Learn About Study Abroad in Aix-en-Provence From A CEA Student

Bonjour ! My name is Jenna Thornton and I am a former CEA student and current intern with the CEA study abroad program in Aix-en-Provence, France. I came to Aix in the summer of 2004 with the CEA program and had one of the best experiences of my life! Aix is such a gorgeous city and Vivienne and Karen made it possible for us to experience so many fascinating aspects of Provence that since the time I left I had always wanted to come back. I returned to Aix this past fall as an English teaching assistant working in a French high school. I am delighted to have the opportunity to be helping out in the CEA office a couple days each week with social and cultural activities for the students. It is exciting to help the current students discover and experience the splendor of Provence and I am happy to once again be a part of the CEA program.

We have been having a very exciting spring semester here in Aix so far! Here is sample of some of the various CEA sponsored social and cultural activities that we have done thus far...

Tour of Puyricard Chocolaterie
When you mix two fantastic elements like France and chocolate, how can you not have a great time? Eight students and I recently took a short trip to the charming village of Puyricard just north of Aix where one the most celebrated chocolateries of the region makes its heavenly treats. As we were taken on a tour of the factory, we were able to see (and taste!) how they make their calissons (the specialty of Aix) and all of their various delectable chocolates. As it was getting closer to Easter, all the workers were in full swing making everything from huge chocolate eggs to hand decorated chocolate bunnies and other spring delights. After sampling a delicious variety of goodies along the tour, we were then offered a mouth-watering plate of all different kinds of chocolates which I have to admit we devoured!! Needless to say, we returned to Aix extremely content!

Do the Samba Like You Wanna!!
One of my absolute favourite things to do is dance, so I was very excited to accompany a group of CEA students to a Samba Soirée organized by CEA in conjunction with a South-American style restaurant that offers all kinds of dance courses and dance parties here in the heart of Aix. A group of about sixteen students and I celebrated Valentine’s Day with a night of Carnavale-style fun! The night started with a private lesson in the crazy hip-shaking dance of Brazilian street samba. What a class! As someone who has done ballroom style Samba for some years, let me tell you, it was crazy! After working up an appetite, we took a break and enjoyed a enormous assortment of more tapas than we could eat as the live Brazilian band stared to warm up. We worked off our yummy dinner by shimmying and shaking the night away to fantastic music with the large crowd of Aixios partying it up with us. Vive le samba and vive la carnavale!

Meet Marseille
Marseille is the second largest city in France and has many different faces. It can be a bit daunting if you don’t have your bearings. To help the students see some of the prettier sides, I took an eager group of about a dozen students for a sunny Saturday afternoon stroll through the city. We started with a short tour of a savonnerie or soap manufacturer. This, of course, isn’t just any soap. Marseille is world famous for it’s soap industry, which is strictly regulated in regards to a minimum percentage of olive oil, etc. After a bit of learning and exploring, we worked up an appetite, so we headed down to the oldest bakery in Marseille where we each had a giant navette, a biscuit-type goodie that originated in Marseille. After a visit of the Abbey of Saint Victor, we took the scenic route along the Vieux Port to do some shopping on La Canèbiere, two of the most famous areas in Marseille.
Finally, we returned to Aix with a delightful impression of diverse Marseille.

Cowboys and Camargue
Of course, when you think of cowboys, you think of the Wild West, horses, cattle, campfires…things typically American; a drastically different image than when one thinks of chic France. But France is a beautiful country and, although drastically smaller than the U.S., has varied regions and is about just as diverse!! In fact, there are cowboys, called Gardians, in a very unique region in France. We recently did a weekend excursion to this distinctive area, so sit back and relax, and let me share with you picture of this special region.

Nestled in the southern-eastern area of France is a region between Marseille and Montpellier known as Camargue. It is a vast and flat delta, whose namesake can be found throughout France on its’ two famous exports of rice and salt. Upon discovering the Camargue, one is impressed with the bulls or taureaux which roam throughout the 150 bull farms or manades in the area. Beautiful white Camargue horses cannot be kept in barns or stables; they prefer to roam freely throughout the marshy plains among the wild pink flamingos which live in the region as well. During the weekend, we were able to see the bulls up close on a tractor ride through a manade before feasting on the most fabulous traditional provençal lunch. After visiting the picturesque sea-side village of Stes. Maries-de-la-Mer, we had the privilege to explore this magnificent region on horseback through the marshy terrain and view the famous wild flamingos in their natural habitat.

