Program Reviews

I think that orientation could have included a few things that weren't in the power points online, as I felt I already knew what was covered during orientation week because of them. But, I loved the orientation groups and leaders and thought the experience was absolutely worth it, and I loved all the help going through the visa application process. But I loved that CIEE put together a group of like minded people together, it made finding roomates and making friends so much easier and I haven't once felt alone since being here.

It has been such a pleasure working here in Madrid with my school. They have been nothing but amazing to me and cooperative, and I have been slowly immersing myself in the culture of Madrid. In the beginning, I was a bit nervous about how I would acclimate to the lifestyle here; however, this is not my first time in Europe for a long period of time. The first weeks coming into this program I was a bit nervous, but with the guidance of CIEE I was fitted with all the right tools to flourish in this beautiful city.

I wanted to use this program as a gap year between undergrad and medical school, and I am really glad that I did. This program has let me live in and explore Spain as well as the rest of Europe while I am here. While I don't want to be a teacher, I have really enjoyed the job so far. Being a teacher is a great way to make an impact on so many people's education, and this experience has taught me a lot about myself and what it means to be a teacher. Additionally, this entire experience has taught me so much, and I am excited since I am only half way through!

Overall, I'm very happy with the support I received from the CIEE staff during my move to Madrid. I encountered many challenges while completing the move, ranging from housing to socializing, and the staff were always there to lend me a hand and make me feel supported. I truly cannot thank them enough for all the support they gave me before, during, and after in-person orientation to ensure my transition to Madrid went as smoothly as possible. I highly recommend the program because of them and the support they give!

The CIEE program was such a comfort and support for me when making this life changing transition. It is still a comfort to me now, knowing they are there to support me with anything I need even though I am fully adjusted and settled in! They were very helpful with the Visa and TIE process. I would not have been able to do it without their guidance! Also being provided with both medical and travel insurance by the program was game changer. The insurance provider has English speakers to support you as well which gave me peace mind!

While you will pay a lot to do a CIEE program, you will receive the benefit of being helped with every step of the visa process and will have many resources to find support and advice for other things regarding your time abroad, both before, during, and after your move. Keep in mind the stipend you receive is extremely low and you should be sure to have a lot of savings before moving, and consider that you are not legally permitted to work another job besides doing tutoring. It is not emphasized when applying but I recommend a basic if not intermediate level of Spanish before going to Spain, as you will have an easier time teaching and interacting with staff, as well as finding housing and going about daily life.

I did this certification course as preparation for becoming an Auxiliar de Conversación in Madrid, Spain. I had zero teaching background prior to this course and my program in Spain. This course gave me a wonderful and thorough introduction into the world of teaching English as a foreign language! By the end of the course I felt that I would be able to enter a classroom in Spain or anywhere else in the world with confidence! The skills I practiced in the course help me daily in my classroom now!

As someone who has never traveled abroad alone, this program gave me all the support and knowledge needed to make it as stress free as possible. The program helped me pick an area that was best for me and allowed me to rank my preferences in order to be placed in a school I would love. The orientation gave me knowledge to help me prepare for my time here and give me accurate expectations. I was placed in a school that set me up in comfortable and convenient housing as well as helped me apple for work documents and banking. Overall, I am very glad I applied for this program.

This experience has been amazing and transformative. My host family is kind, accommodating, and excited to have me here. I am truly grateful for how amazing they have been. The students and teachers at the institute embrace me warmly. They are equally excited to learn English and about American culture. There is great support from CIEE, and we have a chat with all the other volunteers for any questions. I have been able to travel a lot around Spain and experience the Spanish culture. I enjoy working with the students and watching them improve their English. I recommend this program for anybody with a desire to challenge themselves and to help others. There is also enough time for me to maintain my regular activities such as going to the gym.

This program provides a great opportunity to live in a new city. Madrid is very easy to navigate with the public transport systems. Housing is challenging to find, but there are many great neighborhoods to choose from. It is easy to travel from Madrid to other Europe cities via cheap flights and trains. Teaching has allowed me to learn more about Spanish culture and customs. When talking with my fellow teachers, I can practice speaking Spanish and work on expanding my vocabulary. I would recommend this experience to adventurous recent graduates interested in learning a new language, living in a new city, and meeting new people.