How You Can Have a Study Abroad Adventure like Issa Okamoto
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If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok and dreaming of life abroad – café-hopping between classes, exploring new cities on weekends, meeting people from around the world – meet creator Issa Okamoto, a college student who’s turning that dream into her everyday reality. Issa is studying abroad in Barcelona with CIEE, and her journey is proof that adventure, growth, and global experiences are all within reach.
The Decision to Jumpstart Your Study Abroad Experience
Thinking about studying abroad can feel exciting – and a little intimidating. Between the cost, transferring credits, and saying goodbye to your campus for a semester, it’s normal to have a few nerves before taking the leap.
But here’s the thing: Those fears are completely valid and totally solvable. CIEE offers scholarships and grants to make studying abroad more affordable, academic support to keep you on track for graduation, and on-site staff who help you feel at home from day one. Once you realize how much support is built into the experience, the idea of studying abroad shifts from “scary” to doable – and entirely worth it.
Choosing the Program That's Right for You
Issa found her perfect fit with CIEE Study Abroad, and you can too. With 470+ programs to choose from across 45 global cities, CIEE makes it easy to design a study abroad experience that matches your major, goals, and sense of adventure. From studying sustainability in Copenhagen to film in Prague or business in Barcelona, there’s a program for every path.
Explore Discounts & Scholarships with CIEE
Studying abroad doesn’t have to break the bank, especially with CIEE. We offer a variety of scholarships and grants to make global learning more accessible, from need-based awards like the GAIN Travel Grant to prestigious opportunities like the Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship.
And if you’re looking for an extra study abroad discount, head to Issa’s referral link to get $200 off your CIEE program!
Making the Most of Your Study Abroad Experience
Once you land abroad, the real adventure begins. CIEE Centers offer a built-in community and support system every step of the way. From helpful and experienced on-site staff to thoughtfully organized weekend excursions, you’ll never feel like you’re navigating a new country alone.
Check out Issa’s tour of the CIEE Barcelona study center to see what studying abroad with CIEE really looks like: Inspiring spaces, new friends from around the world, and endless opportunities to explore, learn, and grow.
Follow in Issa's Footsteps with CIEE Study Abroad
Your study abroad story starts the same way Issa’s did – with one brave decision to go for it. Now, she’s thriving in Barcelona and making the most of every moment abroad. Whether you’re chasing new academic goals, global connections, or just a change of scenery, CIEE has the program (and the support) to get you there.
Keep up with Issa’s CIEE adventure on TikTok (@issaokamoto) and Instagram (@issaokamoto) and the next adventure could be yours!