Student reviews

CHINA: Beijing
	Nicholas Lara Saddleback College Since I studied in Beijing through KEI in 2001, it's been one whirlwind of a world tour. It sure has paid off deciding to study in China. I've been working in China since 2006. I recently changed industries from construction to global logistics where I preform key account and project management duties. The whole experience has been rather successful. Contact me if you would like to ask questions about living and working in Beijing. My email is Nick.Lara@kerryeas.com. You can also find me on Linkedin.
View video 1, 2	Cassandra Hardin University of Kentucky I am really enjoying Beijing and have settled into life here very well. The accommodations in our dorm are very comfortable. Chinese language classes started last week and have been very challenging so far. I am really looking forward to this new semester with KEI. Thanks again for all your attention to this program and to me. View my video ...about China ...with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
	Monty McGee Norfolk State University My experience in China was truly life changing. There is no better way to increase one's understanding of a complex county like China than to study and intern abroad. Living in Beijing for a semester, meeting students from China and around the world, and studying the culture and language of a rising global superpower was the best experience of my life. I was the first African American many Chinese had come in contact with. Many wondered whether I was a musician or athlete. On a number of occasions I found myself at the center of public attention. Mothers and fathers nudging their young toward me while gesturing a request for pictures. This was truly a unique position to be in, at times I felt almost like a celebrity. Overall, there is nothing I would change about my KEI experience in China.
	Zeng Lin Rider University In many ways, this program helped me become more independent as a person. I have gained many real-life experiences by interacting with Chinese business people and many other students. I want to thank KEI for giving me this opportunity, and supporting me in every way.
	Robert Brady Auburn University Most definitely the time of my life! I couldn't ask for anything better. I learned a lot about China through the business courses and field trips. In Shanghai we visited the French Concession where I stood in the room where the first Communist meeting was held in secret. You get chills when you take a step back and think about what has actually happened. Nanjing, Sanzhou, Hanzhou, and Wuxi were equally as impressive and impressionable. To get a history lesson in the place it happened is priceless.

ECUADOR: Guayaquil
	Harlie Collins University of Kentucky Interning abroad in Guayaquil not only increased my Spanish language proficiency, but it taught me the value of growing independently and appreciating cultural differences. I was yearning for adventure and more importantly, a program that would permit me to use both my language skill and undergraduate degree in public relations. The KEI crew did just that! Thank you for introducing me to my new favourite place.
	Christine Licata Point Loma Nazarene University My experience in Ecuador was incredible. Ecuador's diversity is like no other place in the world. One weekend I could either be biking in the mountains, relaxing in the beaches, trekking through the jungle, or seeing wild-life at the Galapagos Islands. There is so much to do here. From bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining, repelling of waterfalls, to horseback riding and hiking beautiful trails, there's adventure here that you can't get anywhere else. My medical internship was outstanding. The doctors showed me how to perform intravenous injections and I actually administered shots to patients as if I was a medical student. They're not afraid to really give you hands-on experience. It's an authentic environment to really practice and learn Spanish as well. I am so thankful for the medical internship I had in Ecuador with KEI. It will set me apart from other applicants to medical school. My time in Ecuador couldn't have been better!
	MacKenzie LeMay King University Ecuador was my first time abroad ever and I don't think I could have picked a better location or program. I loved being able to travel around the country and make local friends. My Spanish speaking ability made leaps and bounds and the clinical internship was a great way to practice speaking and learn skills in a very hands-on environment. View my video ...Ecuador
	Rachel Wanty Washington State University The homestay experience has been incredible. I am so fortunate to have been welcomed not only into a home, but also into a family! The cultural aspects I have learned and the memories that I have made are permanent; and my language abilities have improved much faster thanks to the patience and help from my family. This experience has been and will be one of my fondest memories of Ecuador. Thank you again for all of your help! Your hard work made a huge difference in my experience in Ecuador. I am truly thankful for all of the work and worry that you put into our group of students.
View video...	Fred Weller Colorado State University - Denver I'm doing great. Classes are exactly what I need, host family is terrific, and Ecuador is beautiful! I'm planning to stay in Ecuador for the summer and possibly longer. I don't want to leave South America.
	Melissa Byas University of South Florida I loved my experience. Ecuador was amazing. The classes and internship helped me realize that international affairs is a career I will find most rewarding. Everyone at KEI helped me come closer to achieving my future goals. Claudia (KEI Onsite Director) was wonderful, like a mom. She made me feel at home. If anything were to happen, I had someone to call for assistance.
	Ronald Tiboni King's College This program was a once in a lifetime experience. I will always cherish it. Thanks to the KEI staff. I am grateful.
	Rozalin Nikia John Hopkins University I was able to learn about many illnesses and preventive health measures which are prevalent in Ecuador. In the afternoons, I was treated to three hours of Spanish classes with some of the most fantastic teachers I have ever had. I never expected to learn as much Spanish as I did in such a short time!
	Jessica Borrell University of Pittsburgh I had fallen in love with Ecuador. I left the country with my initial impression confirmed; the biodiversity and landscape were breathtaking, and my host family and new friends were incredible. Studying abroad was one of my most significant and enjoyable experiences, and I cannot wait to return. KEI did a wonderful job.