The adventure did not stop there. One usually associates bull fights with Spain, but the South of France has some amazing spectacles as well. They are a bit different though, as the goal is not to kill the bull. We went to a Course Camarguaise in which the raseteurs win by removing ribbons tied onto the bulls horns. We had a beautiful sunny day in the arena to witness this exciting and unpredictable sport. Afterwards, while enjoying another delicious dinner, we saw a fantastic show of flamenco dancing and guitarists!

And you thought France was just wine and cheese…

Carnavale on the French Riviera
Carnavale, which seems to be celebrated worldwide, is celebrated throughout France on different dates in each city. However, the Carnavale capital of France is Nice, which is also the capital of the French Riviera. So CEA had to take the students there for a weekend excursion to the Carnavale Parades of Nice, followed by an exciting time in Monte Carlo and Monaco.

The Parade of Flowers is complete with gorgeous floats, flowers being tossed into the crowd, confetti, music, and all kinds of excitement. Flowers abound in Nice, and the students got to witness this as well at the famous Flower Market. One of my personal favourite things in Nice is the socca. Socca is a niçoise specialty that is like a flatbread made out of chickpea flour and olive oil and is cooked in a special giant pan in a special oven. You can taste it at the large market in Nice or visit the very niçoise Chez Réné which features all kinds of spécialités niçoise, such as farcis niçoise and beignettes des fleurs de courgettes (fried zucchini flowers).

The fun continued in Monte Carlo with dinner, dancing, and bit of gambling for those who were feeling lucky. Of course, one can’t go to Monaco without visiting the luxurious palace or the cathedral where Princess Grace is buried. A royal weekend was had by all.

Top Ten Reasons to Apply for Spring 2009 Study Abroad Now!

Next January may seem far away, but to be able to study abroad next spring there are many things you need to do before departure. Take advantage of the free time you’ll have this summer by taking care of the details required to study abroad now. Many documents take time to process and it is much easier to prepare them while you have some free time rather than while you are taking a full load next fall. Once you are accepted into a program your advisor at CEA will help you take the necessary steps to make preparing for your study abroad a breeze, without cramping your summer style. By applying now you have the ability to lock in the destination and program you want, plus you’ll be first in line for all the perks, like getting the housing you really want. Programs fill quickly so be sure to take advantage of this opportunity.

• Visa processing takes time

  • Get a head start on the process by being prepared. Your advisor will walk you through all the steps needed to make this process go smoothly and as soon as you are accepted, your MyCEA Account will provide you with online tutorials on where to go and who to contact to get your visa.

• Up your chances of your housing requests being met

  • Placement is first come first served! Each city has different housing options: CEA apartments, dorms, or homestays. Make sure that you get your first choice by getting ahead of the crowd.

• Enroll in popular courses that are likely to fill

  • Just like your home institution, there are only a certain number of seats and they fill up fast.

• Be the first to take the leap, your friends will follow

  • Just like you, your friends are waiting to see who is going where. The problem is that if you all wait too long then the programs you want might be full by the time you apply. Be the leader, make the choice and encourage your friends to follow.

• Secure current pricing and avoid the effects of a continued rise in the Euro

  • We all know what is going on with the economy and with the dollar dropping the Euro becomes more expensive. By applying to study abroad now you can lock in the price for your study abroad. You can also start converting dollars to your destination's currency right away and negate any future rise in the value of that currency against the dollar.

• Have ample time to set your own itinerary and make travel plans

  • Your study abroad is the perfect opportunity to travel. You can spend your summer researching and planning the amazing trips you will take during your study abroad: like skiing in the Alps, hopping around Munich, catching the French Open, seeing a soccer match, or attending the Cannes film festival.

• Give your academic advisor time to approve your courses

  • We all know that getting any outside course work approved can be a lengthy process and study abroad is no exception. Give your advisor ample time and it will make both of your lives a lot easier.

• Buy your airfare early and save

  • It’s no secret that the price of flights only gets higher the closer you get to departure and with crude oil at $126 a barrel, fares are only going to rise. Upon acceptance you can book your flight and lock in the lowest price for your airfare.

• Beat the deadline for a CEA scholarship

  • Study abroad is always more fun with extra money in your pocket. By applying now you can gain eligibility to submit for a CEA scholarship.

• Procrastination leads to stress – who needs it???

  • This isn’t the paper you pulled an all nighter on during finals. Get in on study abroad now so you can be excited this fall, not stressed!

CEA Study Abroad Students Intern at Cannes Film Festival

These CEA French Riviera study abroad students were chosen for the experience of a lifetime - an internship at the nationally renowned Cannes Film Festival. See firsthand what they have to say about bumping into Harrison Ford, the red carpet, and this ultimate resume building internship. The opportunity has taught them the logistics of behind the scenes work in addition to communication skills vital to working on the global level. Discover what the Cannes Film Festival is really like through their unique experiences, plus find out about their celebrity encounters.


