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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:
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.
Discover more!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Contact Hours: 60
Credits: 4
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.
The mission of SSA is to promote our students’ in-depth understanding of Spanish-speaking countries through specifically designed and academically rigorous university-level and cultural travel programs.
INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS Manager
Beth is your go-to contact for navigating the complex process of study abroad.
She aims to respond to all inquiries within one business day.
Don’t hesitate to drop a message. No question is too small!
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