ENGLAND (UK): London
	Samantha Russell William Woods University I can't believe the things I have experienced while being abroad. I honestly wouldn't trade this experience for anything in the world. My life is forever changed because of this opportunity. I am thanking God every single day for the chances I get to take. There are so many things I will miss once I leave London... Read Samantha's blog.
	Stephanie Morgan Florida Atlantic University Studying abroad was always a dream of mine but it seemed far fetched for a student who was supporting herselves through her studies, but then I found out about KEI. KEI offered an awesome program in the heart of London for a great price. I thoroughly enjoyed being able to explore London and other parts of Europe while earning credit towards my degree. KEI staff was helpful throughout the process of getting ready and during my stay in London. The lessons I learned in my summer abroad have changed my entire life and opened me up to the possibility of exploring more of the world. If it weren't for KEI's commitment to affordable and quality study abroad programs, I would never have been able to have this life changing experience. I am forever thankful to KEI for my time in London and all the good it has done for me. When I left the USA to study in London it was my first time leaving home. Now I have visited 5 continents and pursuing a masters degree abroad. Thanks, KEI!
	Aime Ntawukulityayo Augsburg College My internship experience in London was empowering. I had never worked in environment that was so diverse: people from Ethiopia, Germany, France, etc. I loved the idea of being responsible of projects and exploring it alone. I worked on the projects and had weekly meetings with my boss to present. That was challenging and yet empowering! This internship made me realize that the city itself enhanced my work experience. The diversity of a city is crucial for me to keep growing. In London, immigrant communities contribute to a multicultural city compared to Minneapolis (where I live).
	Joey Mansfield Clark Atlanta University I strongly believe that every experience in life is what you make it. Having the opportunity to live in London and travel Europe for six months has been nothing short of amazing! Participating in the KEI program has been a great adventure, and one that I will always cherish. The wonder of London mixed with the unique intellectuals I have become acquainted with during my time here has been a life changing experience. Thank you.
	Matt Cassara Marist College Studying at South Bank University is one of the best decisions I have made. The people, the location - everything here is great. A friend and program alum recommended this program to me, and I would definitely recommend it to my friends!
	Colin Johnson Campbellsville University Studying in London allowed me to experience a wide variety of cultures and see many things, all in one place. Due to the language and cultural familiarity, I think London is a good study abroad option for those who have not yet traveled abroad. I am grateful for this opportunity and your support. Read Colin's blog.

FRANCE: Paris
	Perla Maldonado University of Houston Paris was a remarkable experience which I will never forget. Your time and effort made the process simple and the program enjoyable. Thank you for this opportunity.
	Fatima Benaffane University of Houston Paris is a very diverse place which I did not think it was. People are very friendly and willing to help if you just ask politely.
	Jordan Brown Capital University I think about Paris every day and my time spent there remains to be the best memory of my life. Particularly, our day we spent in Bourgogne, eating cheese and saucisson with wine at Patrick's lovely home and walking around Chablis with my shoes off and taking a nap next to the stream. Thank you so much for those great memories.
	Shannon McGautha Texas Southern University The program is a great opportunity for students that are interested in International Business. Thank you for the opportunity to learn a new and interesting culture and know exactly what area of study I will be pursuing for grad school.

INDIA: Pune
	Christina Luu University of California - Irvine India is like no other country. Anyone who is interested in something new, different, and seeking out adventure, should choose India. It's this large Asian metropolis with cities that wrap around different forests and jungles. The cities have shopping and things you would find in Europe. KEI has truly met all of my expectations and so much more. I thought I was just going to be dropped off in India, but KEI staff gets to know you and you get to know them. They really care about your experience.
View video...	Geoff Haskell Emerson College On Friday the 3rd of September, we celebrated Krishna's birthday. As the story goes, when Krishna was an infant he used to break the pot of curd in his home to drink it. Ergo, people go out to the streets and dance, and make human pyramids to break a pot of curd tied on a rope. See my video. India is different and exciting.

