Fall
Programs of gap-year (semester & year long)
Spend a sabbatical year learning Spanish
Embark on a transformative journey with COWA’s immersive “Programs of Gap-Year” designed for students seeking a semester or year-long experience filled with academic enrichment, cultural exploration, and personal growth. At COWA, we understand the unique needs of students looking to broaden their horizons through international exchanges, and our comprehensive programs offer a perfect blend of academic rigor and cultural immersion.
Established in 2015, COWA has forged strong connections with universities worldwide, facilitating meaningful exchanges and fostering a global community of learners. Our latest initiative, the “Programs of Gap-Year,” goes beyond traditional study abroad experiences, providing students with an unparalleled opportunity to embrace a new culture, enhance their academic pursuits, and make lasting connections with peers from around the globe.
Academic Excellence: Collaborating with prestigious universities, our programs offer top-notch coursework tailored to your field of study. Beyond the classroom, embrace hands-on experiences, internships, and enriching site visits.
Athlete-Friendly Approach: Balance academics and sports seamlessly. Our programs cater to student-athletes, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and training regimens while immersing in a new cultural landscape.
Healthcare Internships: Through our extensive network, secure health-related internships in Andalusia’s renowned medical centers. Gain hands-on experience, attend seminars, and explore the healthcare system’s structural and functional aspects.
Seville: Tradition Meets Modernity: Immerse in Seville, heart of Andalusia with over 1,000 years of history. Experience the blend of storied past and vibrant culture—from the historic Guadalquivir River to captivating traditions of bullfighting, tapas, and flamenco.
Cultural Integration: Enjoy Seville’s warmth with its friendly population of just under one million. Navigate the city easily with public transport or the bike-share program. Embrace local Spanish meal schedules, witnessing the lively streets long into the night.
Live Like a Local: Our unique programs let you live with a Spanish family, immersing in local culture. Conversing with native speakers daily goes beyond the classroom. Try authentic Spanish cuisine, visit iconic landmarks, and broaden your worldview in Seville’s charming setting.
Life in Seville
Our Parent Handbook is a comprehensive guide providing practical information about your student’s living arrangements, health and safety considerations, communication protocols, and other valuable insights into their time abroad.
Additionally, we offer a counseling service that provides orientation and assistance to address any potential issues in the daily lives of COWA students.
Security
The COWA staff is dedicated to providing you with a homestay that perfectly suits your needs, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment. To guarantee suitability and safety, our team conducts personal interviews and visits to all homes, ensuring their proximity to campus.
Moreover, COWA staff members are available around the clock, 24/7, to assist students in addressing any issues that may arise during their stay. Your well-being and comfort are our top priorities.
Housing
Spanish Host Family: Your room and board, encompassing meals and laundry services, are thoughtfully provided by your host family. Engaging in conversations exclusively in Spanish, your family becomes an immersive environment to practice and enhance your language skills. Living with a Spanish family provides a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insights into Spain and Sevilla from the perspective of locals.
Residence: For some of our students, as indicated by specific programs, accommodation is arranged in a residence hall situated in the picturesque neighborhood of El Porvenir, just a 15-minute walk from the city center. In this vibrant setting, you’ll reside alongside fellow program students and mingle with Spanish and international peers who are also studying in Sevilla!
Facilities
COWA’s new headquarters boast an ideal location for students and visiting faculty, situated directly across from the iconic Maria Luisa Park. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the city center and within easy reach of the University of Seville and EUSA main campuses, where some students may attend classes with local peers. The strategic location is well-connected with public transportation for added convenience.
Our state-of-the-art headquarters feature four fully equipped smart classrooms. The space also incorporates offices designated for incoming visiting faculty and/or student interns and fellows. Additionally, there’s a 1000-square-foot indoor study area/auditorium designed to host a variety of student activities, including live music, dance workshops, language exchanges, or simply a place to unwind and socialize.
Dining
As you’ll be residing with a host family, all your meals will be thoughtfully prepared unless alternative arrangements are specified. This affords you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish diet and eating schedule. We are happy to accommodate personal dietary restrictions; please communicate any specific requirements to COWA’s staff as early as possible to ensure that your needs are met during your stay.