Summer Study Abroad in English
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Program Overview
Immerse Yourself in International Learning and Mediterranean Culture! 🌍
Join our Summer Study Abroad program in English in the charming city of Alicante, Spain. Designed for students from various educational backgrounds, this program offers the unique opportunity to engage in English-taught courses while experiencing the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of the Mediterranean.
Highlights:
- 📚 English-Taught Curriculum: Benefit from a diverse selection of courses covering a wide range of subjects, all taught in English. This program caters to students seeking an international education without the language barrier, providing an inclusive academic environment.
- 🌊 Mediterranean Lifestyle: Live the Mediterranean lifestyle in Alicante, where the sun, sea, and history create a serene and enriching backdrop for your studies. Absorb the local culture, traditions, and social practices, enhancing your global awareness and personal growth.
- 🏛 Cultural Integration: While the academic courses are in English, the city of Alicante offers countless opportunities to learn Spanish informally and interact with locals. Participate in cultural activities, excursions, and community engagement projects to deepen your understanding of Spanish society.
Alicante’s blend of historical richness and modern vitality makes it an ideal setting for a summer of learning and exploration. The program combines rigorous academic standards with the opportunity to relax and explore the picturesque surroundings, providing a balanced and fulfilling summer experience.
Join us this summer in Alicante for a study abroad program that promises academic enrichment, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to create lasting memories in one of Spain’s most beautiful regions.
Program Details
Program Availability
- Summer: July 1 - July 27
Requirements
- GPA: 2.75
Inclusions
- University courses at Universidad de Alicante
- Optional Spanish course
- 4-5 credits
- Accommodation in residence halls
- All meals included
- Frequent excursions and travel opportunities
Fees
- Starting at: $5,200
Life Abroad
Discover more!
Language
Language in Alicante, Spain, showcases the beauty of Castilian Spanish, enriched with Valencian influences, reflecting the region’s bilingual heritage. Engage in language exchanges and interact with locals to dive deep into the distinct dialect and linguistic nuances of the area.
History
Alicante’s history is a mosaic of civilizations, from the ancient Iberians to Moors and Christians, each leaving a distinct mark on the city’s cultural fabric. The Castillo de Santa Bárbara, perched atop Mount Benacantil, offers panoramic views and a journey through centuries of history, from medieval conquests to the War of Spanish Succession.
Architecture
The architecture of Alicante is a picturesque blend of the old and the new, where Baroque churches coexist with modernist buildings. The Explanada de España, lined with palm trees and paved with marble tiles that create a wave effect, is a testament to the city’s flair for combining natural beauty with urban design.
Gastronomy
Alicante’s gastronomy is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, with seafood taking center stage. Dishes like arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock) and paella alicantina offer a taste of the sea, while the region’s fruits and vegetables highlight the freshness of local produce. The city’s culinary scene is a delightful exploration of traditional recipes with contemporary twists.
Cultural Immersion
Immersing yourself in Alicante’s culture means experiencing its lively festivals, such as the Bonfires of Saint John (Hogueras de San Juan), where spectacular firework displays and effigies bring the city to life. The blend of beachside relaxation with the vibrancy of urban life encapsulates the essence of living in Alicante, offering a unique balance of leisure and cultural depth.
Your semester in Alicante offers much more than just academic pursuits; it’s an invitation to dive deep into the vibrant heart of Spanish culture. Included in your program are a myriad of cultural activities and outings, meticulously selected by our Resident Director to enrich your experience. Here’s a glimpse of the cultural journey that awaits you in Alicante:
Welcome to Mediterranean Delights: Begin your adventure with a warm welcome dinner, where you’ll taste local specialties like arroz alicantino and indulge in authentic Spanish tapas, fostering connections with fellow students and our local team.
Cultural Visits: Immerse yourself in Alicante’s rich history and art through guided tours to the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, the Museo de Bellas Artes, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, and the Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante.
Cultural Walks/Itineraries: Discover Alicante’s history, picturesque spots, Modernist architecture, and Civil War air-raid shelters through themed walks like “Historia de Alicante,” “Rincones con encanto de Alicante,” “El Modernismo en la ciudad de Alicante,” and “Refugios antiaéreos de la Guerra Civil en Alicante.”
Gastronomic Workshops: Delve into the culinary arts with workshops on alicantino rice dishes and tapas, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional flavors of the region.