IRELAND: Dublin
	Morgan Napier University of Kentucky My semester in Ireland was more than just an educational opportunity. It was an opportunity to immerse into a new culture, travel, and form life long friendships with people from all over the world. KEI provided the guidance and structure that I was looking for in a program, as well as preplanned trips that allowed me to see some of Ireland's greatest treasures. KEI gives you the support and resources to explore the world and learn in ways that a classroom will never be able.
View video...	Chelsea Duke University of Tennessee - Chattanooga Apart from missing my family, Thanksgiving in Ireland was one for the books... Although our Thanksgiving dinner was a little unorthodox, it was delicious all the same. We had a few traditional items: chicken, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. We also had a few international treats; our French friends brought miniature croque monsieu sandwiches, and my roommate made a Lebanese dish. Read more of my blog and view my video.
View video...	James Kleine-Kracht University of Kentucky I have been having a blast here in Dublin! Everything is going better than expected and I am just so glad I was able to be a part of this program. I would be honored if you read my blog and view my video....
View video...	Emily Sciacca University of Houston Studying abroad at Griffith has brought a lot of experience that I will use for the rest of my life. I made a lot of great freinds who I can use as contacts if I decide to travel back to Europe. I am really glad I did it. View my video...
View video...	Katlyn Barnes University of Tennessee - Chattanooga I am from Tennessee. The hardest transition was learning my way around the city. I am from a small town so I am not used to big cities with buses, taxis and lots of street signs. View my video...
View video...	Mary Ochiltree Washington State University Ireland was absolutely amazing! KEI did a great job making sure we were well prepared in advance and then had the outlets for support while we were there. The price was lower than any other program and it was well worth the cost! I will definitely put the word out there about the KEI program. Thanks for everything!! View my video...
	Amelia Metier University of Oregon Things are going very well. The Onsite Director is great. I have made good friends with others in the program and I really enjoyed working at the radio station. I have a lot of free time here - I am finding ways to have fun. Thanks for all the help!
	Mark Druhet University of Houston I greatly appreciated all the calls and information from the KEI team before my departures. Also, the opportunity itself was the greatest thing I have experienced thus far. I hope to keep this relationship alive for a long time to come.
	Shannon Cunningham Central Washington University I studied fashion merchandising in Dublin, Ireland! I created a blog to document the awesome journeys and to share with anyone who cares to know! I traveled frequently, learned and experienced everything possible, and acquired an Irish accent :) Read my blog!
View video...	Ryan Conboy Marist College What I like most about Griffith is the international students. Living with a French roommate and getting to know his culture... it's fantastic. My most memorable experience is being able to visit Hope, a small fishing village. Its one of the first things we did here as a group. The best tip I have is to be yourself and try to meet as people. Everyone is really friendly. View my video...
View video...	Kathleen Kubek University of Tennessee - Chattanooga What I like most about Griffith is the location because it is close to the city center. We have access to everywhere throughout the city. My favorite event has been surfing at Lahinch, a small town in Ireland. We got to surf and hangout with everyone. It's just a lot of fun. View my video...
	Janessa Gates University of Kentucky This weekend was another adventure in the land of the Irish. It began with my Friday history class where we walked around downtown to some of the historic buildings in Dublin including my first castle! We walked around for a few hours soaking up all the history before us. The day ended with a pregame at my place with some new German friends we met earlier in the week. We went to the pubs and danced in the streets outside of Temple Bar listening to some locals sing and play the guitar. On Saturday we woke up and started with an on-off tour of Dublin city that was prepaid by KEI. We got to see all the parks, major streets, the presidents house, Phoenix park, the train station, Dublin prison, and much more. We went into the Old Jameson Distillery on Bow Street. Read more of my blog...

ITALY: Milan
	Emma Trindel SUNY Oneonta My study abroad in Italy was one of the best experiences of my college career. Not only did I study at Instituto Europeo di Design, one of the top fashion schools in Italy, but I got to experience living in one of the fashion centers of Europe. I took the fashion stylist course with Bruno, who was an awesome teacher, knew a lot about fashion and was one of my main inspirations. For the final project we designed a photo-shoot and worked with a professional model, which was an opportunity that you would rarely get. I was surrounded by people from Italy and other countries who are serious about fashion. Our Onsite Director, Andrea, was so nice! He had a great sense of humor and you could ask him anything about Italy. Each week we met up once or twice for an activity or excursion, which were all educational and fun. One of my favorite activities was Corso Como and the fashion district. I would recommend this program for sure!
	Brittany Wentworth Central Washington University Italian for Fashion is excellent. Elissabetta, our teacher, is amazing! Made in Italy with Marco Richetti is also an excellent class. The professor took us on a couple class field trips. It is awesome being taught by legitimate professionals currently in the field.
	Nicole Elise Wells Eastern Kentucky University Milan was a dream come true. As a fashion capital - one of the Big Four - there were plenty of things to do. I participate in Fashion Week. It was easily one of the coolest things I've experienced in life so far. KEI and IED provided us with exclusive (FREE) tickets to shows for big designers, and we even had opportunities to work backstage. I also went to the Euroleague Basketball Final Four Championship, which was awesome. Milan is also a great starting point for travel in Europe. There are several low-fare airlines that make travel inexpensive. If you do it right, you can go on a weekend trip to Paris for just 56 euro (18 euro each way, plus 20 euro for a hostel). Professors at the Institute of European Design (IED) are phenomenal. Not only do they know their content, they actually work in the field. My photography teacher, Pierro, has been working for Armani for over a decade. Pierro is very humble, and he only disclosed that information in context, but he is Armani's preferred photographer. The teachers also care. Pierro took time one evening to take students shopping for equipment, making sure that we got the best deals. I always wanted to study abroad, but I did not think it was possible for me since I transferred schools and changed majors. The great thing about KEI is that the programs really offer classes that count toward your academic requirements. KEI was also very helpful, making sure to offer tips or advice throughout all stages of the process. Andrea, the Onsite Director, chose our weekly cultural activities to accommodate our different personalities so that we would each have a fantastic experience. Studying abroad was definitely my favourite college experience, and I would recommend it to everyone.
	Megan Davis SUNY Oneonta Studying abroad in Milan was the opportunity of a lifetime. I made great friends, attended a university that broadened my horizons in the fashion world and will be an experience that I will cherish forever.

