a new academic environment and system was definitely intimidating at first, but I grew to really appreciate the change, especially because of how much it pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Until coming to this program, I didn't realize how quickly I could read and write, and that helped me overcome intellectual/academic perfectionism. The tutorial system was definitely difficult and lots of work, but it felt really good to be taken so intellectually seriously by Oxford tutors, and the system also allowed me to create strong relationships with each of my tutors. By the end, I felt very proud of myself for taking on such a difficult course/workload and realizing that I could still keep up and do well. It built my intellectual confidence and also allowed me to meet some really wonderful people and create some really cool experiences and memories.

Overall, my time in Exeter was phenomenal! The USF Semester in England program allowed our cohort the right window to truly feel a sense of home away from home in southwest England while remaining directed and specific in goals. With this, I was able to spend time getting to know both local and international students, participate in societies and events, and travel to nearby towns to get a feel for the broader English landscape. It was both fascinating and enjoyable to immerse myself in the culture whether through pub crawls and thrifting, fish and chips and cream teas, or hikes and train rides. In short, each new experience impels one to consider, what is uniquely British and not American here, but also what remains similar? Academically, studying abroad posed a unique but welcome challenge in the more self-directed, term-paper approach in Exeter instead of a structured weekly assignment schedule. Ultimately, the biggest lesson for me was actually being able to better appreciate the value of diversity in thought and the importance of travel to achieve this, and I continue to hope to encourage others to take this kind of chance since such opportunities are not so common in life.

I met so many people from diverse places and backgrounds, however, the most common comment I got when people first met me while I was in England was "you have such a cute American" accent. I don't know why but it made me laugh and overall made all my interactions feel lighter and more comfortable. I had such an amazing time on campus, exploring Exeter, and seeing what England has to offer. Not as many Americans pick the UK for a study abroad location, it just is not as popular for some reason. However, I would like to argue that coming to Exeter is not about beans on toast but about the student, staff, environment, and much more. I had the time of my life in England, went on lots of amazing adventures, met amazing people through societies, classes, and international events, learned and grew as a person, also met my best friend, and didn't want to leave at the end of the semester. There was not a single second in my study abroad that did not feel like an adventure, from the time I stepped foot in Bristol, to having strangers helping through the London underground and tubes late at night on my way back to America!

Going abroad was, undoubtedly, what I needed to start becoming the best version of myself. The University of Exeter is a fantastic campus with a plethora of societies to join. Before studying abroad, I really kept to myself at school, but I was determined to make the most of it, and I opened myself up and joined so many organizations — from the Body Society for work out classes, to the Harry Potter society to do scavenger hunts. I found myself not only being more willing to interact with others, but having these interactions became so much easier for me to do. I, a proud introvert, suddenly felt so much less awkward starting conversations with strangers. I was in a new environment, and— while that is scary— Exeter is a wonderful place to sit and ponder those emotions. Coming from a non-walkable city, there is nothing I loved more than spending time with myself at the quayside, or being able to walk from my dorms in the middle of town to anywhere in the city. As a writer, it allowed me to truly observe the world around me, and how I wanted to put it to the page. I left Exeter with nothing but kind things to say. Every student and teacher and local that I met was absolutely lovely, and there are many that I still keep in touch with and cherish dearly. This is a journey that I cannot recommend enough.

I loved my experience over at Exeter. It was my first time in uk so I was super excited. Exeter was a university town which I felt very safe. The weather wasn’t the best but I met a whole bunch of cool people from all over the country. I met most of them through different club/organization. I also met some nice people from my dorm, which was a private dorm near the university. I’m still in touch with some of the people I met. I even met up with some in Paris, Seoul, London, and Manchester.

Studying at the University of Exeter was an incredible experience that truly changed me. I met people from so many different cultural backgrounds and got to immerse myself in a completely new part of the world. That time abroad helped me grow in so many ways; the independence and new experiences were so worth it. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of Chicago and spending time in the quieter towns of Exeter, Cornwall, and Newquay was honestly refreshing. The six months I spent outside my comfort zone, discovering new passions, and creating unforgettable memories will last me a lifetime. I loved my time there so much that I’m already planning to return in February 2026!

My time at the University of Exeter is something that I will never forget. I not only loved the classes and professors there, but the students were so warm and welcoming. I lived in student accommodation on campus, and it was so awesome. I was in a flat with other international students and I wouldn't have had it any other way. Going to Exeter for an entire semester after never leaving the country before was not only terrifying, but so rewarding. I met so many people, from so many different countries who I would’ve never encountered unless I took that leap to go abroad by myself. Yes, change is scary, but so is staying the same! I was not only integrated in the culture of the university I was living at, but I also got the opportunity to travel to multiple different countries other than the United Kingdom.

