Program Reviews

I studied at Kyoto University of Foreign Studies in Kyoto Japan. During my time there, CIS helped with anything and everything I needed. If they couldn't help, then they found the people that could. The school itself was the best I've ever attended. The facilities were up to date, the staff were helpful, the teachers were patient and knowledgeable. The dorms that I was placed in were more like small apartments, complete with their own bathroom and kitchenette. They were small, but very comfortable. As for fun time, there was a lot to do. There were plenty of things to discover, plus CIS prepared their own excursions for us. I met many different people, natives and foreigners alike, and made a lot of great friends. Overall, this was singlehandedly the best experience I've had, and I look forward to the spring semester.

Studying abroad in Stirling, Scotland was the best decision I ever made. The people there are so kind, and the Scottish land is stunning. I felt so supported while there, and I made so many great friends from around the US and the world. The University itself is gorgeous, and the international student staff was great. There are three housing options we were able to choose from. I lived in Alexander Court, which was nice, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend. It was one of the older buildings and was also quite far from the center of campus (about a 20 minute walk). If you can, try to live in Willow Court which is a much more central option. I would also recommend the off-campus housing on Union Street, because you will be right in town and have easy access to grocery stores, nightlife, the train station, and whatever else you may need. I would recommend Stirling to anyone who wants to go abroad!

This program was a lifesaver! My university requires Japanese major students to study abroad for at least one semester, however, I learned that due to complications that they would be only allowing two students to go through the school. Since my best friend Jenny and I wanted to be placed in the same school we decided it would be best to look for a third party program; and I am so glad we chose CISabroad! From the get-go the program was super organized. They had a portal set up so that I could see what paperwork I had to get done and when. Also, I was immediately set up with an advisor that I could get in contact with super easily throughout the whole process (this was extremely helpful when it came time to do visa applications!). Once I got to Japan, they gave us a fun orientation in Tokyo where we got to browse all of the local hotspots and get to know our site director, Jeff (he is amazing!). The whole time that we were there we could contact Jeff at literally any hour and he would get back to us super quickly. He also took us on excursions throughout the trip, like getting to see a Shinto ceremony at a shrine (that was closed only for us!), or feeding deer at Nara! It was absolutely amazing!

My semester in Rome with CIS was easily my favorite semester of college. A year later, I am reminiscing on the incredible experience I embarked on last January. I immediately felt at home even though I was in a different country because of how the program gets you acclimated to your new city and school. What I thought was really cool about CIS was how they incorporate excursions around Rome and Italy with your group to show you the beauty of your new home at no extra cost. The school was great for my interests, which include international relations and business. Rome proved to be a center location with access to all of Italy and abroad, thanks to the easy-to-use train system and multiple airports within the city. Rome is like a second home to me, I can't wait to go back!

I've been a traveler at heart for as long as I can remember, and have always wanted to study abroad before I graduated college. CIS was able to make that a reality when I stumbled upon them in my school's study abroad fair last year- before I knew it, I was studying at Kyoto University of Foreign Studies in Kyoto, Japan!
From orientation in Tokyo to adjusting to life in beautiful Kyoto, this experience was really once in a lifetime. Classes are intensive and challenging regardless of what level you're placed in (I knew none of the language before arriving), and on top of other classes, you take 3 hours of comprehensive language every day. Despite the initial frightening language barrier with professors and basically everywhere else, the payoff was completely worth it- after 3 months, we went through an entire text book, and learned about 2 years worth of material in that time!
The experience completely changed me, as I now want to continue studying the language post graduation, and maybe even work in the country. Overall, the site directors put in their utmost effort to get everyone in the program involved in the local culture, and I had some unforgettable experiences and excursions through CIS and the school (Arashiyama, Nara, and even a dinner with a Geiko!), and enough time to take some major solo trips of my own. :) CIS Semester in Kyoto was hands down the most special experience I've had in university, and recommend it to anyone who's up for an adventure of their own!

I spent my Fall 2017 semester in Aix-en-Provence, France where I took 4 classes and had a 1-credit internship. The professors were amazing and the internship coordinator was so helpful. I learned more than I thought possible and have so much more experience to take with me as I enter the workforce soon. Studying abroad was the best experience of my life! Even though it has been almost a full year since my semester abroad ended, I am still reaping the benefits of my program. I made memories and learned things that will always be a part of my life. Institute for American Universities (IAU) was so professional and welcoming. I would go back in a heartbeat. My host mom was the best and we still communicate over email to this day. I made friends with people from around the world that will always be a part of my life. I am so thankful to CISabroad and IAU for my excellent semester in France!

The beginning of my adventures started when I was approved to go to Japan under CISabroad. From the moment I landed and met with my program advisor and coordinator Jeff Sinding, I knew I was going to have a great experience in Tokyo. Because of CISabroad, I was able to be located in a quiet neighborhood called Nakanobu, Tokyo. My school was located in Gotanda, which was just two stops away. My school was beautiful and my apartment was cozy. Everything was so convenient because CISabroad placed us by multiple restaurants and grocery stores that sell afforable produce. There’s really nowhere else where I can get such a great deal of a program that provides housing, guides you to multiple transportation options, education, and a phenomenal experience. If I could study abroad again, I would sign up with them in a heartbeat.

My experience in Madrid was amazing. I came to love the hustle and bustle of Madrid city life. Culture was rich and adventure was always around the corner. There was always an opportunity to try something new; new places to explore, new cuisine to try, new activities to participate in. Madrid is a city that surprised me every single day. CISAbroad was extremely helpful in making me feel as comfortable as possible during my stay abroad. The onsite advisor was almost always available to answer my questions or resolve possible issues. The activities that CIS organized helped me build relationships with the other students in the program and helped me learn more about Spanish culture. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to study abroad, especially with such an organized, helpful, and caring program, CISAbroad.

Interning abroad in Wellington NZ was the best decision I've ever made! I fell in love with the city and my job and really didn't want to go home! This experience was so eye opening and I can't wait to go back to Wellington! I will never forget all of the benefits that my internship opportunity provided me! I still have kept in touch with those who I met in New Zealand and will actually be going to Scotland with a girl I met from England in the spring!

I spent 3 months interning in Sydney, Australia and within the first few weeks it felt like home! I knew every nook and cranny of that city! After working my Internship hours for the day I would make sure to schedule adventure days around the city via Public Transportation. I felt like a local by the first week! I felt safe no matter what time of the day it was. Not only did I get to know the city, but I also made incredible life long friendships. To this day - a year after my journey - I still talk to my foreign friends! I feel like I've been spoiled because my internship fit my needs perfectly and the company supported me through one on one training. CISabroad is awesome!