Comments

"I signed up to go to Costa Rica without any idea about what I wanted to major in, or how I was going to spend the next few years of my life. I studied topics I had not thought about before, and talked to people with new, fresh ideas. Being immersed in a culture totally different than mine helped me to better understand others. I decided on a major and adapted to a much simpler and gentler life style than I had known previously. In order to learn and grow, we need to put ourselves out in the world and experience different things. Studying abroad helped me not only to better understand others and how they live, but myself and how I want to live."

"Studying abroad in Seville, Spain has been and still is truly an unforgettable self developing experience - as cliche as that may sound it is true- and I am proof of that, as I´m sure the majority of students who go abroad are as well. Everything from taking classes at the breathtaking University of Seville (I highly recommend) or even at the institution there is one aspect that is shared and that is the enthusiasm within the classes of the professors and students all wanting to learn and yes even the professors are there to learn about our culture. After your classes you go to a local, humble or if you want a large cafe/bar and engage in a conversation with a local about everything from futbol to current events around the area -many time contrary to what many believe many of the local Spaniards want to converse with foreigners, so just go for it!- trust me,doing this is not only a boost for your confidence but a very valuable course in the infamous Universidad De la Vida (University of Life). Then there is the social scene at night which is incredible but takes time to get used to keeping up with the long hours, but incredible for sure as you will find out.

Finally, I know I can´t even come close to write about everything I want to say about Seville in a paragraph, but one again it is an ideal time to truly grow up and culture yourself and not only motivation to perfect every aspect of the Spanish language and culture but also a push to study in other countries in the near future. Just as long as you take everything in with a learning state of mind and take advantage of everything the program has to offer, your time abroad will be one that will never leave your mind."

Diego F. Lopez
Seville, Spain, Spring 08

"I´m doing great! better than great! Already dreading coming back to the US. My family is so sweet and I´m happy that I´m not with a residencia..." " I´m having such an enchanting time that no words could possibly do justice. One problem is getting ahold of a computer. They only have 2 in the school and they´re usually occupied so sorry for this delay. Hope all is well in NJ."

"It´s one of the most beautiful cities I´ve ever seen. At night I sometimes believe I´m living in a jewelry box while looking at all the illuminated buildings and bridges. But all the precious stones in the world couldn´t measure up to something as grand as Sevilla! I pinch myself at least once a day and so far I haven´t woken up (Thank God!). And to be quite honest, I´m already dreading coming home.
Regards from Heaven."

Larissa Wadden, Seville, Spain
Fall 07

My classes are very interesting and exciting. The Art of Rome class turned out to be lessons through excursions. Every Wed. we meet in the historic center at a different location. It is amazing how much the professor knows and can remember all at once as we walk through the city. She can explain all of the history before, leading up to, and during the construction of a particular building and explain the building material and how it reflects what the Roman Republic was trying to say to the people and neighboring nations through the architecture.

I've been able to do some traveling of my own too. I've visited Capri and Ischia. I like Ischia a bit more because there was more of a European, Italian feel to it then when in Capri with all the tourists. I did enjoy the stunning site of the Grotto Azzuro and Faraglioni, though in the sea off the coast of Capri. I've visited the Amalfi Coast and toured around Napoli as well. I've seen Florence Briefly, but plan to definitely return shortly and see the Uffizzi gallery, the Duomo and some other beautiful sites. I also plan to visit Venezia, Greece, and Paris.