Isha Vij, University of California - Berkeley


Noah Johnson, University of California - Berkeley


Elise Reid, University of Maryland College Park


Brittany Beran, Clemson University


More from students interning at Cannes

CEA Student Gets Published During Her Study Abroad in Florence

Active learning through hands-on courses and activities is ever-present at the CEA GlobalCampus: Florence. Italy in the Words of British and American Writers is a course that recently allowed CEA students some well-deserved publicity in an Italian online newspaper. Through this unique course students are afforded the unrepeatable opportunity to actively research and retrace the exact steps of such famed American writers as Lord Byron, E.M. Forster, Henry James, Mark Twain, Edith Wharton and Ernest Hemingway in order to explore at first hand the places and events, both real and imagined, that influenced them so greatly as evidenced through their now internationally revered words. The course gets even more “hands-on” as students the 'English' monumental cemetery (where the poets Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Walter Savage Landor and Arthur Hugh Clough are buried), experience a visit to the Casa Guidi (home to the Brownings), participate in a special backstage tour of the libraries and archives of the British Institute of Florence (founded in 1917) led by its archivist and are invited to go behind closed doors to visit the libraries, collections and gardens of Villa I Tatti, once home to the American connoisseur and writer Bernard Berenson. But perhaps last semester’s most impressive output of this course was the publication an article on the poetry of Henry Longfellow written by CEA study abroad student Erika Enggren. Read the article that led her to her 15 minutes of fame by a showcase of her words and thoughts in a popular Italian online news publication.

Use Your Study Abroad to Get The Career You Have Always Wanted

What do all recipients of the US Nobel Prize, Dr. Seuss, John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton all have in common? You guessed it, before establishing their “claim to fame”, they either studied abroad or had an international learning experience that they could taut on their resume.

There is a lot to be said for a study abroad experience – it’s an opportunity to travel, to do something different and “off campus for a term or two during college, it offers transfer credit to your home campus, it aids in the language acquisition process, it just simply makes you a more interesting person!

But there’s something more to it, as evidenced by the trends emerging in corporate and professional settings in terms of qualities that employers seek when reviewing the thousands and thousands of today’s generation’s resumes in circulation. Many of the qualities that “set candidates apart from the pack” are parallel to the qualities that a study abroad experience helps to develop. Think about this. An international or study abroad experience on a resume shows adaptability and flexibility, it shows interest and initiative to explore outside of the “comfort zone”, it shows responsibility for one’s own experiences and success, it shows the ability to communicate in foreign environments, it shows interest or skill in intercultural competency, it shows one’s ability to handle stress in the unknown situation, it shows’ open-mindedness and self-reliance and self-confidence . . . the list goes on and on.

One of the most difficult things to do once you’ve studied abroad and polished your resume, is articulate the experience during a professional interview. This is one of the reasons why CEA has launched the CEA Study Abroad Social Networking site. We wanted to create a forum through which students could of course get acquainted and ask important questions about preparing for the experience of a lifetime. But even beyond that we’re encouraging students to share their stories and advice regarding how they successfully translated the skills they acquired during their study abroad experience to their current academic or professional pursuits. There’s no more authentic way to learn about everything that comes AFTER a program has ended then by reflecting and sharing with those who’ve already begun the practical application of studying abroad.

Running a Marathon While Studying Abroad in France

A post from a student in one of our study abroad programs in France.

On Sunday, April 20th, 2008, when most of my group mates were just getting ready to go to bed, I was waking up before the sun to start stretching. When I arrived in Antibes to study at CERAM-EAI in the French Riviera with CEA, I never thought that at any point I would be running a half marathon, but when Kristin, our director, said that there was a race in Nice, I figured it would be a great idea to get into shape since I wasn't doing any other physical activity. I signed up to do the 10k race, and began to train for it. I'll admit I was setting my sights a little high for it being my first race, but I figured I could do it. After about a month of on-again off-again training, it was finally one week until the race, and my knees were bugging me. I decided to rest that week for the big race, and hope that it was all for the better. Kristin and Gerry picked Noah and I up, and we headed off to the race. We ran in a group and were talking about the possibility of Noah and I continuing after the 10k for the whole half marathon, or 21k, to see if we could do it. I decided by the 4th kilometer that I was going to go the distance, but I did have to finish the 10k first before I could do the whole race. I went through the 10k finish, got back onto the race path, and continued to run. I had to play catch-up with the group because when I finished the 10k, they continued on the path, but I did end up catching up with Noah and almost Kristin, to finish the Marathon in 2:08:42. I was extremely pleased with finishing that quickly, for it being my first race ever and only training for the 10k! The program here has been excellent, especially since I live 50 meters from the Mediterranean sea, but I also think I found a new hobby that I can really appreciate, thanks to the experiences offered by my program. This semester will definitely be one to remember.