Dance Workshops: Move to the rhythm with Latin dance, flamenco, and zumba workshops, embracing the lively local culture and staying active.
Cultural Events: Celebrate Thanksgiving Alicante-style, and engage with the local community through Spanish cinema screenings, bowling nights, and more.
Spanish Language Cinema and Bowling with Language Exchange: Enhance your Spanish skills and make new friends through movie nights and bowling with language exchange partners.
Gymkhana: El Código Lucentum: Participate in a thrilling gymkhana based on the ancient history of Alicante, combining fun, teamwork, and learning.
Multi-Activity Nautical Day: Experience the Mediterranean Sea with a day of water sports, offering a blend of excitement and relaxation.
Please note that while most activities are included in your program’s cost, some may require a small additional fee. Availability of activities can vary depending on the program schedule. This comprehensive suite of cultural engagements is designed to ensure you live Alicante not just as a student, but as a true part of its vibrant community.
Meet your Resident Director
The SSA Alicante Team with their students!
Housing
Student Residences
Student Residences* provide an independent lifestyle yet ensure a communal atmosphere with other students. Availability in these complexes is limited, prioritizing individuals with specific health and dietary requirements. Opting for this type of accommodation offers a mix of self-sufficiency and assistance, equipped with facilities designed for student needs. These complexes not only offer a chance to connect with students from various cultures but also foster an educational setting that supports scholarly achievement. This choice is ideal for those seeking greater independence while still desiring to be an integral part of Alicante’s student community.
Homestays
In Alicante, opting for a homestay offers an unparalleled immersion into Spanish life and culture. This choice means you’ll live with a local host family, providing full room and board, including laundry and room cleaning services. Homestays are ideal for students eager to practice Spanish daily in an authentic setting, enhancing their language skills and cultural understanding. Our homestays are carefully selected to ensure a welcoming and conducive atmosphere for learning.
The SSA team maintains high standards by discussing norms and policies with hosts and regularly inspecting homes to guarantee your comfort. Special dietary or housing accommodations are available, though they may come with an additional fee. Most host families have been partnering with us for years, receiving high praise from former students for their hospitality. Remember, bringing a small gift for your host family is a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation for their welcome.
*Residence spaces are limited and students with special health and dietary needs have first priority
Each accommodation option aims to enhance your overseas education journey in Alicante, providing unique opportunities for deep cultural, linguistic, and communal engagement. Regardless of opting for the close-knit environment of a homestay or the autonomy offered by student housing, the Spanish Studies Abroad team will be there to assist and ensure you fully benefit from your stay in Spain.
Academics
Course Selection
The available courses for students vary by program and are distributed between the SSA center and local universities. Please see the selection below, and contact us for the most current course information:
Universidad de Alicante
Subject
Course
Courses
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 373UA-E – SPANISH CULTURES FROM AN INTERCULTURAL PERSPECTIVE
Living the Culture
LTC 300UAS-A CULTURE OF SPANISH CUISINE
Global Peace/International Relations
SPAN 374UAS-E: SPAIN, EUROPE AND THE MEDITERRANEAN
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 379UAS-E: SURVEY OF SPANISH ART
Contact Hours: 60
Credits: 4
Academic Institutions
The University of Alicante is a prestigious higher education and research institution located in Alicante, Spain. Known for its innovative and diverse academic programs, the university caters to over 30,000 students with a faculty of highly qualified professors and researchers.
Established in 1979, the University of Alicante has developed a reputation for excellence in both teaching and research. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, health, business, and engineering.
The university’s campus is renowned for its modern architecture and green spaces, providing an ideal environment for learning and research. It has also been recognized for its contributions to scientific research, particularly in areas such as technology, health sciences, and social sciences.
The University of Alicante is committed to internationalization, with numerous partnerships with universities and research institutions around the world. This global outlook enhances the educational experience for its students, preparing them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
Why This Program?
🏛️ Comprehensive Learning Experience:
- Advanced Spanish Language Proficiency: Programs are designed for students with an interest in reaching higher levels of Spanish fluency through immersive courses.
- Cultural Realities Course: Unique culture course led by the Resident Director, focusing on the Cultural Realities of Spain.
🌎 Immersive Cultural Engagement:
- Located on Spain's Mediterranean Coast: The program is situated in a vibrant area known for its beautiful landscapes and lively cultural scene.