JAPAN: Akita
	Shanice Tolbert Central Washington University I'm learning so much about Japanese culture. I'm trying to become involved in clubs, but it's hard to pick one with all the options available. I also hung out with the British kids and this guy from Portugal. The Finnish students are nice too. I wanna do anything and everything. I'm really enjoying myself.
	Codi Groves Point Loma Nazarene University My semester in Akita was amazing! Akita is perfect if you want to really experience Japan and the deep culture of the country. The university is a great place to learn Japanese language and offers many courses in English with Japanese students. The KEI Director really helped us adjust to life in Japan. I really loved Akita.
	Tyler Arvin Eastern Kentucky University Akita reminds me of home. I may be thousands of miles away from family but I'm not alone. The people on campus and in public are very nice and helpful. I'm surrounded by people who have become my friends. This was my first experience living in a dorm and I've enjoyed it so far. The classes are fun, interesting and interactive. Yuka (KEI Director) is great and has a wonderful personality. The excursions were amazing. To see and enjoy other aspects of Japan allowed me to appreciate my time here. I absolutely love Akita and Japan.

KENYA: Nairobi
	Elizabeth Manuel SUNY Oneonta My internship at Nairobi National Park, Animal Orphanage is amazing. I get to work with all types of wildlife. Many of the animals were brought here by park rangers. It is our responsibility to nurse them to health and release them back in the wild. Thank you for this amazing opportunity. I put a lot of pictures on my Facebook. Feel free to take a look.
	Joy Gannaway University of South Carolina Africa was great. After being back for almost a month its still weird to think about and understand. Ultimately the whole thing was surreal and while it's difficult being back and re-adjusting, I wouldn't trade my Study Abroad for the world. While I was there I did school 4 days a week, traveled with my program most weekends, and on my off weekends, I was watching movies in the dorms and doing volunteer work in orphanages, the church, or just hanging-out. I saw lions, beautiful beaches, some seriously cool people (the Maasai) and made some really awesome new friends. Read more of my blog.
	Morgan Brown SUNY New Paltz Nairobi is amazing! Everyone has been great. Thank you for setting up this program the way it's been set up. It's all been so easy to settle in--between our program cost covering our health insurance and fees, to including within it a lot of traveling that's already paid for. It's been great, and I already dread having to leave. It seems like every day is so exciting that I can't help but try to write it all down. I have a blog about my experiences. Do read about my adventures!
	Bailey McGuinness George Washington University Patrick (KEI Onsite Director) was easy to find or contact if I needed something or had any questions. He was very knowledgeable, kind and accessible. He was a positive part of my KEI experience. Patrick is wonderful! The girls in Kenya participate more in class discussions than in the USA. It was really nice and refreshing - an interesting cultural difference. There were many more group projects, class presentations and discussions than at my school from home. It is a much more interactive and involved learning process. I liked it. I was really glad to be on campus. It made it easier to meet people and I felt like I was in the center of everything.
	Hannah Heebner University of Michigan I enjoyed my time in Kenya more than I can express. I loved the people that I met, and I learned some valuable life lessons that I really don't think I could have gained in another way. Thank you so so much for everything you did for me this summer, and just for being a support system back in the US. It was such a comfort to know you were there if we ever needed something.
	John Ott University of South Carolina I really love this place. I've seen things I've never seen before--like lion cubs nursing at Massai Mara, elephants, giraffes--and it's a really fun place. It feels very free. The classes are excellent, too. I'm taking a class on marriage and even a class on death, dying, and bereavement, which reminds me to live my life to the fullest. I've made many friends and even have a cute girlfriend from Zimbabwe now. Thank you very much for helping me get to Kenya, for I am receiving an education that spans three continents as well as allowed me to meet people from all over the world. Just the other day my Zimbabwe girlfriend, a Sudanese boy from Australia, and myself went to a Hindu temple here and participated in the festival. The cultural differences and similarities I am learning--well, I am extremely fortunate to have been given such an opportunity.
	Sally Bowen Viterbo University I feel that our program compared to other American students staying in Kenya was the best because everything was so well planned and there was so much to do. We experienced much more of the country than the other students. The excursions and Patrick (KEI Onsite Coordinator) were great. There was not anything that I did not enjoy about the program.
	Julie Mellin Santa Clara University Kenya is a beautiful place and I would love to go back. The people in Kenya were incredibly kind and generous. It was great having the opportunity to study in Kenya and meet so many people who ended up becoming great friends, and also to travel to so many amazing places that most Americans would never dream of. I know it sounds cheesy, but there was actually a moment when I was sitting with some friends and I just turned and said "I think deciding to come here was honestly the best decision of my life." I can't believe I ever considered not coming.
	Jill Hansen University of South Carolina Great value, good experience, beautiful country. Kellen (International Students Officer) literally took my hand and walked me through every step of the registration process.

