Study International Policy & Diplomacy Abroad

I really enjoyed my time studying abroad with ALBA Barcelona and I would do it again if I could! I definitely recommend for anyone who wants to push themselves out of their comfort zone, explore internationally, and immerse themselves in Spain's culture. Barcelona is a city that offers bustling events as well as quiet peaceful days. It is also very easy to travel to nearby European countries from Spain and I have explored 9 new countries this quarter, coming from someone who had never been to Europe before this. The teachers are amazing as well and I appreciate their time to teaching kids abroad. Overall, I 10/10 recommend this experience!

I honestly can say this program changed my perspective of the world. The title lives up to its name, "International Relations in the Global South," as you learn about South Africa's apartheid history, how its history shaped its relations with neighbors, and how those inform a Global South view of international relations. You learn all about these things through both lectures from incredible guest speakers as well as field trips/site visits to various NGOs and political offices around Durban. The program starts with a week in Johannesburg, spends the majority of the time in Durban, and ends with a few days in Cape Town. During the semester you also have excursions to Mozambique and the South Coast in South Africa. You also spend a week in a rural town where you use the isiZulu language you've been practicing during the semester. Every day is filled with activities and opportunities to learn as much as possible. I highly recommend this program for people interested in international politics and history as well as an interest in learning about South African cultures. It's an adventure everyday, so be flexible and have fun!