Sustainable Development Study Abroad Programs in South America

Studying abroad in Zagreb, Croatia, was one of the most transformative experiences of my undergraduate journey. As a Biology major on the pre-medical track at Spelman College, I wanted an experience that would challenge me academically, immerse me in a different culture, and allow me to explore medicine beyond the traditional classroom setting. Zagreb gave me all of that and so much more. During my time abroad, I had the opportunity to participate in clinical shadowing at KBC Sestre Milosrdnice, where I spent much of my time observing cardiology and cardiovascular procedures, learning about patient care, and understanding how healthcare professionals collaborate in a hospital setting. One of my most memorable experiences was observing the medical team's response to a complication during a cardiac stent procedure. Witnessing the level of precision, communication, and critical thinking required in that moment strengthened my interest in cardiovascular medicine and helped solidify my aspiration to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. However, my experience was about much more than medicine. Choosing Zagreb was intentional. I wanted to travel somewhere unfamiliar, where I would have to step outside my comfort zone, navigate cultural differences, and become more independent. From learning basic Croatian phrases to exploring the city, connecting with my roommates, and experiencing everyday life in a new country, each day taught me something valuable about adaptability and confidence. As a first-generation college student and a Black woman pursuing a career in medicine, this opportunity also reminded me of the importance of representation and making international experiences accessible to students from all backgrounds. Studying abroad is not limited to students majoring in international studies or foreign languages. STEM students can also find programs that complement their academic interests and professional goals. My advice to anyone considering studying abroad is to research your options, ask questions, and remain open to destinations you may not have initially considered. Some of the most meaningful opportunities come from choosing experiences that challenge your expectations. I returned from Zagreb with more than memories and photographs. I returned with a clearer understanding of the physician I hope to become, greater confidence in my ability to navigate unfamiliar environments, and a deeper appreciation for the global nature of healthcare. If I had the opportunity to choose again, I would choose Zagreb every single time. This experience did not simply allow me to explore another country; it helped me discover a new direction for my future.

great experience; wonderful interaction with students from all over the world . I would recommend this program to anyone interested in learning/improving their knowledge of Spanish. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in improving or learning how to speak Spanish.

Nous avons vécu une excellente expérience de stage grâce à l’association Mente Argentina. Ils nous ont accompagnés à chaque étape de notre projet : organisation du voyage, aide pour trouver un hôpital afin d’effectuer notre stage infirmier, et soutien tout au long de notre séjour. En plus de l’aspect professionnel, l’association a également organisé plusieurs repas dans différents restaurants de Buenos Aires, ce qui nous a permis de découvrir la culture locale et de rencontrer des habitants. Grâce à leur professionnalisme, leur disponibilité et leur bienveillance, notre expérience a été à la fois enrichissante sur le plan professionnel et humain. Nous recommandons vivement Mente Argentina à toute personne souhaitant réaliser un stage à l’étranger en toute sérénité.

We had a fantastic time and learned so much. The teaching and service were excellent. We are coming back again. We had a life changing experience! During this trip we me so many wonderful people. The city is lovely and the country is full of wonderful animals and natural vistas. Doug and Di

Studying abroad in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands was a once-in-a-lifetime, life changing experience. As a biology major, I was looking to gain more knowledge and hands on experience with nature in other areas of the world. Getting to visit the Amazon Rainforest and staying in the Galápagos Islands fulfilled these desires! The courses I took exposed me to new material and were much more hands on than my courses at my home university. In fact, we spent more than half of our class time in the field in some of our courses. Besides the biological aspect, I had wanted to learn Spanish and experience life in another culture/country and Ecuador was perfect for both of these things! The people in both Quito and the islands were friendly and patient as I practiced my Spanish. As for the university and program staff, everyone was super approachable and there to help us adjust to a new life and environment. This experience taught me so many good lessons and I learned so much about my future aspirations. If you are looking for a study abroad program that is both culturally and biologically diverse, this is the program for you!

I would be likely to recommend CIEE Study Abroad for the incredible opportunities they offer students to immerse themselves in new countries and cultures. However, it is important to note that each program is supported by different staff members, so the community and experience can vary depending on the specific country you choose.

I have always wanted to study abroad. Additionally, I have always wanted to be a wildlife biologist and do field research. Furthermore, The Galapagos and The Amazon have been at the top of my “Bucket List” for my whole life. The fact that my first field research opportunity in my life was at both of these locations is mind boggling.