PERU: Lima & Cuzco
	Jacqueline Lujan University of Colorado - Denver Lima is a wonderful place for someone to live and study. USIL professors are excellent and the campus offers many opportunities to learn Spanish and engage with the local community. The KEI Program Manager and Onsite Director are amazing. The orientation was very thorough and helpful. The KEI Director is a helpful and kind person who knows everything about the city and available when needed. Thank you.
	Heather Caccese, Krystina Carlisle, Crystal Seamon, Jacob Emmanuele & Steve Kane Niagara University (USIL program) We are all very much enjoying our stay here. It was everything expected and more. This is such a beautiful city and we discover new things every day. The jobs are going well, we are all being treated very well. Casa Don Ignacio has been great to us. They are ready and willing to help us whenever we need it. We feel very safe and comfortable here. The tours/activities are also going very well. Last weekend we went white water rafting and it was amazing! we all had such a good time. We are very excited for the upcoming activities. Thank you very much.
	Christopher Mundiath LaSalle University Life in Lima is great! I'm so thankful for the opportunity KEI has given me. Classes are going well, the Don Ignacio housing is nice and the KEI Director does a great job at helping us out. We've already been to a bunch of places in and around Lima. I talked to Taylor (KEI Program Manager) about staying another semester here... I'm really liking it and I think it would be nice if I could!
	Fred Berrocales Universidad del Este-Carolina (Puerto Rico) Last semester I had the opportunity to meet two students from Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola and they told me about this marvelous country. With regard to my studies in the Hospitality Management Program, I can say that the professors are well qualified and have a good methodology and academic experience.

RUSSIA: Moscow
	James.Burke University of North Carolina, Charlotte I am currently in Moscow and wanted to share my photo album. Take a look.
View video	Cody White West Virginia University My name's Cody White and I have always dreamed of visiting Russia. Setting foot in the country, however, was not enough: I wanted to experience Russia in a different way. So, I decided to set out to Moscow and... touch Russia. You can also view my interview with Prime Time Russia.
	Natalie Siddique Boston University Life is Moscow is phenomenal! This has been an amazing, amazing experience. What it comes down to is the undeniable existence of 'Russianness.' There are certain features that make this place, these people, this life unique to no end. It's certainly not the West but it's also not the East. Instead, it's some crazy, unpredictable, well-intended, bundle of life — still stuck behind in advancement but so much further in the embracement of humanity and happiness. I have actually been blogging about my trip in Moscow since the day I left the states. In it are my personal thoughts, observations, and lots of photos. Take a look if you're interested!
	Steven Flynn Central Washington University Things are going great in Russia! I am having the time of my life. The excursions have been enlightening. My Russian language course is kicking my butt! But I am learning so much, being challenged on my level. This has been a great experience.
	Meredith Rawls Harvey Mudd College Why Study in Moscow? Video Part 1;   Video Part 2
	Jake Wilson University of Illinois - Chicago Moscow has been an amazing experience to say the least. There are certainly the share of ups and downs (like any living cycle), but I am so very happy I have had the chance to see, study, interact with, and relate to everything in Russia. Just the other weekend I was at the State Tretakov looking at pieces by Ivanov and Vereshchagin (one particularly striking painting of a pile of skulls in a desert), and was just in awe of all the art and history that I had missed out on until now. Two weeks ago I was in Kazan with the KEI group visiting the large collection of both Orthodox churches and mosques in the capital of Tartarstan. And just the other day, my friends Francesca from Switzerland and Luke from Boston were eating kartoshka from kiosks in the university square overlooking the city. I feel as alive as I did when I first moved to Chicago. If not more. There are a thousand (well, let's say at least 55; one for every day) stories like these I would like to share with you and other students. Thank you and hope all is well with the KEI crew. Paka!
	John Reid Virginia Tech University Professor Bogdonov is essentially a human encyclopedia of Russian politics. I took notes on nearly every sentence he spoke. Who knew a 3-hour lecture could be so interesting?!?
	Justin Huff University of South Carolina The internship is killer. I am an investor relations intern at a new, but very respectable firm. We are doing work for RZD, the largest railroad company in Russia.

SCOTLAND: Edinburgh
	Victoria Lepham University of Houston Although I was part of the first KEI group to study in Edinburgh, I had the best time of my life and it was the epitome of my college experience. Excursions were great since I got to explore all over Scotland and Clare (KEI Director) was consistently helpful and attentive. Thank you KEI for making such a program affordable.
	Kathryn Raybould New Mexico State University The program was fantastic. Everyone was helpful and welcoming. Clare was a terrific onsite director. She helped with problems and was always available. The excursions Clare planned were wonderful. I enjoyed my time abroad and can't wait to go back.
	Krista Druen Eastern Kentucky University A Kentuckian in Scotland I should have started this blog awhile back, but late is better than never, right? I'm finally having some time to sit back and reflect on my first few weeks here in Scotland. First off, I'll explain my blog title, I can't resist a (good) terrible pun. I am staying in Galashiels, which is often referred to as "Gala". And I'm studying fashion design here. So there you have it. :) Galashiels is a town of about 22,000 people, and it's known for textile production. Which explains why Heriot-Watt's design campus is here. It's quite charming. Everyone I've met here has been very welcoming and willing to help with anything I need. I was told I might struggle with understanding the accents, but I haven't had too much trouble. Except for when I call a cab. I suppose since I can't see their lips moving it's a bit more difficult. I just wing it, ha-ha. All of the majors on this campus are related to fashion design. Womenswear, Menswear, Textiles, Fashion Technology, Fashion Communication, you name it. Because my major at home is much broader than that, I was able to pick and choose from each of the programs to work for me. I'm so excited about my classes. I 've already done so many new things. I definitely feel challenged in my classes, and I mean that in the best way. I didn't know how to use Adobe Illustrator a week ago and now I've designed a collection on it! I can't wait to bring this to life. Sometimes it randomly hits me that I've travelled almost 4,000 miles away from home. Which is awesome. The world is so big with so much to see. I've been on a few different excursions which I'll post more about ASAP! Read more of my blog.

