Journalism & Broadcasting Study Abroad Programs in Thailand

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!

The Khon Kaen USAC program offers everything you could want in a study abroad experience—immersive culture, hands-on internships, engaging classes, and unforgettable memories. As someone studying abroad for the first time, it was an opportunity I couldn’t have passed up.

Studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN was truly a life-changing experience that I will cherish forever. It pushed me far out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. Living in a completely different culture made me more adaptable, and it opened my eyes to the beauty of diversity. I not only gained valuable academic knowledge but also learned so much about myself and the world around me. As a friend and daughter, I became more patient, understanding, and empathetic after interacting with people from all over the world. I learned how to embrace differences, listen more attentively, and create meaningful connections. I became a better listener, which made me appreciate the relationships I have with my friends and family even more. This journey also sparked my love for travel. I now feel more confident and excited about exploring new places, trying new things, and immersing myself in unfamiliar environments. I now have a greater sense of independence and self-assurance that I can take with me throughout my life. Academically, my experience in Thailand motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies. I realized the importance of education, especially when it comes to understanding the world from a global perspective. I became more focused, driven, and determined to make the most out of my academic opportunities. Most importantly, studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand transformed me into a more worldly and open-minded individual. I came back home with a deeper understanding of global issues and the unique perspectives of people around the world. It truly changed my life in ways that go beyond what words can express, and I will forever be thankful for this incredible experience. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand – it’s an experience you will never forget.

Studying abroad in Thailand was genuinely the best decision I ever made. If you are looking for an experience completely different from what everyone else is doing...go to Thailand! Almost every single weekend I was able to travel to different places within Southeast Asia. I went to a total of six countries while I was there and it was actually so easy to travel and get around. From planes to trains to buses to ferries, all modes of transportation are so close and can take you wherever you need to go! Also, the university you attend isn't placed at the heart of the city so you have the chance to escape the busyness every once in a while! No, your apartment will not have a kitchen, but that is never a problem! First of all, it's cheaper to eat out than it is to cook in Thailand and secondly, you are a 30 second walk from a bunch of authentic food spots. All factors considered, I would recommend studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN any day!

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.

I studied abroad in Khon Kaen, Thailand, for a semester from February to June 2024 with the USAC program. I chose Khon Kaen because of my deep interest in Thai language, culture, and food, and I was excited to immerse myself in an entirely new environment. Academics: The academic structure in Khon Kaen was a bit different from what I was used to. All my classes were three hours long, held once a week, as opposed to the typical 50-minute classes I’m accustomed to back home. While I didn’t love the longer class durations, I adjusted to it over time. The courses were taught in English, which made it easier to follow along, although it was challenging at times to fully engage with the material, especially since I was balancing a completely new environment and culture. Cultural Experience: Living in Thailand gave me the chance to fully immerse myself in the local culture. I was able to practice some of the Thai language I had learned and enjoyed participating in local traditions and activities. One of the highlights was my USAC program pairing me with a Thai buddy, who helped guide me through the country and introduced me to local spots. I’m deeply grateful for this connection because, as a foreign student, making local friends can be challenging, and I sometimes struggled to connect with others. Accommodation: I stayed in a dorm shared with both Thai and international students. While it was convenient, I didn’t have as much interaction with others as I would have liked. I spent a lot of time in my dorm alone, but my Thai buddy helped alleviate some of the loneliness by inviting me out and showing me around. Social Life & Travel: Exploring Khon Kaen was an exciting experience. On weekends, I would visit the night markets, which offered an array of food, snacks, clothing, accessories, and more. I also frequented local gyms, malls, and restaurants. Thanks to the guidance of the friends I made along the way, navigating these places was relatively smooth. I was able to experience Thai cuisine firsthand and enjoyed tasting a wide variety of dishes. Although I did make a few friends from my classes and other international students, it was tough to find people with similar interests and vibes. That being said, I was lucky to meet some great individuals who made my time in Khon Kaen much more enjoyable. Challenges: Homesickness was something I struggled with at times. When I felt lonely, I found comfort in video calls with my family, which helped me stay connected with home. I also had moments when I felt out of place, especially since my dorm was often quiet and I was alone. However, my Thai buddy’s regular invitations to hang out made a significant difference, and I’m incredibly thankful for those moments of support. Another challenge I encountered was the heat and humidity, particularly from March to June, as this is Thailand’s summer season. The weather was something to adjust to, and it definitely required a lot of hydration and energy to cope with the constant warmth. Also, for anyone with dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that pork is a staple in Thai cuisine, so it’s helpful to do some research on meal options ahead of time. Advice for Future Students: Learn Basic Local Phrases: Familiarizing yourself with basic Thai phrases can make daily interactions much easier and enrich your experience. Embrace Travel: Take every opportunity to travel around Thailand and the surrounding region. It’s one of the best parts of studying abroad, and there’s so much to explore! Be Prepared for the Heat: Thailand can be hot and humid year-round, especially during the summer months (March to June). Make sure to stay hydrated and pack accordingly. Dietary Considerations: If you have dietary restrictions, do some research about the availability of food options and be mindful of the prevalence of pork in Thai cuisine. Conclusion: Overall, my study abroad experience in Khon Kaen was a memorable one. I had the opportunity to travel internationally for the first time, which was both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. The excitement and positive mindset I maintained helped me navigate the challenges that came my way, and I’m grateful for the ups and downs of the journey. I met incredible friends who supported me throughout my experience, and I look back on my time in Thailand with gratitude. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to immerse themselves in Thai culture and explore Southeast Asia. P.S. A lot of Thai food is spicy.