Joshua Kearns

CEA French Riviera Sophia Antipolis, Spring 2008

Use This Earth Day to Make a Difference With Your Study Abroad

Earth day is April 22nd. What a perfect opportunity to take stock of what you are doing to make this world a better place for today, and the future! Our melting world is one of many issues that require our generation’s immediate attention, leaving us as individuals with two options: do something about it or wait for someone else to. Just by checking out this blog, I’m guessing you’re not the type of person to sit around wait for somebody else to do something. But did you know, choosing the right study abroad program could be a great place to start.

I wish we could all save the world today. While there are many things we can do today to cope with the existing problems we all face, a more practical approach is to also start building the intellectual foundations necessary to grapple with such complex problems. For example, if you’re interested in learning more about the environmental aspects of global warming you can check out CEA’s Climate Change, Sustainability and Energy Policy study abroad program in Brighton (England) or our Global Warming and Sustainable Development study abroad program in Madrid. But the consequences of this transformation do not solely affect just our planet’s climate. So if you’re inclined to explore the economic and social aspects of global warming, you should consider our Green Collar Business course in Paris or courses like “Environmental Impact and Social Development” or “Tropical Marine Biology” in Costa Rica, among others.

You recycle your soda cans and swap out as many incandescent light bulbs as possible, but your understanding on what role you can play will be incomplete until you actually get out there and see what’s going on. Many of our courses and programs will give you the opportunity to put theory into practice and witness first hand some of the ecological damage already taking place. But it’s the people that matter most. Meeting and hanging out with folks from different parts of the globe is not only fun, it also makes you realize that we can’t resolve any of these problems on our own. This extended amount of time in another country will compel you to redefine human relations, the way our world functions, and your role in it.

Celebrate the Earth by signing up for Green focused courses with CEA. To learn more about your options, give us a call at 1-800-266-4441.

Last chance for Tropical Ecology program in Costa Rica

The Introduction to Tropical Ecology Maymester study abroad program has been very popular among students interested in Ecology, Biology, Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, and Sustainability. It’s also perfect for those simply interested in learning more about the natural world. Currently, the program is still accepting applications, but the deadline is approaching fast.

The program consists of an intensive 3-Week course, taught in English, focused on an introduction to Tropical Ecology. Each day, the class offers two parts - classroom instruction and a field study component. Since Costa Rica hosts more than 5% of the earth’s plant and animal species and 1/3 of the country is protected land, the field studies cover a wide range of topics and incorporate field trips, taking students all around the country (which is slightly smaller than West Virginia).

This program is a beautiful introduction to the study of Tropical Ecology and Costa Rica at large, and is only available through CEA study abroad programs. The program runs from May 17^th to June 7^th. But with CEA, you get more than just an academic program. Check out the full list of what’s included with your program price.

Jillian Peters, a 2007 program participant says, “This is wonderful trip for those wishing to experience the real beauty of Costa Rica. We explored off of the beaten track and saw the diversity of the whole country.”

To get started, call 1-800-266-4441 and you’ll be assigned your very own enrollment advisor to help you through every step of the application and course pre-approval process. This is one program that you don’t want to miss!

Apply Now to Study Abroad and Win Free Airfare to Europe this Summer

The next 25 completed applications will be automatically eligible to win*! Apply now for any of our summer study abroad programs in Europe and be eligible to win free airfare to your destination of study**. Picture it - this summer you could be studying art in the beautiful French countryside of Provence. Let your artistic skills marinate with the picturesque surroundings of the south of France. Maybe your major is Business, Economics, or Political Science . . . our programs in Berlin this summer cater to the aspiring professional looking to play a leading roll in the geopolitical landscape of the future. Perhaps earning credits toward your degree in Marketing while spending your time in the embrace of the summer sun and exciting landscape of Barcelona is more to your liking. No matter what your major, CEA has a study abroad program and destination that will fit your needs.

Once the 25th eligible application is submitted, CEA will randomly select one entry to receive free airfare through CEA’s travel partner, AdTrav.