SPAIN: Barcelona
	Nicole Selsov University of Massachusetts The New York staff were very prompt in answering questions, willing to help (even silly questions!) and understanding. The school was international and I learned so much about the world and different cultures.
	Travis Lester Clark Atlanta University Everything in Barcelona is fantastic. The professors are very knowledgeable of the subject matter. I am enjoying the courses and learning to speak Spanish quickly. The on-site staff has been very helpful throughout my stay.
	Julianna Sanchez Point Loma Nazarene University The planned excursions are GREAT and our onsite coordinator is AMAZING! We have a lot of fun on each excursion and we all can not wait until we go to Madrid. We love it in Barcelona.
	Chris O'Dea Graduate Student I thoroughly appreciate your help. I am very appreciative of your services. You've been attentive and helpful ever since the first day I contacted KEI and I'll always be grateful. Thanks again.

TANZANIA: Dar es Salaam
View video...	James Townsend Salisbury University Things are great. My family is more than welcoming and accommodating, and the same goes for Mama Kaaya (KEI Onsite Coordinator). I am having a lot of fun and met some great friends. This weekend I am traveling north to Loshoto with some girls from America I met on campus. Mama Kaaya has given me great advice on the area. I would like to say thank you very much for all your help and patience in making all this happen. I do really appreciate everything KEI has done for me. Coming here is nothing short of a dream I have been anticipating for years and I am very thankful. View my video of a safari.
Read my blog...	Ashley Claussen Central Washington University Words can not describe this experience and all that it has offered to me. I absolutely love my host family and get along with them so well. They treat me like one of their own. I am doing great and having an amazing time! Thank you for making this possible! Read my blog.

