Adventure in Seattle

Seattle Stories: Experience report Study Abroad

My semester abroad in Seattle was a unique experience that I'll always cherish. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the city’s impressive skyline and the welcoming atmosphere. Seattle had the perfect mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, exactly what I had hoped for in the "Evergreen State."

I settled into South Lake Union, which was a really clean and modern neighborhood. It quickly became one of my favorite areas, offering everything I needed within walking distance—grocery stores, a gym, and great spots for a stroll. The easy access to downtown and CityU made it convenient to explore all that Seattle had to offer.

The city itself offers fantastic opportunities for leisure and outdoor activities, especially in its many public parks. I spent many hours in these parks, which were perfect for playing tennis, jogging, relaxing, or simply enjoying nature. These green spaces provided a great escape from city life and helped me maintain a good balance between studying and leisure.

Studying at CityU was a positive and engaging experience. The campus is modern, and classes are held in small groups of around 20 students, creating a relaxed and interactive learning environment. Also, the huge amount of international students brought in many different cultures and backgrounds. I lived in Cornish Commons, close to the campus, which made it easy to connect with other students and be part of the community.

One of the highlights of my time in Seattle was the variety of experiences the city offered during the summer. Whether it was spending the day at Golden Gardens Park or Alki Beach, enjoying the sun, exploring Seattle’s diverse dining scene, or going on a hike in Washington’s stunning nature, there was always something to do. I particularly enjoyed dining at places like Mbar, Altitude Sky Lounge, and OldStove Brewery which offered great food and stunning views.

Beyond the city, I also took the opportunity to explore the area around Washington. A 2-hour ferry ride with friends took us to Vancouver Island, where we discovered breathtaking nature. Short trips to Chicago, Portland, Cannon Beach, and other parts of the USA also showed us the beauty of this country. It was a fantastic way to see more of the region and create lasting memories. Weekend trips to places like Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier, Vancouver, BC, were also easy to fit in. These trips offered a refreshing change of scenery and allowed me to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Overall, my semester in Seattle was a really good mixture of city life, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a well-rounded and memorable experience.