- Direct Interaction with Local Culture: Provides opportunities to engage directly with the local culture and people, enhancing the learning experience.
📚 Diverse Academic Offerings:
- Liberal Arts Focus: Offers a wide range of subjects within the liberal arts, accommodating diverse academic interests.
- Courses in Contemporary Spain: Specialized classes focused on contemporary Spanish culture and language.
🌍 Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunities:
- Exploration of Spain: Situated on Spain’s dazzling Mediterranean coast, Alicante offers a gateway to explore the rich cultural and geographical diversity of Spain.
- European Travel Easily Accessible: Alicante’s strategic location enables students to travel easily across Europe, offering a multitude of cross-cultural experiences.
🤝 Relationship Building and Networking:
- Interaction with International and Local Students: The program facilitates interaction with a diverse student body, enhancing cultural understanding and creating enduring global networks.
- Mentorship from Experts: Benefit from the guidance of recognized Spanish academics and professionals, fostering opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
📸 Memory-Making Experiences:
- Cultural Immersion Activities: Participate in organized field trips and cultural activities exclusive to the program, designed to deepen your appreciation of Spanish heritage.
- Lively Local Community Life: Engage with the vibrant local community of Alicante through festivals, markets, and traditional events, creating unforgettable memories.
Academic Diversity and Language Proficiency 🎓
- Diverse Course Offerings: Extensive range of subjects taught in English, catering to a broad spectrum of academic interests.
- Tailored Summer Programs: Specialized short courses providing focused and rapid learning opportunities.
- Enhanced Language Skills: Opportunity to learn and refine Spanish language abilities in an immersive setting.
- International Teaching Methods: Exposure to different pedagogical approaches from an international faculty, enriching the learning experience.
Cultural Integration and Linguistic Practice 🌐
- Cultural Events and Integration: Access to a variety of cultural activities and events promoting deep integration into Spanish life.
- Multilingual Communication: Daily practice in English and Spanish, enhancing verbal and written skills in both languages.
- International Student Community: Vibrant multicultural campus environment that fosters global friendships and networks.
- Authentic Spanish University Experience: Full immersion into the Spanish higher education system and student culture.
Personal and Professional Enrichment ✨
- Global Mindset Development: Cultivation of an international outlook and cross-cultural competencies, essential for today's globalized job market.
- Independent Living Skills: Growth in self-reliance and problem-solving ability while living abroad.
- Employability Enhancement: Increased attractiveness to future employers with the experience of studying abroad on a resume.
- Career Networking Opportunities: Engagement with the university's network of businesses and alumni for potential career advancement.
Lifestyle and Recreation 🏖️
- Mediterranean Lifestyle: Enjoyment of a leisurely coastal life with a perfect balance between study, relaxation, and fun.
- Outdoor Activities Abound: Abundance of recreational activities from beach sports to hiking in Alicante’s idyllic climate.
- Social and Entertainment Scene: Access to a vibrant local culture with numerous cafes, bars, and nightlife suited for students.
- Scenic Study Environment: Beautiful university campus and city landscapes providing an inspiring setting for academic pursuits.
Healthy Living and Wellbeing 🍏
- Mediterranean Diet Benefits: Embrace the local cuisine known for its health benefits and delicious flavors.
- Wellness Facilities: Access to the university's sports and wellness amenities promoting a balanced student life.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Higher standard of living for students due to Alicante's lower living expenses compared to other European cities.
Global Networking and Academic Partnerships 🤝
- International Partnerships: Benefit from Universidad de Alicante's wide network of international collaborations and exchanges.
- Resume Enhancer: The addition of overseas study experience serves as a notable differentiator in a competitive job market.
- Academic Conference Participation: Opportunities to take part in global academic discussions and events hosted at the university.
- Research Collaboration Prospects: Potential engagement with international research initiatives led by the university.
Dates & Fees
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Important Links
Summary
Requirements
- GPA: 2.75
Program Summary
- Summer: July 1 - July 27
- University courses at Universidad de Alicante
- Optional Spanish course
- 4-5 credits
- Accommodation in residence halls
- All meals included
- Frequent excursions and travel opportunities
What does the fee include?
- Tuition fees
- Room & board
- Study tours
- Health insurance
- On-site support
- Health & Safety
- Transcripts
- Excursions
- Local activities
- Starting at: $5,200
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