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.

I learned so much about myself and how we are often products of our environments. Going across the globe where almost everything is different, I realized that in an environment with different social pressures my desires shifted. It made me wonder what makes me me? I learned how to recognize my privilege and reserve my initial reactions to new things. For example, certain foods were shocking to me and would not have considered eating. But some of these foods were staples in this culture and often consumed because they were affordable. Phenomenal learning experience with incredibly supportive and passionate faculty. * Host Country Program Administration On-site administration of your program On site staff are fantastic!! The international college department at Khon Kaen University take care of so many international students mainly from Southeast Asia. They organized so many activities for us including cultural immersion trips, cooking classes, and exploring the Khon Kaen region. * Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? The housing arrangements took some adjusting but I felt very safe and exposure to bugs/critters was an opportunity to grow out of comfort zone. And living on the 5th floor ensured that I got moving at least twice a day!! * Food: Food is delicious in Khon Kaen. Unfortunately vegan options are incredibly limited, if not practically impossible. So flexibility is definitelt important in this program. However I did find vegetarian and some vegan options! * Social & Cultural Integration: How integrated did you feel with the local culture? I felt SO integrated!!! I only knew my 2 classmates from the United States that were from states so far from mine and had such unique perspectives. Otherwise everyone I met was from primarily Southeast Asia! Met people from over 27 countries! The collectivist mindset of society in Thailand made me feel so welcomed and accepted. I never once felt homesick. Students would come introduce themselves on the bus just to be friendly and practice their English. It was truly heart melting just how kind everyone was. * Health Care: How well were health issues addressed during the program? I fortunately didn't need to utilize any healthcare services however there were two hospitals very close by and one we, USAC students, were designated to use. I studied the healthcare system in Thailand and learned what an efficient and high quality system they have. You can find pharmacies on every corner and they are able to prescribe medication for 16 common illnesses on site without visiting a Dr.'s office. Thai traditional massage is also incredibly common and not expensive. The university has a spa! * Safety: I felt incredibly safe in Khon Kaen. Mind you, I rarely was out past 10pm. But my housing had 24 hour security and I never went out alone at night. If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes Absolutely!!! I learned so much about the culture, language, healthcare system, traditional medicine. It was all so new and fascinating. I appreciated the bridge of spiritual and evidence based reasoning of medicinal practices and the integration of both traditional and modern medicine. The respect between faculty and students was remarkable. Faculty actually felt approachable and truly took time to help students. Finances * Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget? (1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) It is incredibly feasible to do this program on a budget! I spent no more than $5-10 on a whole day's worth of food. Cost of living is very low compared to cost of living in the US. Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $35-50 Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Even though everything seems inexpensive, your money still goes fast. So be careful going on shopping sprees. But also, treat yourself! Thailand has the best markets and the most adorable clothes!!! What did you like most about the program? Traditional Thai Medicine Clinic visit International School Field trip Volunteering in Pediatric Cancer wing to sing to children * What could be improved? A little more downtime because it was hard balancing cultural/social opportunities with International School with workload A little more structure in Healthcare in Thailand class * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Just to worry less before I left to Thailand. Its normal to get pretravel nerves but I didn't have anything to worry about!! Also be prepared to bring back a lot of amazing souvenirs!!!

