Mouhammed from Bard Academy – MA on his High School Summer Abroad Program in Sevilla.
Spending a summer abroad in Sevilla wasn’t just about improving Spanish—it was about growth, culture, and unexpected adventures. Mouhammed, a student from Bard Academy (MA), shares how his time with SSA transformed him academically and personally.
What Made You Choose This Program?
I first learned about SSA at a Career Day event at my school. Their booth immediately caught my eye because I love studying abroad—Sevilla would be my third experience!
Originally, I had my sights set on Alicante because I had friends there from previous travels. But due to age restrictions, I transferred to the Sevilla program instead. Looking back, it felt like fate—Sevilla chose me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What Did You Love About Sevilla?
Honestly? Everything.
The city stole my heart from the moment I arrived. If anyone is considering Sevilla, my biggest advice is to do a homestay. My host family was the kindest, most welcoming group of people I’ve met—we still keep in touch.
I also loved how everything was within walking distance. In just a few minutes, I could find a café, a plaza, or a green space to relax. The city felt so alive, yet so easy to navigate.
The Best Things About Spain in General
Spain’s culture fascinated me, especially how late they eat dinner! At first, it was a shock, but I grew to love it. Having extra time to explore the city at night gave me a fresh perspective on its energy.
Another surprise? The warmth of the people. Back home, people tend to keep to themselves, but in Spain, strangers on the street would start conversations or offer compliments—it felt like a completely different social atmosphere.
Living in a Homestay: A Unique Experience
Dinners in my homestay were special. Every meal, the whole family—five of them plus me—would gather around the table. That wasn’t something I was used to, but it made me feel completely at home.
My room was perfect: a private space with a desk, balcony, bunk bed, and fan (which was a lifesaver in the 40°C weather). The independence was great, but I also always had people around whenever I wanted to chat.
A Typical Day in Sevilla
Mornings started with a light breakfast with my host father—just toast, tea, and ColaCao (Spanish chocolate milk). Then, I’d take a stunning 15-minute walk over a bridge to class, passing the river and bustling city scenes.
After school, I’d grab lunch from a local grocery shop, then explore with friends. Evenings were spent enjoying home-cooked meals with my host family.
How the Experience Impacted Me Academically
I was one of the youngest students in the program—the rest were college students, which intimidated me at first. But my classmates were incredibly welcoming, and my teacher made learning fun (even when she joked about my age!).
Academically, the courses felt easier than my school back home. The manageable workload allowed me to learn without stress while still experiencing the city. It was the perfect balance.
Personal Growth: A Whole New Perspective
More than academics, Sevilla shaped me personally.
Before this trip, I was rowdier in school, but something about this experience calmed my nerves and made me more social. I got comfortable starting conversations and meeting new people, and that confidence stuck with me when I returned home.
SSA’s Incredible Support
Applying for my first summer abroad program was a little tricky, but SSA made everything easy with quick responses and guidance.
Even when my luggage was lost in Madrid for three days, SSA stepped in immediately, handled everything, and made sure I was taken care of. They even supported my spontaneous weekend trip to Paris by helping with paperwork in record time.
Advice for Students on the Fence About Studying Abroad
My mom always tells me: Don’t worry, everything works itself out. And she was right.
From booking flights to arriving in a new country alone, I had a lot of worries. But looking back, I realize that everything came together in the end. If you’re hesitant—just go for it.
Meeting People & Making Friends
Before leaving, I worried about making friends. That anxiety disappeared fast.
There’s always someone you’ll click with in a program like this. And even outside of SSA, Sevilla’s friendly nature makes it easy to meet people—whether it’s chatting in a plaza or striking up a conversation with a stranger on the street.
Final Thoughts
SSA’s Whatsapp support was a lifesaver—I always had someone to reach out to if needed. Navigating Sevilla was also incredibly easy, thanks to clear street signs and well-covered Apple Maps locations.
If I could change one thing? More trips to other parts of Spain! I loved visiting Cádiz and Córdoba, but expanding the excursions to places like La Alhambra or Madrid would’ve made the experience even richer.
Still, Sevilla was perfect. And I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.
