European Studies Study Abroad Programs in Seville, Spain

Studying abroad in Seville, Spain, was one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career. As a low-income college student, I never thought studying abroad would be possible for me, even though spending a semester in Spain had been a dream of mine since the beginning my freshman year of high school. Before coming to college, opportunities like this felt completely out of reach. Thanks to scholarships, financial aid, and support from my university and CIEE, I was able to turn that dream into reality. Living in a homestay was one of the highlights of my experience. It gave me the opportunity to experience Spanish culture firsthand, improve my Spanish skills, and learn what daily life in Spain is really like. The academics were engaging, and the support provided by CIEE was excellent from the application through the end of the program. One challenge I faced was healthcare, since I receive a monthly medication. It was little difficult to make sure I had enough before leaving, and I ended up needing to get a dose while abroad and had to pay for it out of pocket. This created some additional stress, but the staff were supportive whenever I needed help navigating challenges like this. I also found making friends difficult at times, but this is something I have always struggled with. Even so, I was able to form a meaningful friendship during my semester abroad. Overall, studying in Seville helped me grow academically, personally, and culturally. One finally piece of advice: If you are currently an undergraduate student who thinks studying abroad is financially our of reach., don't count yourself out. I once felt the same way and I encourage you to explore your opinions. I never thought I would have the chance to do something like this, and it ended up being one of the best experiences of my life.

Being a premed student I was at first quite hesitant about applying for a study abroad since I was not very sure how it would work with my science classes. That was until I came across Spanish Study Abroad's page and saw that they offered a wide range of classes and programs that could too work for science majors! My first time applying was for the Spring of 2025 for which I was able to take both Spanish classes and do an internship organized by the Spanish Study Abroad branch in Seville at IENSA (a neurosurgery and neurology center in Seville). My second time, was the Spring of 2026 and with how well the program is organized, I was able to do my last Biochemistry class at University Pablo de Olavide. Long story short, the first semester abroad was honestly one of the best decisions of my life and definitely the best decision for my Spanish since between learning in the program and engaging with the very friendly Andalucian people, I successfully moved a whole level up in my Spanish in just a couple months. Additionally, Seville is culturally rich and I love that the program makes it a point to explain and share the wonderful culture and cusine with us! From this experience, I built my confidence and knowledge in Spanish and made very important connections with both locals and in the Spanish healthcare system. I loved it so much, I did the study abroad TWICE and I can confidently say it was 100% worth it!!!