But remember this offer is only available for a limited time, so act fast before time runs out!
Apply Online Now

*Must apply to one of CEA’s 2008 Summer programs in Europe and must use promo code “EuroAir08” - Click to view official Rules

CEA Announces Winner in The Study Abroad Photography Contest

And the winner is . . . . . Jedd Ticar currently studying with CEA in Granada, Spain! Jedd’s winning entry was #19 in a line-up of 21 incredible study abroad photo albums. With an overwhelming 870 votes, Jedd’s album won her the $250 grand prize and a showcase in the 2009-2010 CEA Viewbook, being distributed on campuses next year all over the US! Congratulations Jedd! With views of downtown Granada, incredible shots of the Albaicin, views of Seville and Cordoba during CEA sponsored excursions and the amazing celebrations that take place in Granada during Semana Santa, this winning album is not to be missed.

Our 2008 spring students exceeded our expectations and submitted 21 albums, full of stunning shots of their host cities, their excursion experiences and more. Almost 2,500 votes were cast over the course of the voting week! As all photos were taken through our students’ own perspectives, it’s obvious that studying abroad means something personal and something different to everyone. We loved seeing shots from Buenos Aires, Paris, Granada, Cork, the French Alps, Florence, the French Riviera, Aix-en-Provence, Rome, Seville, London, San Jose, Sydney and Barcelona, representing more than half of CEA’s 26 study abroad destinations around the globe!

By the way, the 1^st runner up was the Aix-en-Provence entry #13 album, shot by Christina Reynier with 759 votes.

View the winning photo album on the CEA Study Abroad Photography Blog. Thanks to everyone who submitted and voted. The summer photography contest will begin in July, so look on the CEA website for details about voting!

Vote Now! CEA Spring 2008 Study Abroad Photography Contest

The submissions are in – Now it’s time to vote for the winner. They say a picture is worth a thousand words – it’s also worth $250 for one of our talented student photographers.

Our 2008 spring students have taken some amazing shots this semester. Now they’ve been challenged to compete for the winning photo album, and they want you to cast your vote!

Picture studying abroad . . . the amazing beauty of the Alhambra in Granada . . . the blanket of lavender in the countryside of Aix-en-Provence . . . the majestic ancient architecture of Rome . . . the world-renowned opera house of Sydney. Don’t take our word for it – see for yourself all that study abroad has to offer through this unique compilation through our students’ lenses.

View these photo albums on the CEA Study Abroad Photography Blog. The deadline for voting is Friday, March 28th so don’t wait! The winning photo(s) will be featured on the CEA website and in the 2009-2010 CEA Study Abroad Viewbook and the winner will receive a$250 award.

Stay tuned . . . the results will be announced on April 1st!

Don't miss out on your study abroad experience - spaces are filling quickly!

Apply Online Now

Get a $250 Flight Voucher When You Apply For Study Abroad

You must hurry - this offer is only good for 6 days! So apply online for one of our study abroad programs in Latin America this summer to receive a $250 voucher for your airfare, redeemable through AdTrav, CEA's student travel partner.

Picture it - just a few months from now you could be taking classes in Buenos Aires, San Jose, or Guadalajara. Whether you are a business major, interested in gaining a global perspective or you’re looking to get a leg up on the competition you face getting into med-school by enrolling in our Spanish For Health Care program, you’ll find your match in one of our many academic programs in San Jose, Costa Rica. The Intensive Spanish Language programs in Argentina and Mexico are perfect for students looking to put their language proficiency into high-gear. So whatever your interest, study abroad with CEA in Latin America and earn transfer credit while doing something different this summer.

Available Summer 2008 Study Abroad Programs in Latin America

Buenos Aires, Argentina
Intensive Spanish Language

San Jose, Costa Rica
Business and Economics
Environmental Studies
Intensive Spanish Language
Spanish for Health Care
Spanish Language, Liberal Arts & Sciences

Guadalajara, Mexico
Intensive Spanish Language
Spanish Language & Mexican Culture

But remember this offer is only available for a limited time, so act fast before time runs out!
Apply Online Now

Kicking Off the CEA Study Abroad Spring 2008 Photography Contest

We know you’re already sharing photos of your study abroad experience with all your friends and family back home. So we decided to “make it interesting” so to speak, and start a photography contest each semester for all CEA students onsite! What’s at stake? Winner takes $250. In this spirit, we’ve launched a dedicated site to house this contest and topic, so we’re pleased to introduce to you today the Study Abroad Photography Blog where you can get all the details about the contest, and more helpful hints and fun tips about photography as time goes on. What’s more? – 15 Minutes of Fame! The winning submission will be featured and announced on our website and in the 2009-2010 CEA Study Abroad Viewbook!

The Rules

From abstracts to cityscapes to portraits to on campus photos, we want you to express yourself. Just a few simple guidelines: photos must be taken by you, in your host city, on your host campus, or on a CEA excursion, and all the photos must be G rated. Click here to view the full contest rules page.

