My Fourth Experience Abroad By Edna Santiago

What Was Edna Santiago's Experience Studying English Abroad?

Edna Santiago, a student from Brazil, embarked on her fourth study abroad journey at CEL (College of English Language) in San Diego, California. Having previously studied in Boston, Toronto, and Chicago, Edna chose San Diego for its beauty and relative affordability compared to other California cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Her experience highlights that there's no age limit to pursuing dreams through international study. Edna particularly enjoyed exploring San Diego's streets, running by the harbor, and visiting Coronado Beach. She also made a trip to the Mexico border and cherished the city's sunsets with a cup of coffee. Edna Santiago found the people she met at CEL to be the best part of her time in San Diego, praising the "awesome" teachers and the "cozy and friendly" environment. The common area, with its bean bags, created a welcoming space for students. She fondly remembers coffee time after lunch and her English classes, as well as her comfortable housing and new friends. Her overall experience at CEL San Diego was "outstanding," emphasizing the quality of the courses and the vibrant atmosphere. Her account suggests that choosing a language course in San Diego offers both strong academics and a rich cultural experience.

What Made San Diego a Unique Choice for Edna's Fourth Study Abroad?

For Edna, San Diego was a somewhat unexpected choice among her four international study experiences. While California typically brings to mind Los Angeles and San Francisco, San Diego caught her eye due to its appealing aesthetics and a "little bit" cheaper cost of living. This practicality, combined with the city's charm, made it an ideal location for her annual vacation and language learning goals. Her travels often focus on exploring new places, and San Diego provided a fresh perspective. Edna's adventurous spirit led her to discover the fantastic streets, the harbor, and even the Mexico border, satisfying her curiosity about the region. She valued the city's unique blend of natural beauty and urban exploration, making her time memorable.

Edna's time at CEL San Diego was defined by engaging experiences beyond the classroom. She enjoyed simple pleasures like watching sunsets with coffee and exploring local beaches, despite not being a "beach person." Her recommendation of Harbor and Coronado Beach shows how deeply she connected with her surroundings. Beyond the scenery, the people she met at CEL significantly enhanced her experience. She highlights the quality of the "awesome" teachers and the welcoming atmosphere, describing the environment as "cozy and friendly." These personal connections, coupled with the daily routine of English classes and coffee breaks, reinforced the positive impact of her time abroad. Students considering a similar experience can find out more about what it’s like to learn English in the USA by visiting our dedicated page.

How Can International Students Benefit from an Experience Like Edna's?

Edna Santiago's journey underscores several benefits for international students. Her repeat experiences studying abroad demonstrate the value of continuous language immersion and cultural exchange. Choosing a city like San Diego, California, offers a balance of academic rigor, as seen in her positive feedback about English classes, and diverse recreational activities. For instance, Edna's enjoyment of local walks, harbor runs, and trolley rides illustrates how daily life can become part of the learning process. The opportunity to meet "wonderful people" at CEL, including teachers and friends, fosters a supportive network vital for adapting to a new country. This sense of community contributes to an "outstanding" overall experience, as Edna describes it.

Edna's story also emphasizes the importance of stepping outside one's comfort zone, especially for those considering an English language program. Her decision to visit the Mexico border, driven by curiosity, exemplifies how study abroad can lead to unique cultural insights. Moreover, her appreciation for aspects like comfortable housing and shared coffee times highlights the holistic nature of the CEL experience. Prospective students can explore various courses offered at CEL to find a program that fits their goals, whether it’s general English or more specialized options. Edna's account serves as an inspiring reminder that pursuing education abroad is not just about language acquisition, but about personal growth and discovering new horizons, regardless of age. You can find out more about the general English courses offered at CEL by visiting our courses page.