CEA Study Abroad in London, England

I loved my time in London this summer. I am a huge Harry Potter fan and I got to visit the studio where they filmed the movies, I got to see different spots across London where they filmed, and yes I got to see the Platform. Not only did I love the Harry Potter experiences, but I loved the memories that I made with the friends that I met through this experience. We got to see so many things that I only dreamed about such as Stonehenge, the London eye, and many more. I would highly recommend doing study abroad. It is such a fun and life changing experience, and you might just meet some of your lifelong friends in the process!

CEA aided me in the pre-departure process as much as one could possibly expect. From making a payment schedule that worked with my financial needs to guiding me through the immigration process step-by-step, the staff always made sure we had support. In London, where I studied, CEA made sure to host events and excursions included in our tuition that allowed us to meet people and experience the diversity of cultures thriving in London. I was able to gain the confidence to do things like walk through the big city and even travel to new places on my own. I highly recommend it!

Going into the program I was nervous as I had never done anything like this before but once I arrived I quickly became comfortable. The staff become like parents and are there when you have any questions about the area or ideas of what to do around the area.Going into the program I had anxiety about being that far away from home but felt very welcomed by the staff and other people in the program. I wish I could go back and be a little less nervous and do more but I got to experience everything I wanted to while in London.

This program was all I could have asked for and more. The staff at CEA were absolutely amazing. I came on this program not knowing anyone, and never once felt alone. Cassandra was amazing, so approachable, personable and I really felt like she was there to make my experience the best that it could possibly be. There was a safety incident while I was in London, and the staff checked in immediately and made us check in to know we were all safe. Additionally, every week, we had to alert Cassandra of our weekend plans so that she was aware for safety purposes. She played an integral part in making a new, foreign city feel like home. There were also tons of fun activities planned, like seeing a West End Show, having afternoon tea, and a weekend trip to Wales. I would recommend CEA to anyone who's considering it.

Studying abroad in London was one of the best experiences of my life. The CEA team was very helpful while I was there in planning activities to explore London's culture and lifestyle, planning trips, and providing guidance along the way. The excursions were one of my favorite parts about studying in London, especially being able to see as West End show, going to Wales and seeing Hampton Court. Cassandra was an absolute wonder to be with. She was always willing to help in whatever needed. The only problem I encountered was arranging classes while I was there since LSBU's schedule had changed. However, in the end, it all worked out. I also got to meet a lot of new people, through CEA and locals, which was amazing because I made many new friends! London truly did become my home even if it was for a short time!

CEA London was challenging, incredibly beautiful, and the trip of a lifetime. London was the perfect destination for me considering my criminal justice major. The city is the birthplace of everything that makes the criminal justice system was founded from. London is also a hotpot of cultures ready to push me out of my small town comfort zone.

The CEA staff in London were always accommodating, truly listened, and cared for us while we were there. I can't believe what they had on their plate. It all seemed effortless from our end. We witnessed the hiccups they had to deal with and accommodate, through no fault of their own, with ease.

I was placed in a huge flat with four other girls in a two bedroom/two bathroom. Our placement was providential! I was in a room with Megan and we got along famously. Along with the three girls in the other room we had almost NO snags when it came to getting along. We often did things together and remained connected afterward.

I cannot say enough how the excursions included really rounded out the study abroad experience. Musicals in Piccadilly Circus, Jack the Ripper walk, boat tours, grand skyscraper views, museum tours, and more! This freed my time to try and make real connections with the community in London. I didn't have to worry I may be missing out on tourist destinations. I made real connections with Londoners that will last a lifetime. Even though the culture of the area can be standoffish once you break through their shyness it is rewarding.

The academics through CEA were intellectually invigorating. The teachers were top notch. The outings included within those courses were also very stimulating culturally as well as intellectually.

This past semester has been the best four months of my life. From the the academics to excursions, CEA really hit it out of the park. First, the application process was quick and painless. The domestic staff did a fantastic job of checking up on you and sending you reminders. Second, the on-site staff were both friendly and supportive throughout the semester. Cassandra (the program director) is so great. When I first arrived, she explained how to navigate the tube/public transit, where to buy food, and where to get bedding; which gave me a good amount of confidence in navigating a new city. In addition, there were a lot of activities throughout the week to keep us engaged. Overall, if you're looking to study abroad, there is no better option than CEA.

I absolutely loved my time abroad with CEA. Cassandra was so amazing and made everyone feel so comfortable. I went without knowing anyone so it was extremely comforting to know that I always had someone just a call away. London was the perfect place to study abroad and the CEA location kept us right in the center of the city so it was extremely easy to get anywhere! Going abroad with CEA also introduced me to so many people; I made great friends through the program and they still are some of my best friends.

The events and trips that are included in the program are very worthwhile. While I was there we did a weekend trip to York, a West End night where we saw Phantom of the Opera, a bus tour around the city, a scavenger hunt, a walking tour of Soho, a day trip to Stonehenge and Bath, a day trip to Oxford, and more! They are all things that should be taken advantage of and most of the program goes on them which is really fun!