THAILAND: Bangkok
	Ashley Ellis Lincoln University My experience in Thailand was beyond incredible, more like life changing. The different places, the food, the people and other aspects of the rich culture in Thailand made my stay there an unforgettable one. View (KEI Onsite Director) played a critical role in making our semester abroad enjoyable and educational. A lot of time and effort was dedicated in planning activities for my peers and I. We visited different beautiful areas, such as the Island of Kho Samet, the Grand Palace, ChiangMai, Bangkok and many other places. I am a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major. So the courses I took were science-based; although I did complete an exciting Thai Language and Culture course. The teaching styles were different but with proper time management, it is more than possible maintain excellent grades while exploring all Thailand has to offer. The KEI program arranged for housing that was conveniently located within walking distance of Mahidol University. The people in the community were very pleasant and accepted us with open arms. Thank you KEI for this amazing program!
	Kevin Roemer Illinois Institute of Technology Thailand is completely amazing. I am meeting so many amazing people and learning tons about the cultural constructs here in Bangkok and greater Thailand. I'm making my way around quite well, and pick things up even faster. Garret (my roommate) and I have hit it off really well and have met quite a few Thai friends who we have been hanging out with a ton. We've done some travelling; we went to Erawan National Park as well as all the trip that you guys at KEI have helped to set up with View. They have been amazing. I thank KEI for putting in so much effort in accommodating us and making sure we are comfortable. From the accommodations to the trips it has all be so wonderful. It seems like we are getting more special treatment than others and I could not thank you more for the experience you have helped to foster. If you are interested in finding out more about what I've been up to. My blog can be found at blog.kevinroemer.com and I also created a website with Brittany Raab to bring insight into Thai culture by showcasing Thai individuals we have had experiences with along the way. You can find that at peopleofthailand.net its really quite interesting. Perhaps you can share it along if you like and follow we are constantly adding more people. Thanks again for everything.
	Luis Galindou New Meixoc State University How did you get that internship? The biggest question people keep on asking me every time I talk about my internship at Preduce. The best way to begin this journal is talking about myself prior to the whole internship deal, or even studying abroad. I am a skateboarder. I started in 2000 when I was 13 years old, so if you do the math I have been skateboarding for 15 years. It is the only sport where I have stayed and have been passionate about. The idea of shooting video of me and my friends skateboarding started. After that I haven’t been able to stay away from cameras. Filmmaking has turned into my profession. Read more... After the decision of moving to Thailand was taken, I immediately went online to type two words on that search engine: Bangkok and Skateboarding. The biggest thing that will come up it’s called Preduce. It is the first skateboard company in Thailand and one of the most important in Asia. In 2016 they will turn 10 years old. They started as a skate shop; now they are the most important distributor in Southeast Asia. They deal with Nike, Vans, Converse, HUF, Billabong, and more. They also take care to create the advertisement for these companies. I got to their Instagram account and wrote them a private message. In this message I told them what I did, what I was going to do, and what we could do together. I told them that no matter what; I was bringing my video equipment and my skateboard to Thailand. So I was more than happy to go on skate missions to get skateboarding footage with the team. That way I could, film, skate, and make new friends. 3 months passed by with no response. So my head had move along from that idea. Miraculously a month before my departure or so, I got an answer from Simon Pellaux (CEO of Preduce) It said of course, come work with us! I mentioned this to my study abroad advisor at New Mexico State University. She was the one that told me this was going to become my internship. This didn’t even cross my mind before. It took me more than 2 weeks to meet the Preduce family. The majority of the team was touring around Asia working on their next skateboarding video. Including my main boss Janchai Montrelerdrasme (audiovisual productions). The day came for me to head over to the Preduce office. It was one of the longest journeys I have ever taken on a city. I had to take a Taxi to the main campus in Salaya from there, wait for the Salaya/Bang Wa bus to take me to the closest sky train station. From there my ride would take me downtown Bangkok to go bellow to the Metro system and keep on moving until I got to the area where the office is. The whole ride is about 2 hours to get there and 2 hours to get back. Through my stay in Thailand I did this more than 20 or 25 times. This might seem like a hassle but the reality is that I learned to move inside and outside the city on my own. Preduce paid for my traveling expenses the whole stay. My first meeting was a success. I shook hands with two of the owners of Preduce and three of their professional riders. My first assignment was given to me. Every year Preduce with the sponsorship of Billabong organizes the Thai Skate Game. They pick the 12 best skateboarders in Thailand and fly them to Bangkok. Then they battle it out in a tournament of tricks on flat ground only. In that meeting we discussed how we were going to put the show together. The main idea was to make everything look like their national sport, Muay Thai. I gave some ideas to create a fighting rink. We talked about the logos used and color pallet for the tournament. And off I was with the mission of shooting a commercial for Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook announcing the 12 skateboarders, place, and date of the tournament. I knew I wanted to do a commercial that had nothing to do at all with skateboarding, so I visited a Muay Thai GYM. Struggling a bit with the language barrier I arranged to shoot inside the facility, using people who regularly train there. Everything was free of charge so Preduce was very happy that they didn’t spend money on this piece for advertising. The commercial was a huge success. I got very good feedback from friends, family, the Thai skate scene, Preduce and most important of all, Billabong. At the end of my stay they gave me money for my hard work. My next assignment was to shoot video the day of the event. I met a lot of really cool people. My main job was to get reactions of the crowd and what we call in sports “color” these are things to put when the audience is not seeing the main event. Janchai and another filmer took care of the actual tricks. After we gathered the footage, the next step was to edit it. That was the hardest most consuming time of my assignment. I easily doubled my internship hours editing each one of the battles. It was a weekly thing to have the games on the Billabong Asia Facebook page. Not only was I editing 3 cameras per gam, but I had to wait for feedback on changes, color correction, etcetera. The hardest part of all of this was the fact that I did not have a laptop in Thailand. I was very confident that my school (being a film school) would have a computer lab just like in the US. I was only allowed to edit between classes in a classroom or with the permission of the other teachers. The rooms were closed at 6pm. The original score for the intro in the Thai Skate Game battles was by a band called Gallo Silver from my hometown in Juarez, Mexico. In my next meeting I explained to my bosses at Preduce that I wanted to do something for the company. Since their 10 year anniversary is right around the corner. I proposed to shoot and edit a documentary about Bangkok, skateboarding and Preduce. The rest of my stay was to follow everybody I could with my camera. I had wireless microphones on them and followed them on their typical day