How To Enter

We are using our new blog to display your entries, and taking advantage of a great photo sharing website BubbleShare.com to help us present your photos. All you have to do is post the shots you have already taken during your study abroad (or any new ones you take), to an album on BubbleShare.com. You can use a theme if you prefer or just put everything you have in an album, but remember the submission deadline is March 21^st, 2008 so don't wait too long. To get a full breakdown on how to enter, visit our Study Abroad Photography Blog where you will find complete details.

Good luck! We can't wait to see your entry.

Save up to $500 on Study Abroad with CEA

Save $500 on Your Study Abroad Fall 2008

Study abroad with CEA this fall and save five hundred dollars on any GlobalCampus Program. With campuses in France, Italy, and Spain in just a few months you could be acquiring credits toward your degree at your home university or college. The GlobalCampus curriculum is designed for a more broad student body with courses in: International Business, Political Science, Art, History, Language and more, you can keep your major on track while enjoying experiences of a lifetime.

This offer is only valid for students who start their application online before March 11th, 2008. So don't wait! Create a MyCEA Account today and gain access to: a downloadable catalog, advisor chat, and apply online. Have more questions? Visit our website GoWithCEA.com, or speak to an advisor at 1800-266-4441

Save $200 on Your Study Abroad Summer 2008

Study abroad with CEA this summer and save two hundred dollars on any GlobalCampus Program. With campuses in France, Italy, and Spain in just a few months you could be acquiring credits toward your degree at your home university or college. So spend this summer in one of most beautiful cities in the world.

This offer is only valid for students who start their application online before March 11th, 2008. So don't wait! Create a MyCEA Account today and gain access to: a downloadable catalog, advisor chat, and apply online.

Study Abroad Video Contest – Vote Now For Your Favorite

CEA has just received the final submissions for our study abroad video contest. All of the entries below are from students currently studying abroad with CEA. Now we would like to open up the vote for the best entry, please vote using the star rating on the video's page on YouTube. The winner will receive a 15 day eurail pass or equivalent so vote early and vote often for the entry you would like to see win the prize.

The first video is from one of our students who is currently attending our Costa Rica study abroad program in San Jose.

This video is from one of students who is currently at one our study abroad Spain programs in Alicante.

A video from a few of our students who are participating in one our study abroad programs in Italy at our Florence campus.

The Last video is from a student in our Buenos Aires study abroad program.

These videos do not express the views of CEA or its agents. And are not produced by or owned by CEA

Why Study Abroad? Top Five Reasons Why You Should Study Business Abroad

Global Integration
No matter if you want to admit it or not the world is growing increasingly smaller when it comes to the way business is conducted. In the past twenty years the US economy has gone from outsourcing manufacturing, to outsourcing support, to international synergies and integration. Gone are the days of country centric companies. The average employee in most companies interacts with the world on a day to day basis. Studying abroad is no longer for language majors, it is the necessary preparation to join the modern workforce.

A Different Perspective
When you study business abroad you have the opportunity to both look at the local markets and economy, but also look at the US economy from an outsider’s point of view. Recent events have highlighted the balancing act that is the global economy, one way of business for each country or region is no longer a viable method of operation. The next generation of “Captains of Industry” will be required to have global vision and knowledge to be successful within the world market.

Cultural Aptitude
Learning how to interact with different cultures is a big part of the study abroad experience. With the progression toward a more globally integrated workforce it is more critical than ever to be culturally competent prior to entering the job market. Your study abroad program will provide the tools you need to land your “dream job”, drastically reducing your learning curve for engaging at higher levels of business, and giving you a leg-up on the competition.

Let’s Face It – It’s Different Than Your Home Campus
No matter which CEA study abroad destination you pick it will be far more exciting than spending the semester at home. With business study abroad programs instructed in English available in over 15 locations around the world like: Rome, Buenos Aires, Barcelona, and South Africa, you will have the experience of a lifetime while life goes on as usual on your home campus.

Get The Job You Want After Graduation
Many of the reasons studying abroad will help you land a job are peppered throughout this post. However, the most important is learning both economic policies and business principles that are region and country specific. For instance a business student who has studied in the European Union would understand that the VAT is something to take into account when forecasting and would potentially lower the contribution of a given business unit operating inside the EU when compared to one within the United States. A student might be able to better compare and contrast the different markets and highlight why going public in a foreign market can often lead to lower operating costs due to Sarbaines Oxley compliance for publicly traded companies in the US. Also a student in our Shanghai study abroad program might be able to weigh the opportunities and risks in investing in China’s booming market, due to its dynamic nature and the demographic of its investors. These are just a few examples of how studying abroad will not only enhance your degree, but set your resume apart from the rest and be the experience you need to get the job you want after graduation.