Studying abroad at the University of Exeter ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve made in college. I knew going in that I’d get the chance to study international security from a different angle, but actually being there changed the way I look at the world. It was refreshing to step outside the U.S. bubble and see how another country talks about the same global issues. Hearing things explained from a British and European perspective made me rethink a lot of assumptions I didn’t even know I had. My classes were probably the biggest part of that. The way professors approached foreign policy felt different—less U.S.-centric, obviously, but also more historical and strategic in a way that I hadn’t experienced before. Conversations that back home would revolve around American interests were suddenly framed around the UK’s role and responsibilities. It pushed me to think more broadly, and honestly made me better at understanding how different actors see the same event in completely different ways. That shift alone made the whole experience worth it. Life on campus was easy to settle into. Exeter has this calm, comfortable atmosphere where you can focus on what you’re there to do without feeling overwhelmed. People were friendly, the city was manageable, and the university’s support system made everything straightforward. It didn’t take long before it felt like a place I belonged, even if only temporarily. One of the highlights of the semester was using my April break to travel. Being based in the UK made it ridiculously easy to hop around Europe, and getting to see different countries and cultures in person added so much to what I was learning. It’s one thing to discuss European politics in class, but it hits differently when you’re actually standing in those places. The travel made everything feel real and added a layer of experience you simply can’t get from reading or lectures. Living abroad for a few months also forced me to become more independent. Figuring out transportation, adjusting to new routines, and navigating life in a different country made me more confident and adaptable. It’s the kind of growth you don’t really notice until you’re looking back on it. Overall, my time at the University of Exeter gave me exactly what I hoped for: a broader perspective, a stronger sense of independence, and an experience that genuinely shaped the way I think about international security. I’m really grateful I chose Exeter, and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to see the world from a different angle and push themselves a bit. It was a meaningful experience for me, and I’m glad I had the chance to be there.

My experience at UoE was incredible!! Exeter is a beautiful and historic town with tons of coffee shops, pubs, shopping, and clubs. It’s a very fun place to be a student! I loved my English classes, and they accommodated my schedule to give me Fridays off so I could travel!

I had such a great time at Lite Regal Education Summer School 2025 The Intensive English course really helped my English improve a lot in such a short time. I also met so many new friends from different countries everyone was super kind and friendly.

Studying in Barcelona had been a dream! I took classes in Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation, and Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. My 7 weeks in that paradise were filled with exploration, inspiration, and so much fun. From amazing people to the delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture to the colorful culture, Spain should be at the top of the must-visit countries list. My favorite activity, besides spending my day at the beach, was wandering around the city without a map and being amazed by the beauty hidden in every corner of Barcelona. Thanks to the Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage class, I learned even more about this impressive history and culture. CIS helped me through every step of adapting to studying and living in Barcelona. They planned fun events for us, such as various tours in famous parts of Barcelona, beach picnic and volleyball, wine tasting, tours to towns in Spain, and cooking classes. I stayed at Aparto Pallars, which is conveniently located near the metro station, from which you can take the metro anywhere. I'm so grateful for this experience, and I'm definitely willing to go back to Barcelona or any other program with CIS!

I really enjoyed and appreciated my time at the University of Exeter. My time there was meaningful, educational and personally enriching. I had the opportunity to engage with a diverse academic community, explore new perspectives through challenging coursework, and develop a deeper understanding of both my field of study and myself. Beyond academics, I had the opportunity to travel and explore England and made lasting friendships by joining the polo team and neuroscience society. The supportive environment and beautiful campus also contributed to a truly unforgettable year abroad.

It has been a fantastic experience that gave me the chance to speak English and to visit a foreign country. I became friend with two British guys I will keep in touch with. Moreover, I've had the opportunity to meet students from different parts of the world. I found the University absolutely amazing, with lots of spaces for students, new and very large rooms where to stay, and lots of cute pubs inside the University. The atmosphere of the British environment is like in the Harry Potter's films: magic and particular.

During the Fall 2021 semester, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at the University of Reading in England. Although the journey to get there was long and marked by a year of deferral due to the pandemic, the experience was well worth the wait and ultimately became one of the most enriching chapters of my life. From the moment I began university, I knew I wanted to study abroad. When the time finally arrived, I was beyond excited, ready to embrace the unexpected. I chose England not only because I had family there but also because, from a young age, I envisioned spending an extended period immersed in its culture. After attending a study abroad fair during my freshman year, I gathered brochures from various programs and explored my options. Eventually, I came across USAC, which offered affordable opportunities and access to reputable universities in the UK. Despite there being only four program locations in England, I ultimately chose Reading for its proximity to popular destinations, beautiful green campus, and highly regarded business school, which aligned with my academic goals. Looking back, I couldn’t be happier with my choice. One of the highlights of preparing for the semester was connecting with fellow students ahead of time. A USAC participant reached out before the semester began and organized a group chat for everyone attending the Reading program. Meeting other students virtually before arriving made the housing process smoother and helped me transition more comfortably. One of the most rewarding aspects of studying at Reading was the incredible diversity on campus. I met students from all over the world, which not only enriched my cultural perspective but also made everyday interactions exciting and educational. From trying new foods and getting tips from local students to embracing unique cultural experiences, I made it a point to immerse myself fully. One of my most memorable experiences was a 14-mile hike along the English coastline, organized by the USAC program director. It was both challenging and breathtaking, and I still cherish the sense of accomplishment I felt. Another highlight was sharing cultural traditions with friends - my American peers and I made a classic dessert to share with our British friends, who in turn treated us to a homemade British meal. These exchanges made our friendships even more meaningful. The fast and efficient public transportation system and Reading’s central location made exploring the UK incredibly easy. I visited Oxford, just a 20-minute journey away, where I toured the historic university that inspired the Harry Potter films. A weekend trip to Snowdonia National Park in Wales left me in awe of its beauty; I’ll never forget encountering three rainbows in one day while exploring the park and nearby villages. During Reading Week, we went to Edinburgh, Scotland - a trip filled with so much joy. As the semester came to an end, I found it hard to believe it was over. The experience had exceeded my expectations in every way. I made lifelong friends, explored new places, and embraced every opportunity that came my way. My time at the University of Reading left me more independent, open-minded, and eager for future adventures. Thanks to the USAC community’s continued support, my dream of living abroad didn’t end with my semester in England. Four years later, it’s now my reality. Studying abroad transformed me, giving me skills, perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime.