Overall, this program changed my life for the better. Having been born and raised in California, I felt like I had been living in a bubble for most of my life. Everyone falls within the middle or upper-class economic status, is heavily encouraged to go to school, and has access to plenty of career opportunities. Before going to Thailand, I was aware of how lucky and privileged I am, but being able to go abroad gave me such a vital shift in perspective. Seeing how everyone's way of life was centered around family, community, and practicality made me realize how many Americans are consumed by the desire for material excess. Overall, I really feel as though my priorities were set straight by this experience, and being able to make friends with people who come from all different backgrounds totally validated by ability to adapt and expand my horizons.

I was in Bangkok, Thailand studying abroad for my fall 2023 semester. It was such a life changing experience for me. I feel more confident in meeting new people and traveling the world. ISA and TEAN did an amazing job helping me with application process and with all the necessary documents I needed to submit. They answered any questions I had, and made sure I was well prepared before I left the United States. We did a lot of fun excursions when I got to Thailand and I had an amazing group from our program. But there were a few things I had a bit of trouble with. So one of the excursion we did was in Krabi, Thailand. We had just arrived to Bangkok, Thailand and our program director had told us we were leaving for Krabi in 2 days. I felt so unprepared and felt rushed. I wished they would've told us the dates and schedules of excursions beforehand (before we got there), so that each of us can make our travel plans accordingly. And I wished we had more support while we were in Thailand. Our onsite program director was such an amazing person, but sometimes, it's hard to reach them. Especially dealing with VISA renewal was a struggle because we had to do it on our own, more so we couldn't really rely on our onsite program director. And I also thought they would've said our campus wasn't going to be in Bangkok. It was actually in Salaya, so about 40 minutes drive from Bangkok (depending on where you're going). The other students and I from the program had thought that we were going to be studying and living in Bangkok but that was not the case. But of course, there are more pros than cons. These are just a few things I wished we were informed on. But my experience had been so positive that the pros outweigh the cons. I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN and to go to Thailand!

Studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From its vibrant culture to the warm hospitality of the locals, this city has much to offer for students seeking a unique and enriching academic adventure. **Academic Experience:** Bangkok boasts a diverse range of universities and institutions, each offering a variety of courses. I had the opportunity to study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), where the academic curriculum was challenging yet engaging. The faculty was knowledgeable and approachable, fostering a conducive learning environment. The international perspective embedded in the courses allowed me to broaden my understanding of global issues. **Cultural Immersion:** One of the highlights of studying in Bangkok is the rich cultural experience. The city seamlessly blends traditional Thai customs with modern urban living. From exploring ancient temples like Wat Arun to navigating bustling street markets, every corner of Bangkok is infused with cultural significance. Engaging with locals and participating in cultural events provided me with insights into Thai traditions and values. **Adventure and Exploration:** Bangkok is a city of contrasts, offering a plethora of experiences for adventure seekers. Weekends were filled with excursions to nearby islands, jungle treks, and visits to historical sites. The diverse landscapes of Thailand, from pristine beaches to lush jungles, are easily accessible, making it an ideal location for those who crave exploration and adventure. **Culinary Delights:** Thai cuisine is renowned globally, and being in Bangkok allowed me to indulge in its authentic flavors. From street food stalls offering pad Thai to upscale restaurants serving traditional dishes, the culinary scene was a gastronomic delight. Exploring the local markets became a regular part of my routine, introducing me to an array of exotic fruits, aromatic spices, and mouth-watering street food. **Community and Friendships:** The warmth and friendliness of the Thai people contribute significantly to the overall experience. Bangkok's multicultural environment fosters connections with fellow international students as well as locals. The sense of community extended beyond the campus, creating a supportive network that enhanced my time abroad. **Logistical Considerations:** Bangkok's efficient public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, made navigating the city convenient. Affordable living costs, coupled with a wide range of accommodation options, provided flexibility for students with varying budgets. In conclusion, studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand, is an enriching and life-changing experience. The city's dynamic blend of academics, culture, adventure, and culinary delights creates a perfect environment for personal and academic growth. My time in Bangkok will forever be etched in my memory as a chapter of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships.

