Summer Study Abroad Programs in Granada, Spain

From the moment I arrived at ISA Granada, the program’s academics and immersive cultural events made every day an adventure. The Spanish courses at the Universidad de Granada were great, and all programming outside of class was guided by the dedicated team of Lorena Herrera, Ángel Garzón Peña, and Marisa, whose support and local insights unlocked hidden corners of the city. Beyond the classroom, I explored Granada’s Moorish monuments, witnessed passionate flamenco performances in the Albacin with the group, and had a lot of fun at the excursions to Toledo’s medieval streets, Madrid’s art hubs, the Alpujarra’s mountain villages, Almuñécar’s beaches, and had the most amazing spring break in Morocco. Also, the food was terrific and had great spots around every corner. All architecture and every meal celebrated Granada’s rich tapestry of Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences, from fragrant tagines and almond-based sweets to stews, tapas, and fresh seafood. Living with my host family felt like I was at home in Spain. Their warm hospitality, home-cooked feasts, and late-night conversations turned moments of uncertainty into stories of laughter and resilience. ISA Granada didn’t just improve my Spanish; it showed me how to embrace the unfamiliar, listen deeply across cultures, and forge connections that transcend borders. I returned home more culturally aware and inspired to channel my problem-solving and adaptability skills into my career.

My semester in Granada was an experience that I will never forget. The program itself was thoughtfully designed and well-organized. The planned excursions were engaging and and gave me the chance to explore Granada and integrate myself with the city. From walking through the Alhambra to discovering smaller neighborhoods and local markets, I was constantly in awe of the architecture and the history that shrouds every inch of the city. The people also made the experience even better. The ISA Granada staff: Marisa, Lorena, and Ángel were so warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about the city. Their energy was infectious and they created a supportive environment that made it that much easier to adjust to living in Granada. I also formed lasting friendships with both American and international peers while living in Granada. We supported each other, learned together, and shared so many memorable experiences. Overall, my semester in Granada was a life-changing experience. I left not only with stronger Spanish skills, but also with unforgettable memories, meaningful friendships, and a deep appreciation for the history, culture, and people of the city. I would recommend ISA Abroad in Granada to anyone looking for cultural immersion in a gem of a city.