life and on their missions getting tricks around the enormous city of Bangkok. This internship has not yet finished for me since I am still working on post production through hours and hours of footage of interviews, the city, skateboarding tricks, pictures, etc. This documentary will also be available for KEI to use for their website. With the help of my fellow Thai classmates, I directed a commercial for HUF, a worldwide important skate shoe company. The commercial follows Levi Adams, an Australian skateboarder living in Thailand, throughout the city. There is one-30 second version of the commercial available on YouTube; it has not been released by HUF yet. The amount of golden footage we gathered that day allows me to make a 2 to 3 minute edit for a full video part for Levi and HUF. The original score in this commercial is performed by H3xthree. They are a Thai Reggae band that I met during my stay. In appreciation for them letting me use their music I shot a music video for them that right now is also in line to get edited, color corrected and released. There are things in my internship that I am really proud of have accomplished. I guess an example was when I was told to get any gear I wanted from their store or their warehouse at their office. Skateboards, shoes, clothing, pick anything you need and take it. I’ve always felt a lot of respect for the people who don’t grab things because they are told so. I don’t like to take. I like when people give. Until the last month of my stay and numerous times that my boss told me to get new shoes, one day he just started giving me product. I didn’t pick anything up. That feeling really fulfilled me. It was like Christmas because I didn’t know what I was getting. A very important thing that happened in this internship was that I met real people. I made friends, friends who let me stay at their place, eat their food, and most important of all keep me inspired day by day. Even when I left the city to Chiang Mai to a road trip with KEI, there were friends I met at the Thai Skate Game. They showed me their city. I made new friends in that other city. They took good care of me. I will always have them in my mind and in my heart. My last night in Bangkok I stayed at Simon Pellaux’s house. We did his interview in his apartment and his neighborhood. I told them that I was sad because I was leaving Thailand without a Preduce tattoo. He got on the phone with the art director of Preduce and in a couple of minutes we were on a taxi. Simon told me that they never even thought about having an intern in their company. He told me that next day; their second intern was going to start working with them. She comes from Finland he said. I feel good because I have the honor of being the first one of many. We stopped at one of the most prestigious tattoo shops in Bangkok. I got the logo of their last full-length skate video, SAWASDEE for free. The tattoo consists of two hands put together. This is the Thai way to say hello, and goodbye. So we go back to the main question of this journal. The question people keep asking me. How did I get this internship? It’s not really that complicated. I just asked. There is something they don’t teach us in school or sometimes even our parents, which is to knock on doors and shake hands. Sometimes we think that the opportunities will appear to us like magic. This sometimes happens and I have witnessed it. But the reality is that things taste better when you hunt them yourself.
	Justin Siu University of California, San Diego Life in Thailand is Wonderful! The excursions have been so fun and the scenes so beautiful. View my photo album...
	Shannon Nichole Rebecca Casto Davis & Elkins College Yep: things are going great! Rebecca and I are loving our classes. We had a good day with View (KEI Director) yesterday at the Royal Temple and a few Wats. However, my favorite part of the day was, upon coming back from dinner, we saw Tierra and one of the female staff here out playing some badminton in the street. We took the opportunity and joined them, and had a blast! Sean and Cashauna played some, as well. It was a great getting to know the staff a bit better -- giggles are a common language! Read our blog...
	Cashana Hudson Lincoln University Thailand is great. Very different in almost every way, but at the same time it allows us to see the world in another light besides our American way of thinking and doing things. I am really enjoying Thailand. View (KEI Director) is so sweet and she tries her hardest to make sure we all are enjoying ourselves. Today is Quin's birthday and yesterday was Amanda's birthday and View came over with cake and ice cream so it turned into a mini birthday party which was nice. Last weekend we all went to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and we had a blast! We did so much, but my favorite had to riding the elephant and visiting the white temple.
	Maya Hochberger Smith College I absolutely love KEI. I compared KEI with CIS and AsiaLearn and not only is it cheaper, you get much much more for your money. KEI makes sure students are well informed and looked after before and during their study abroad experience. And, teh cultural excursions were well prepared and amazing. I want to thank KEI and View (KEI Onsite Director), for everything you did for me. I will continue to promote KEI to everyone I know. If only you offered a grad school program and I promise I would be the first to apply. Thank you again!
	Stephanie Littman Auburn University I love Thailand! I just got back from the best weekend. My roommates and a bunch of kids from Germany, Italy and Netherlands went to a place called RCA, a street lined with dance clubs. The next day we spent shopping at JJ Market. I love my [clinical] internship. Each week my schedule changes and I shadow someone different. This week I work at Siririja Hospital in the mornings and go to Pinklao OPD in the afternoons. The staff is extremely helpful and very young so I felt very comfortable with them. Also I have lots of interaction with the patients so that was very nice. I have met so many awesome Thai students. The people are more than hospitable. They also love to practice their English. Read my blog...
	Megan Leberknight West Virginia University We have been non-stop with school and all our travels. There were so many professors from so many different places at the University, so they knew a lot about many subjects. I am definitely having an amazing time, and I love it even more every time I think about all the snow and freezing weather back home!
	Laura Reynolds University of Rochester Your program changed my life!
	Duane Simpfenderfer Point Loma Nazarene University I loved the program. It was awesome. The office staff, international friends, accommodations, school, everything. I wish I were still in Bangkok. I want to go back!!!
	Richard Horn Harvey Mudd College First off, Thailand was an amazing, eye-opening experience that has changed my life permanently. I have really learned so much about myself and what makes all the cultures around the world the same, I loved the experience. So a big thanks to KEI for my study abroad. The international relations office is exemplary, they are so friendly and helpful. Thank you for a life changing 7 months. I will recommend to all my friends to study through KEI.
	Caroline Senungi Augsburg College This was a GREAT, AMAZING program in which I met the most amazing people. It was an unforgettable experience, sometimes hard to put into words. So thank you, KEI, for this program. I will recommend it!

TURKEY: Istanbul
	Nasri Mohamed Augsburg College I am loving my stay in Istanbul. I feel like I've done so much and seen so much already. Very excited for the near future. Feeling very welcome and KEI is helping me adjust quite well.
	Hunter Street University of North Carolina - Charlotte We appreciate everything you did for Hunter (KEI student) while he was in Istanbul. Hunter absolutely flourished during this experience - he loved it. Istanbul is in his bones now. Certainly, the people he met while he was there have an awful lot to do with why this experience was so special for him. Istanbul is just an awesome city, and Cappadocia, Pamukkale and Ephesus was visually spectacular and educationally interesting. Thanks for everything, and best wishes. Jenny (parent)