Coming back to America and fully reflecting on my time abroad I can safely say that this journey has been nothing short of amazing. One of the biggest things I have learned coming back home is that no matter how many pictures or stories I show/tell to my loved ones they will never fully grasp the things I experienced. In order to give a better understanding to those still deciding to travel abroad I wanted to give my honest review so that the decision will be that much easier. For this review I will break it down into three different categories which I have deemed most relevant. First I want to talk about the community and social aspect abroad, Second I will go through what university life was like, and finally I will talk about the cultural side of Thailand. Community and Social Life: Coming to a foreign country like Thailand for the first time there was a lot of anxiety that I felt before I arrived. I worried that I may not make friends, people would not be inclusive, and even feared others may not even like me. However upon arrival all of these fears would be put to rest. The first day I landed I was immediately greeted by those in my TEAN abroad program and everyone was so kind. I met my roommate for the first time and we ended up bonding over sports and video games. The next few days I acquainted myself with the other students from TEAN as we imminently embarked on an included excursion to the province of Krabi for a 5 day trip. This ended up being one of my favorite parts of the experience because it allowed our entire program to get close with one another. We went Kayaking, learned about mangroves, and went on many hikes together. Ultimately this taught me some valuable lessons. The most impactful thing to me was to push outside my comfort zone. There were many times that I did not feel comfortable, like starting a conversation with a random Thai person or jumping off the side of a waterfall. Both of which proved to be so much fun. Throughout the trip I had met so many amazing people that joined me on countless journey’s. One thing became very apparent to me, Thailand is not the most common place to go abroad but there is something about a lot of the students that choose it as a location. They seem so accepting and open which is something that I believe almost everyone has in common. University Experience: The University I Attended was Mahidol University International College. In terms of the campus itself Mahidol was beautiful. It was an extremely large campus however my classes were only in two different buildings that were right next to each other so the walking was fairly easy. There was a brand new main building that had multiple floors and used an eco-friendly architecture that allowed the rain water to fall directly onto the vegetation that surrounded the inside of the complex. The classes were all taught in English which was nice as an American student and many of the teachers and students were super friendly. Something to keep in mind is that in Thailand a large percentage of each grade is reliant upon exams which is a little different than in the states. Overall I really liked the campus and the clubs and community provide a lot of fun activities and events. Cultural Side: In terms of immersion Thailand exceeded my expectations entirely. The food was absolutely incredible. Some of my favorite dishes were pad see ew, pad thai, and green curry. The temples were breathtaking as well. I got to see the king’s palace, sleeping buddha, and the gorgeous white temple which was nothing like i have seen before. There was so much to explore as Thailand had so much to offer. I think that one of the best things about the country is how diverse each experience can be. You can go to the bustling city of Bangkok and try some street food or you can go to the beaches in the south and enjoy relaxing time. The possibilities are seemingly endless. The last thing I wanted to bring up about the culture of Thailand would be the Thai people. Without a doubt the locals were the most friendly people I have ever met. They are always willing to help out foreigners and they are so generous and considerate with everything they do. I remember one time I was trying to get off at a certain stop and one of the Thai people without even asking assisted me and talked to the driver. They call it the land of smiles for a reason and everyone is seemingly so content and happy. Throughout this journey it has taught me a valuable lesson of being happy no matter where I am in life. In America so many people are focused on getting somewhere they are not or getting things they don't have that sometimes we forget to be grateful for what we already possess. This was a very eye opening realization for me and truly encapsulated my time abroad. Although my experience was amazing I know that for some people it can be different. Some things I would recommend before coming abroad to Thailand to maximize the experience would be to have an open mind, live in the moment, and push your comfort zone. If you can be someone that can try these three things the possibilities will be limitless. In conclusion this four month journey has not only provided me with the best experience of my life but has also taught me lessons I will remember for years to come. I highly recommend TEAN abroad and this program for whoever is interested in it as it provides such a good support system especially for those who have never been outside the country. I push anyone who is considering going out of the country after reading this to give Thailand a chance because they won’t regret it.