I was going on a semester abroad through out the organisation Mente Argentina in Buenos Aires. Since the beginning I had really good and fluent contact with Mente. They helped me a lot with figuring out my specific situation which I really value and appreciate. The reponses always came quite quick and have been detailed. I arrived with a good feeling in Buenos Aires. Few minutes after my arrival, a worker from Mente showed up and gave me a starter kit, with a Sim Card, a guide and a cash exchange which made my start really easy. For any matters or upcoming problems Mente has been available and fixed them quite quickly. Through the good network of Mente, I quickly made friends and had the opportunity to be part of a language school and my university programm. Mente organised multiple events every week. The events have been quite interesting and were definetly a lot of fun! Since today I am grateful that I met so many people and good friends through Mente. With their helpful and open attitude the people in the Mente Team became good friends as well. I will definetly recommend anybody to benefit from the organisation Mente Argentina, especially if a semester abroad in the city of Buenos Aires sounds interesting :)

It encapsulates the essence of my short-term study away program in Iceland on Sustainable Energy and Innovation, transcending geographical boundaries to embrace a rich tapestry of cultures and knowledge. It's a narrative of personal and academic growth, showcasing the transformative power of global exploration on one's perspective and understanding of Environment and Energy. I highly recommend this program.

I had such an incredible experience with CIEE! Between the program coordinators and instructors, easy application process, and communication, I was very happy with my experience with the program in Spain.

I thought the program was incredibly well run and versatile. Our advisors were super helpful and so passionate about what they do. Also, the pairing with host families was so well run. I loved the program!

I had a lovely time here, although it was not without flaws. The amenities were not great especially considering how much we paid to be here. The company guilt tripped and body shamed us. But I made innumerable new friends and had experiences that I will cherish forever.

Very nice experience, learned a lot. People I’ve met here are now friends I will still be in contact with. The internship was where I learned new skills and networked with people within the fashion industry and got inspired by being here abroad

Tremendous staff. Environment is like none other and they accommodate well. For Seville, the city has been tremendous and CIEE gives you a proper introduction to this magnificent city. Whether an intern or a student during one of the sessions, you can get along with everyone and overcome the anxieties of a new city

I would be very likely to recommend CIEE Study Abroad to a friend because this program gives you many opportunities to explore the city you are in as well as the surrounding areas. All of the employees are very kind people who will be their to uplift and support the students who are abroad.

I attended a small-group class in Spanish as a beginner with basic-level in order to communicate while travelling in South America. Therefore I joined Maximo Nivel I San Jose for 3 weeks. At the weekends I explored Costa Rica with its beautiful beaches, volcanos and the huge bio diversity of its national parks. I learned quickly the most important expressions and questions in Spanish but also had a lot of fun at class with my classmates and the teachers which teached us Spanish also by using games and connecting the classes with our own experiences we made in Costa Rica. I can definitely recommend Maximo Nivel and also its location in San Jose as it is centrally located, which makes it the perfect location for exploring whole Costa Rica.

I spent the last 2 weeks studying Medical Spanish in Costa Rica at Maximo Nivel. The staff here has been super supportive from start to finish. They are able to turn and anxiety provoking process into a smooth experience. I was picked up from the airport on the day of arrival and taken to Maximo nivel. We had an orientation which was super helpful and then taken to our host family. The host family accommodations were fantastic. Great food and coffee. The host family was super inviting. It was clean. The other students were super friendly. Spanish classes were fantastic as well. I do think that these classes will help me treat spanish speaking patients in the future.

I enjoyed every second of this program. From the online learning course with Professor Ortega to the field trips and adventures within Peru. I was nervous to go on this trip and to even apply for the program, but the team at TGP was great at connecting me with alumni and answering all of my questions. Once I began this program I learned I had nothing to worry about! I felt safe the whole trip and the entire team was so welcoming and full of positive energy. I wouldn't go back to change a single thing. Although maybe things did not go as planned, like my suitcase not arriving with me, I had so much fun, and Melissa and TGP partners were assisting me with that issue to make sure that I had everything I would need. They really care a lot about you and want to make sure you are having a great time! I definitely learned some valuable life and work skills on this program that I will take with me where ever I go.

It’s so hard to put into words how incredible of an experience this program was. It was the beautiful combination of sustainability education, food and culture immersion, adventure, and community involvement. Everyday was incredible and filled with incredible activities, food, and people. I met so many cool people with diverse backgrounds yet a common passion for the environment. Definitely recommend the program to anyone interested.

I'd been wanting to travel with the GREEN Program for a long time and I have to say it was truly the best adventure I've ever experienced in my life. The GREEN Team is really communicative, helpful, and present from the time you sign up to even after your travel. I felt really comfortable travelling abroad by myself because I knew the team had my back the whole way. The program is dynamic and each day’s itinerary is unique and a surprise. Now, I don’t want to spoil any surprises for future travelers, but I promise every day is guaranteed to be packed to the brim with fun (and fantastic food). We took day trips to witness first-hand sustainable change and development in Peru as well as different climate and industry issues. The class was engaging and discussion based – I really liked this because of the many complexities that come with water resource management in Peru. Every hotel and hostel we stayed at was comfortable and our guide was very accommodating. I definitely made invaluable memories on this trip and I strongly recommend this program to anyone who wants to experience a new country, meet incredible people, develop field skills, and have the adventure of a lifetime!