I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad with CIS Abroad in Thailand during the fall of 2024, and I can confidently say that it was an experience of a lifetime. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to broaden their horizons. The on-site staff were exceptional, offering unwavering support throughout the entire journey. Their dedication truly made a difference. The cultural richness of Thailand is something I’ll never forget. Thanks to CIS Abroad, I was able to explore countless temples, enjoy local cuisine, and visit beautiful islands and vibrant cities. One of the program’s standout features is its encouragement for students to travel and immerse themselves in new experiences. The staff not only helped prepare us for academics but also ensured we felt confident navigating the country independently. This experience reshaped my perspective on the world. I had the privilege of meeting people from diverse backgrounds, which allowed me to learn and grow in ways I never expected. I also gained a sense of confidence that I didn’t know I needed, thriving in an unfamiliar environment where communication was often challenging due to language barriers. CIS Abroad goes above and beyond to support its students. From teaching about local culture to offering academic assistance (specific to Thailand), they foster an environment of growth and opportunity. Their consistent communication throughout the semester was invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend CIS Abroad. It’s more than just an academic program—it’s a transformative experience that will empower you to truly live your best life while exploring the world.

If I had to describe my study abroad experience in one word, it would be extraordinary. It was no question that I wanted to study abroad. Ever since my mom told me endless stories about her experience in college, I knew I needed to follow in her footsteps and become worldly. When it came to making a decision on where I wanted to go, London was my top choice. I had been to Europe before but never England. London always fascinated me with its dynamic cultural backgrounds and its plethora of entertainment. Once the location was settled, I then chose to go with API. During my application process, API was extremely helpful in assisting me with any questions or concerns I had. They helped make the application process easier and less stressful. API made my arrival to London very easy as they gave me clear instructions prior to my flight over. My Resident Director was also extremely approachable which made my adjustment to London seamless. I made amazing friends from API who I was fortunate enough to travel with during the semester. I also made great friends in my classes and am so glad they got to expose me to their ways of life in London. I went to London with an open mind and am extremely fortunate that I was able to expand my horizons. Going abroad taught me that it is so much more than attending classes and doing school work. I learned self reliance and gained so much confidence within myself. I cannot wait to bring back the knowledge I have obtained and share it with other students who want to go abroad and have the experience of a lifetime.

I did my study abroad with API in 2021 as regular covid was dying down and before omicron kicked in. There were some things changed because of the pandemic but they took a lot of precautions and I felt very safe doing my study abroad with them. I loved every second of it. They have a good amount of group activities where you can get to know other people but a great balance of free time outside of your courses to explore. I was able to do so much in the few months I was there and as soon as I left decided I needed to move back. I was accepted into grad school in London this year. This program gave me the opportunity to feel out a new place and learn to love it while having a support system of people familiar with the area. It absolutely changed my life for the better.

I did the London College of Fashion study abroad experience and it was the best summer of my life!!! API was extremely helpful in everything from getting off the plane at Heathrow to my last week in London, API made England feel like my home away from home!!!! I loved every second of it and was able to fully immerse myself into the new culture in England. API was there every step of the way planning fun events and making sure I was taken care of the whole time! They showed us the ropes of the tube and took us on tours all over London and even cities and towns outside of London! I seriously could not have asked for a better summer!

I love studying in South Korea! It was a bit of a culture shock when I arrived as this trip was a lot of firsts for me, like my first plane ride, time in an airport, and trip outside the country! The sunrises are beautiful, and the Cherry Blossom season is one of a kind. As a picky eater, Korea helped me find more foods to try and experiences I liked. If I had to do something different, I would travel more independently and get lost through exploring. The biggest advice I have is to give it a fair shot and do it. There will be moments when you'll get frustrated with not knowing what to expect, but take those in stride and be patient with yourself.