Studying in Mahidol University International College in Salaya, Thailand through TEAN was truly a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The program provides you with a view of the country that foreigners rarely otherwise scratch the surface of, since you study in the suburbs, conduct activities in the city, and complete orientation and a final trip in the rural north and south of the country. The TEAN program provides enough structure so that you are prepared for the adjustment and have a built-in support network, but leaves you with enough free time to follow your own travel and extracurricular interests. Having a program director who lived in Bangkok also greatly eased the transition, and made searching for medical care, etc. much easier for my few friends who needed those services. I really, truly believe studying in Thailand was the best choice I've ever made.

My experience studying abroad in Thailand was one of the craziest adventures in my life. I had some of the highest highs being able to travel all over Southeast Asia, meeting amazing people, and learning more about the world. I also had some of the hardest moments missing home, adjusting to a completely different culture, and figuring out a new school environment, however even these experiences taught me so much, and every moment made me realize how much I was capable of. My favorite aspect of this trip was being able to see so much of the world, and the moments I had where I knew I would never forget them. I also loved how much guidance we had and trips that were all planned, and a big part of what made this trip possible for me was how affordable thailand is!

Studying abroad in Thailand has completely changed my life. It made me want to explore the world more, and got me out of my comfort zone. I've always had a fear of traveling alone, and always thinking of what could go wrong. But this experience made me realized that those fears are all in my head. When traveling, not everything will go according to your itinerary. But those are what makes exploring fun, because you just have to accept the flaws and go with the flow. That's what adventures are all about, to be flexible. Studying abroad also made me more confident in myself and I was able to put myself out there more. I got the chance to make international friends from all around the world. It's an absolutely amazing experience.

I was hesitant to study abroad for the first time and CIS Abroad exceeded my expectations. CIS Abroad is there to make all steps in your study abroad journey as seamless as possible. The application process is simple and straightforward, and if you have any questions they are always there to help and respond quickly. During the pre-departure meetings, and onsite orientation I knew that I was going to be okay, and this was going to be a journey I would never forget. Arriving in Florence with CIS Abroad, they truly made you feel at home, and the onsite directors were so friendly towards all of us. Without CIS Abroad there to help, my journey would not been of amazing as it was.

Studying abroad in Tokyo, Japan for a month was the most amazing time of my life. I was quite anxious to go to Japan especially since it was going to be my first time leaving the US and flying by myself, however, I received incredible and immense support from the on-site program directors. Being immersed in Japanese culture through program activities like kimono wearing, calligraphy, tea ceremony, and just interacting with locals overall was wonderful. I was able to make friendships with some Japanese students which was so nice because they showed me beautiful places and foods to try. Not only did I make become friends with Japanese students, I also became close with the other study abroad students so I often went out to explore and have tons of fun with them everyday. Waking up everyday in Japan brought so much excitement because there is so much to see and do so I NEVER felt bored. As for Seisen University, the campus I attended in Tokyo, was beautiful and quiet. It was only a short train ride and walk away from my accommodation, so maybe a 20 minute commute. However, it is on a hill so it was quite a workout to walk to campus from the train station especially with the really hot and humid weather during the summer months. Then, the teachers were great! They were really interactive, entertaining, and passionate about what they were teaching. Since it was a summer program that only lasted a month, the courses were very fast paced especially the Japanese language courses. Also, the Japanese students were super friendly and kind and I always enjoyed talking to them and eating lunch with them. It was truly fascinating learning from them and I learning from them about our lives. Overall, I definitely recommend studying abroad with Cis abroad and choosing one of their Japan programs. It was a decision that I was highly doubting before I went but after experiencing it, I have no regrets at all and am very grateful for it. It is an opportunity that I wish everyone to experience.

