Student Testimonials
“Barcelona was a unique place for an intensive language immersion experience. My confidence in Spanish grew exponentially as I listened, thought, and spoke it daily, while also using it to learn the basics of Catalan. CASA-Barcelona also had an amazing emphasis on experiential learning with excursions throughout Catalonia. These day and weekend trips to museums and historical sites brought the region’s rich history to life and created unforgettable memories with my CASA peers.”
“CASA-Barcelona exceeded every expectation I had. I developed a deep connection to the language I’d been studying for years, learned so much about myself and the world, and made lifelong friends with an incredible group of people. It was far more than just a five-month study abroad experience—it was truly the experience of a lifetime.”
"I think it was great, the structure was helpful with the cultural adjustment and the availability of support through other CASA students and the program directors made it so that I always knew I had a safety net. Academically, it was much harder than I expected, especially regarding grading, but overall good experience”.
“This was one of the best decisions I have made during undergrad. Study abroad gave me the opportunity to take classes entirely in Spanish, improving my linguistic skills to a degree. More than that, it gave me my first real taste of traveling and the opportunity to see so many different ways of living and learn about history in a way I hadn't done before. I loved living in Barcelona as well and getting the city experience-- something is always happening, and there is always something new to see or do!".
“It was a very supportive environment that gave me the chance to live independently for the first time. I appreciated the personal growth I was free to have and the ability to learn in a different model than what I have been doing in the US.”
“I wish I knew that what "most people" like to do when traveling is not for everybody, and it is okay to immerse yourself in your city in your own unique way. For example, finding activities you enjoy instead of going out for nightlife or realizing that immersing yourself in Barcelona can be just as fulfilling as seeing other parts of Europe.”
“I also spent time interning as a Research Assistant at the university’s School of Economics, an experience coordinated through CASA to fulfill the proseminar requirement. This role challenged my Spanish as I tackled communicating new technical concepts, and it helped me build tangible research skills that became assets in future job interviews.”
“I appreciated having full flexibility over the courses I could take during the semester. I complimented my two CASA courses with two Economics courses at the University of Barcelona, allowing me to fulfill my major requirements while abroad. “.
“Pick a lot of back-up classes and be proactive during course registration, do your best to interact with local students and immerse yourself in the language.”
“The three-week proseminar was essential for settling into the city, especially with the Catalan introduction course that made me feel more comfortable reading Catalan on street signs and in stores. This orientation period was also an incredible bonding experience—almost like summer camp—with the CASA cohort. Together, we embarked on the same journey before branching out in our individual paths during the regular semester.”
