Happy Valentine’s Day! Each year, we ask ISEP team members to share some of the ISEP programs they love in honor of the holiday. It’s always hard to choose just a few programs to highlight, but we narrowed it down and came up with a list of some of our favorite programs!
Sydney Hutchison – Study in Paris - American Business College Paris
When in doubt, go to Paris! At least that’s what I always tell myself! When you choose our program at American Business College Paris, you’ll live and study in the heart of Paris’s charming 10th arrondissement steps away from the youthful Canal St-Martin area. 100% of the on-site staff speak English making this a program that allows you to experience a new culture and language while still enjoying some of the same comforts of home. There are a variety of exciting hands-on opportunities available for visiting students that you won’t want to miss!
Malikka Hutchins – Study in Bangkok - Thammasat University
Thammasat University places you in the heart of Bangkok, where centuries-old temples, riverside sunsets, and buzzing markets coexist with sleek transit and modern city life. Thailand is warm in so many ways—from its perpetual sunshine to its friendly people. The warmth, affordability, abundance of delicious food, and endless opportunities to try something new are just a few of the reasons I fell in love with Thailand. Not to mention, with quick flights and easy trains, swapping Bangkok’s city vibe for the beaches of Phuket or the mountains of Chiang Mai is surprisingly simple.
Ryan McLemore – Study in Brazil - Fundação Armando Alvares Penteado
Fundação Armando Alvares Penteado (FAAP) in Brazil is an incredible choice for anybody seeking a study abroad experience that is equal parts exhilarating, challenging and enlightening. It will truly distinguish you and make you more professionally competitive in a fast-changing world. If you love exploring large cities, then São Paulo is an unbeatable match, offering constant energy, creativity, and opportunity. Add in Brazil’s unmatched music and dance, bold cuisine, and colorful traditions, studying at FAAP becomes more than an academic experience—it’s a life‑shaping adventure.
Andrea Custodi – Study in the Italian Riviera - Florence University of the Arts La Spezia
Liguria is one of my favorite places: the rugged cliffs, the graceful towns, the sparkling Mediterranean, and the home of pesto! I love FUA La Spezia because it it offers a chance to go deeper than what most tourists experience. You can learn about shipping, commerce, and trade—the business of the Mediterranean. You’ll leave with more than photos and travel stories: deep, nuanced knowledge, real relationships, hopefully some language, and an understanding of what it’s like to live all’italiana.
T Divino – Study in New Zealand - Massey University
Massey University has so many great academic offerings – from STEM and health sciences to business, communications, and language/cultural studies. Meanwhile, you can spend your free time exploring the North Island’s unbelievable natural wonders: hot springs, volcanoes, seaside fishing villages, even California Redwoods! Whether you’re enjoying Massey’s sustainable community, taking in Auckland’s multicultural feel, or – like me – heading straight to Hobbiton, you can’t go wrong with studying abroad in New Zealand.
Quiamony Gaskins – Study in France - Réunion Island - Université de La Réunion
Everyone will feel welcome in La Réunion Island due to the diversity, warm hospitality of its people, and its tropical beauty! Students will find success at UDLR, an institution which encourages collegial relationships between students and professors and provides many opportunities for international students to socialize and participate in cultural events and organizations that celebrate the unique geographic and cultural history of the island. Much like mainland France, this is a great place for people to learn and improve their French language skills, and it offers unique opportunities to learn other languages and dialects like Réunion Creole (which blends many languages like French, Tamil, Malagasy, and Portuguese). La Réunion also offers a great escape into nature, and students can hike near active volcanoes or lounge on alluring sandy black beaches and encounter flora and fauna that can’t be found anywhere else on earth.
Kristen Aguto – Study in Seoul - Hanyang University
When I visited Hanyang University, I was amazed by the state-of-the-art facilities, the great location within Seoul, and the beauty of the campus. You’ll receive strong support through the university buddy program where you are paired with a local Korean student. Additionally, ISEP’s Regional Coordinator for Asia, Brian, provides on-the-ground guidance and organizes cultural activities throughout the semester.
Maryam Toorawa – Study in Sevilla - Centro Universitario EUSA
Sevilla is one of my favorite European cities. Our program at Centro Universitario EUSA offers an incredible experience where you’re able to do hands-on learning in high-demand fields such as communications and business in a city is steeped in culture and history. Plus there are plenty of Spanish language and culture courses for anybody wanting to improve their language skills! Sevilla sits at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, making it one of the most interesting and beautiful cities to spend time in. Don’t miss the world-famous churros and chocolate for breakfast!
Jackie Langdon – Summer in Ghana – Global Health - CFHI
I love that CFHI offers such a unique and immersive experience that allows you to earn academic credit while learning about local healthcare systems. Whether you are participating in clinical rotations at a pediatric hospital or contributing to outreach initiatives at a local school, this program offers meaningful community engagement opportunities that help you build a relevant and professional skill set in the health science fields.
Grace Glancy – Study in Prague - University of New York in Prague
The Study in Prague program provides students with the opportunity to study and live in the heart of Prague. The University of New York in Prague (UNYP) has a superb academic environment with small class sizes, hands-on access to professors, and extensive student resources including a writing lab and 1:1 academic advising. UNYP offers several student engagement opportunities including an extensive international student orientation, several student-run organizations, and a wide variety of on-campus student events. Prague, known as being budget friendly and one of the safest cities in the world, is a magical place to experience with a new adventure around every corner.