I loved Thailand so much, I have studied abroad multiple times, and this was my favorite place. I loved the country's beauty; the food and prices were cheap, and the culture was so beautiful. Only 15 of us were in my program, so we got to know each other very well. We also got to make friends with the further study abroad students and the Thai students, who were super friendly and wanted to hang out and make friends with you. Our resident director, Mamiaw, was terrific. She made it feel like she wasn't only our resident director but also our friend; she would go out with us and meet up with us if we were in the city. She took time out of her say to hang out with us, and it made such a big difference because I felt more comfortable talking and asking for help.

The School for International Studies through CIS abroad was the most perfect program for me. The program is three months long which is a little shorter than most programs however it is great for someone who is on trimesters, is nervous about getting homesick, or like myself- wants to travel for a while before their summer job starts. The academic coursework was challenging in a way that was incredibly rewarding. The professors don't give you hours of studying and homework to do because they understand that you are there to travel just as much as you are to take classes. I took several classes on the history of Spain and Barcelona and I learned more than I have from any professor or school because after learning about things like Gaudi's style of architecture we went out into the city and got a first hand experience by seeing things like casa batllo. My professors were so engaging, entertaining, and helpful, I still keep in contact with many of them today. They helped me to learn the rich and diverse history and context of the city I was living in. The CIS staff on sight at SIS was incredibly helpful in getting students involved in the Catalan culture and making us feel comfortable. It can be frustrating trying to get a hold of them before you go abroad for questions but as soon as you step foot in Barcelona the staff is ready to help out any time of the day. Whether it is a safety concern, you are sick and don't know where to go, or you are struggling in your classes the staff at CIS can help put you on the right track. The trips and activities (which are included in the cost of your tuition) are absolutely amazing and everything is paid for. My semester we went on two overnight trips, Sevilla and Zaragoza, where the food, accommodations, and planned activities were all paid for. We also went to the Dali museum, took a cooking class, and went out to dinner with our CIS mentor- all completely paid for by the initial cost of your program. This was absolutely amazing, especially for someone who wanted to experience Spain on a tight budget. As far as housing, I stayed in a shared room/ shared apartment with American students from other programs. This gave me the opportunity to get to know people outside of just the school I was studying at. The apartment I stayed in was in an amazing location and we had everything we needed (washing machine, dishes, bedding, towels). Our apartment was very close to a metro stop however most days I walked about 15 minutes to class to get to know my way around the city better. The CIS on site coordinators were available 24/7 through a cell phone in case of any emergency. I never felt unsafe in my apartment or walking around the city. I also purchased the international health insurance both through my home university and through CIS. I never thought I would need it but when I got sick while traveling outside of Spain, I was happy that I had insurance. The appointments, tests, and medication I received were completely free of charge and I visited a private travelers clinic where they spoke english and I had absolutely no wait time. Overall I think the CIS School for International Studies program in Barcelona is amazing for anyone who wants to travel a ton and get the most out of what you pay for. The only suggestion I would make is that about 2-3 times throughout the semester we had class on Friday. I had wished that our overnight trips were on the weeks where we had class on Friday because it was kind of difficult to travel out of the country on those weekends with Friday class. I ended up staying in Barcelona those weekends though which was a great decision so that I could take some time to get to know the city I was staying in and experience the weekend night life in Barna.

Costa Rica was truly the experience of a lifetime for me. As someone who is an environmental science major, this country spoke so near and dear to my heart as they are very environmentally oriented overall and really are striving to keep their forests thriving. I had the sweetest host mom, an absolutely amazing site director, great university staff and I made some of the greatest friends on my trip, not to mention the vast number of breathtaking places I got to visit during my summer in Costa Rica. I have gained such an appreciation for the Spanish language and can speak more now than I ever could before! And I truly fell in love with the Costa Rican culture - Pura Vida!