Next 6 Students to Enroll in GlobalCampus Rome Summer 2008 Recieve a Free Trip to Venice and Verona!

Thinking of spending your summer in Rome? Don’t think for too long or you’ll miss out on CEA’s Summer Pre-Tour!

See more of Italy by applying to study abroad in Rome this summer with CEA – you may be eligible for a free pre-tour of Venice and Verona, but there are only 6 spots left. Is one of them yours?

Be one of the first to complete the application process and spend 3 days before your academic program begins, touring these magnificent Italian cities – and the best part? CEA is picking up the tab.

You can choose between a June or a July 4-week session and study anything from Language & Culture to International Business to History or Political Science. So whatever your academic interest, complement that with a first-hand look at some of Italy’s most well-renown cities that are sure to bring this amazing country to life.

The next 6 students to complete the application process will be eligible for this exciting pre-tour where you’ll take a grand tour of both Venice and Verona.

So don’t wait – inquire today for details by calling your personal advisors at 1-800-266-4441 or chatting online. You can view more details about this study abroad opportunity on our website.

Apply
Online Now

Act Fast. Only the next 6 enrolled students will receieve this package (posted 1/28/2008)

The information provided in this entry is accurate at the time of posting. As this offer is limited in number participants please keep in mind that at the time this is read, the offer may no longer be valid.

South Africa Study Abroad Program Launch from CEA

CEA is excited to unveil to you today the newest addition to our 25+ international destination for study abroad in Port Elizabeth South Africa! Now enrolling for the 2008 Fall Semester, this incredible program offers you the chance of a lifetime . . . . in Africa no less!

Students can now study with CEA at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. This is a full curriculum program which means that much like on your US home campus, you have a full catalog of courses from which to choose to make this international experience, one that keeps you on track with your studies. So don't get left behind! Read more today and be one of the first to sign up for what is to be a truly amazing semester half-way around the world. Space will fill quickly so reserve your space soon.


Port Elizabeth
Dubbed The Friendly City, this stunning city site in a region known for its mild climate, beautiful sandy beaches, and ethnic and biodiversity. Port Eliazbeth has a long history of European settlements and immigration from India, Malaysia and many other foreign nations, making it a truly diverse gathering place. It also boasts game reserves, elephant parks, national forests and the Indian Ocean's wildlife, so whether you're into environmental studies, political science, history or just international opportunities in general, Port Elizabeth is an ideal place to land for a semester.


Why Go With CEA
As a CEA student in who study abroad in South Africa, you will be provided a comprehensive program that not only addresses your academic needs, but also fosters immersion, provides housing, engages you in social activities, and upholds a standard of care through resident staff, health insurance, and detailed orientation programs that will offer you and your parents enhanced peace of mind. You will also:

Get to know South African culture and all that Port Elizabeth has to offer by participating in regularly scheduled immersion activities such as a traditional South African Braai (BBQ), spotting whales and dolphins on a whale watching cruise or taking in the scenery on horseback or from the saddle of a mountain bike.

Explore the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Eastern and Western Capes of South Africa through an exciting trip down the famous Garden Route or to one of the close-by game reserves.

Live and study with South African and other international students and integrate into South African university life by participating in on-campus clubs and social events.

Experience the tumultuous history of South Africa in a safe and welcoming environment.

Take courses within a wide portfolio of subject areas, fulfilling general education requirements or advancing studies in your major.

Apply Online Now

Take Great Photos While you Study Abroad

Photography 101: What Makes a Good Photo?

The best way to remember your study abroad experience is through pictures. The people you meet and the places you visit are never as vivid in your memory as they are on a glossy print. Here at CEA, we love to flip through our photo albums of backpacking trips, road trips and other vacations we took while on our own overseas study abroad trips.

Whether you’re backpacking through Central America while you study abroad in Costa Rica or hopping around Europe with cheap study abroad airfare, you’ll appreciate great photo skills. Even if you’re a novice photographer, you can still to take great shots while you study abroad – without spending all your cash on a fancy camera. Expensive cameras give you more control over your subject and focus, but you can still take great pictures with just a cheap disposable. Just follow the steps below for simple advice on how to compose a great photo on your study abroad trip.

Rule of Thirds

This is the first rule of photography. Imagine dividing your composition into three equal parts both vertically and horizontally. Your audience’s eyes are naturally drawn to the four points where these lines intersect, so the horizon of your picture or any other strong vertical elements should fall along these lines. Try not to place the horizon or your photo’s subject in the dead center of the picture – this approach tends to result in boring and lifeless photography.

