First Year Abroad Blog

Solo travel during your CIEE First Year Abroad (FYA) program is an incredible opportunity to start college abroad, see the world, and step out of your comfort zone. While your... keep reading

Many students dream of traveling after high school but face pressure to start college right away. The good news? You don’t have to choose between college and adventure. It's totally... keep reading

Studying abroad during your first year of college is an exciting adventure; however, adjusting to your college responsibilities—and in a new country, no less—comes with unique challenges. There are a... keep reading

Post written by CIEE Ambassador Abroad Haimanot Shimeles who just finished participating in CIEE’s First Year Abroad Program in Spain . In this blog, Haimanot shares how studying abroad in... keep reading

​​Plenty of high school students spend time imagining what it’s like to be in college. While your number one priority in college should be earning your degree, there’s a lot... keep reading

Earning college credit and fulfilling your general education requirements abroad is more than just a valuable academic opportunity—it can open your eyes to new experiences and ways of thinking, which... keep reading

Post written by CIEE Ambassador Abroad Fiona Sanchez who is currently participating in CIEE’s First Year Abroad Program in Japan . In this blog, Fiona shares her experiences of adapting... keep reading

Attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community vary around the world. It's of the utmost importance that no matter where you go, you do a little pre-trip planning to ensure your safety... keep reading

Moving abroad for your first year of college is an exciting experience that comes with a wide range of firsts, including leaving behind the friends and family you have at... keep reading

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that fills your life with unforgettable memories. Now, imagine adding the excitement of celebrating your birthday abroad to that mix! Marking your special day... keep reading

Starting your first year of college is a super exciting journey! You can look forward to having many new experiences and finding amazing friendships. As you navigate this new chapter... keep reading

Post written by CIEE Global Ambassador Fiona Sanchez who is currently participating in CIEE’s First Year Abroad Program in Japan . In this blog, Fiona shares her exciting experience of... keep reading

Throughout your teen’s college decision process, the best thing you can do is offer as much support and assistance as possible so they can make the best decisions for their... keep reading

If you know you want to travel and even live abroad, your first year of college is the perfect time to start. CIEE's First Year Abroad program lets you make... keep reading

As a parent or legal guardian of a teen who is considering spending their first year of college studying abroad, you'll want to know what to expect for them. How... keep reading

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity to see the world and experience a new culture, but can it help with your academic career in a practical way? In short, the... keep reading

Studying abroad has the reputation of being expensive, but it doesn't have to be! You may be surprised to learn that the fees for a CIEE First Year Abroad program... keep reading

Saying goodbye as your teen embarks on their study abroad program is bittersweet! You know they're off on a grand adventure, but as parents, you're likely worried about their safety... keep reading

When your teen embarks on their first year of college abroad, it's normal to have many questions about their experience. CIEE takes participants' First Year Abroad safety very seriously and... keep reading

Living with a host family is one of the best ways to experience a new place while studying abroad. For recent high school grads on their CIEE First Year Abroad... keep reading

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity to see the world and grow as a person at any stage of your academic journey. While there are many excellent travel programs open... keep reading

It’s hard to think about what comes after a study abroad adventure when you just can’t wait to get started! But because First Year Abroad is such an important step... keep reading

If you want to know more about applying to a CIEE First Year Abroad program, you’re in the right place! Follow along as we detail how to apply and prepare... keep reading

There’s a lot on your mind as you prepare for a study abroad adventure like CIEE First Year Abroad, and we’re sure that questions about your academics are top of... keep reading

Getting into your dream college may sound daunting, but it certainly doesn’t have to be, especially when you have CIEE for support. Let’s dive into some recommendations! How to Pick... keep reading

As soon as you study abroad, the world opens up even more. Literally. On program, you’re closer to different countries, you’ll embark on different cultural excursions, and you’ll meet people... keep reading

“When is the best time to study abroad?” This is a question we at CIEE hear often. The good news is any time is an excellent time to go abroad... keep reading

First year abroad programs are seriously amazing. Yet, like anything, they can come with some challenges and learning curves. After all, you are exploring an unfamiliar country with its own... keep reading

The age-old study abroad question: should I study abroad for a semester or year? And while both are great options, the answer really depends on the individual. Let’s take a... keep reading

Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere. You’re likely seeing it mentioned on the news and social media; it’s probably even been a topic in your classes or school assemblies. But there’s... keep reading