Alex Kahn‑Johnston – Study & Intern in Bolivia - Universidad Privada Boliviana
Life at Universidad Privada Boliviana (UPB) combines meaningful cultural immersion, top academics, and real-world internship and undergraduate research opportunities! Choose from three amazing host cities, each offering their own distinct vibe: high-altitude adventure in the capitol city of La Paz, the vibrant student scene in Cochabamba, or life at the center of it all in fast-growing Santa Cruz. You’ll live within the community, take classes with locals, and participate in student groups and sport teams. For those looking to take their academic experience beyond the classroom, UPB offers both for-credit internships with local businesses and entrepreneur cooperatives, and a semester-long research program for engineering and architecture students. Definitely consider Bolivia if you’re looking for a transformative, immersive, and globally minded study abroad experience!
Rachel Brown – Summer in Hong Kong – Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong is next on my travel bucket list for so many reasons—right on the bay, amazing food scene, and great nightlife to name a few! The city packs so much within its small landscape. If you’re like me and have been wanting to learn Chinese, this program will be perfect for you. The staff support is fantastic as well, they really do their best to be there for students every step of the way.
Marina Casals – Study in Spain – Universidad de Almería
Have you ever seen a campus right on the Mediterranean Sea? In Almería, the campus is literally on the sand of the beach. When I saw it, I could not believe my eyes! I can’t think of a better setting for a summer program. It combines solid academics with amazing weather, welcoming people, fantastic Spanish food, and that relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Studying here really feels like the perfect balance between learning, culture, and enjoying life by the sea.
Mark Toth – Summer in Brussels - Study & Intern - Brussels School of Governance
Ahh, Brussels - home to amazing museums, rich culture, and of course, some of the world’s most delicious chocolate. But I think that the best thing about Brussels is that here, you’re able to receive a once-in-a-lifetime educational and professional experience. Brussels is a cosmopolitan hub for government, commerce, and international affairs, and through this internship, you will build skills that can translate directly into a rewarding career while being in the center of it all.
Stephanie Baylor – Study in Botswana - University of Botswana
For students with an adventurous spirit and looking for an ‘off the beaten path’ experience, Botswana is the perfect fit! At the University of Botswana, you get the best of both worlds: meaningful academic immersion and cultural connection. The classes are taught by passionate professors deeply connected to their respective fields, ranging from STEM courses to social sciences. Outside of the classroom, you’re immediately enveloped in community-oriented Setswana culture, whether that’s participating in the 100+ clubs the university has to offer or being active in the local community through volunteering. And let’s be real: studying the country with the world’s largest elephant population means planning a wildlife safari isn’t a just dream, it’s basically part of the experience.
Caylie Middleton – Summer in Rome Public Health - Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Rome is such a gem of a study abroad destination. It’s much more central and vibrant than other popular Italian destinations. Join the Public Health program at Università Cattolica’s esteemed School of Medicine and Surgery and participate in weekly site visits focused on global health, epidemiology, and health policy. This program is a great fit if you’re pursuing health or pre‑professional studies and didn’t think study abroad was possible. And definitely try the lampone e cioccolato (raspberry and chocolate) gelato combination!
Brian Min – Study in South Korea - Ajou University
Ajou University will surprise you with such a rich campus experience! Located in Suwon, a vibrant city known for its UNESCO world heritage sites and a robust cluster of tech companies, Ajou boasts a tight campus community and a strong academic environment. Oh, did I mention a micro degree option in Korean Language and Literature? Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity!
Olivia Cordero – Study in Melbourne - La Trobe University
La Trobe offers many great courses and students often talk about how they enjoyed the academics. (That is not usually a top topic students speak to when describing their study abroad experience but for La Trobe it is!) They note that it was an easy transition to learning the new academic culture and they felt supported as students. Participants also always mention how easy it is to make new friendships. Melbourne is a great city to live in and ISEP students love to travel across Australia!
Samantha Newell – Study in Northern Ireland - Ulster University
I love that Ulster University offers three campuses across Northern Ireland, each with its own distinct atmosphere. Experience Belfast’s vibrant city energy, explore the history of Derry-Londonderry, or study in Coleraine along the River Bann near the North Coast beaches. Northern Ireland is the most affordable region in the U.K. and offers easy access to Ireland and the rest of the U.K.
Aubrey Bierwirth – Study in Scotland - University of Strathclyde
The University of Strathclyde has a special in my heart as it was where I studied abroad as a student (and led to me settling in Glasgow myself)! Nestled in Scotland’s largest city, students have access to everything you’d expect from a large city but with easy access to the stunning natural landscapes that Scotland has to offer. Day trips to castles, islands, mountains, or ancient landscapes, anyone? And of course, the city’s tagline is People Make Glasgow – everyone is friendly and welcoming, and it’s easy to get involved on campus and meet friends through clubs and societies. I also love the range of subjects available, including from Strathclyde’s triple-crown accredited Business School.
Sophia Turilli – Study in Southern Spain - Universidad de Murcia
Murcia offers so many wonderful opportunities for students studying abroad! The Universidad de Murcia allows students to choose from a wide array of subjects with access to their modern and amazing facilities. Along with the great academics, you get to experience the wonders of Spain with great food, phenomenal history and architecture, and exciting cultural experiences! As someone who studied abroad in Spain and adored it, I highly recommend Murcia as a well-connected and vibrant city!
Destiny Nicholson - Study in Malta - The University of Malta
The University of Malta is just what any cat lover, beach enthusiast, and history buff could ask for! This small but incredible country boasts stunning beaches and plenty of sunshine—perfect for soaking up the sun while studying outdoors. Whether you’re into business, education, or other fields, we’ve got the courses you need! And don’t forget to follow the campus cats on Instagram @ummalta—they’re adorable and sure to brighten your day!