Diagonals

When composing your picture, seek out diagonal lines in your subject matter. This doesn’t mean you should turn your camera to a 45-degree angle; instead, use a road, fence or even the horizon (such as a mountain or hill in the background) to cut across some or all of your picture. Diagonals add dimension and interest to your photo and can be a great way of adding depth. Use diagonals of color, shape and shadow to break up the space in your picture.

Subject

Take a few seconds to compose your picture. First, pick a clear subject or point of interest – with so much to see on your study abroad, this should be easy. Whether it is a building, person, animal or clump of flowers, the subject should be prominent, giving your viewer’s eye a place to rest. Follow the rule of thirds to add interest to your composition. If your subject is in motion (a person, dog or car), leave room in the composition for the subject to go.

Depth of Field

To avoid a flat-looking picture, you want to create depth. If you are taking a landscape photograph of something far away, like a mountain, include foreground objects like a tree, flowers or interesting group of rocks at the bottom of your composition. This adds interest and depth to your photo. In a landscape photo, you can add people to give a sense of scale to your photograph. Be creative with angles. Looking down from overhead or up from below offers an unexpected but eye-catching vantage point.

Lighting

The ambience of a rising sun, the brilliant hues of sunset, the high contrast of light and dark, and the soft, gentle tones of a cloudy day can turn ordinary pictures into exceptional ones by revealing the atmosphere, mood and drama of your subject.

Direct sunlight causes harsh shadows and usually doesn’t make for flattering portraits or landscape photos. For outdoor photos, partly cloudy to cloudy days are best. If you have to take pictures in full sun, take notice of how light and shadows affect the features of your subject’s face. Adjust either your subject’s position or yours in relationship to the sun to compensate for any undesirable effects.

If you can find a shady spot, your portraits will be much more flattering. Use the flash for close-up photos where shadows may be present (10-15 feet). However, too much light can overexpose your photos, so take two: one with flash and one without. If your camera has a “fill” flash setting, this is what its intended purpose is. In most cases, however, outdoor photos are best with natural light.

Professional photographers will tell you the best light is in the early morning, shortly after sunrise, or late afternoon, a little before sunset. This creates softer lighting and long, dramatic shadows. It also gives more dimension to your subject, allowing his or her character to shine through, whereas the harsh overhead lighting of midday can leave your subject looking flat. If you have the option, this is the time to capture award-winning photos of your study abroad adventure.

Weather

Don’t leave your camera at home just because the raindrops are falling. Rainy or foggy conditions can produce photos that are much more interesting than ordinary vacation snapshots. For dramatic shots, capture the moment when light suddenly breaks through clouds, or as fog is rolling in or evaporating. Cloud formations can also add interest and drama to otherwise mediocre compositions. If possible, add a spot of color to your composition, such as a vibrant garden, a brightly colored building or your best friend’s bright-yellow raincoat.

Now that you know the basics of photo composition, it’s time to learn the details: what equipment to buy before you study abroad and how to start snapping great photos. Read Study Abroad Photography 102 for another installment of great advice, and apply now to study abroad with CEA.

Your Chance to Save $100 to $1000 Study Abroad Fall 2008

There’s never been a better opportunity to save so don’t miss out on your chance for an unforgettable fall semester abroad! CEA is increasing prices on select 2008 Fall programs as of January 1st so you still have the chance to act fast and save big! By applying to your program before that deadline, you can lock in the current price – so plan during your winter break and take advantage of an unforgettable holiday gift.

The CEA Value Package
We continue to enhance the programs we offer to you through additional academic offerings, new activities, housing options and more. As a result, our prices often have to follow. The US Dollar has also been getting weaker for some time, causing costs to increase. In order to continue offering the quality programming and value packaging for which we're known, these price increases are critical. Take a look at the 2008 Fall programs being affected by the January price increase:

Czech Republic at the Anglo-American College in Prague

Czech Republic at the University of Economics, Prague

Brighton, England at the University of Sussex

London, England at Middlesex University

French Alps: Grenoble, France at Stendahl University

French Riviera: Sophia Antipolis, France at CERAM – Euro American Institute

Florence, Italy at the CEA GlobalCampus: Florence

Florence, Italy at the Santa Reparata International School of Art

Barcelona, Spain at the CEA GlobalCampus: Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain at Pompeu Fabra Univeristy

Madrid, Spain at the Complutense University of Madrid

Seville, Spain at the CEA GlobalCampus: Seville

These limited savings range from $100 to as much as $1000 off of program prices so don’t wait – ask for the gift of a lifetime this holiday and study abroad with CEA this fall!

Apply Online Now