AIFS AbroadReviews of aifsabroad.com

I had a fantastic time in Granada with AIFS. My classes were challenging, but within my skill level and the opportunity for excursions to Córdoba, Sevilla, and Morocco greatly added to my experience. My host mom Luisa was also fantastic. I don’t eat meat, but I never felt like that was a problem while in Spain, largely because AIFS asks about dietary restrictions/choices and matches students with host families that are willing to accomodate them. I met so many fantastic new people, and most of my memories of the city are fond. The program directors Eduardo and Noelia were also awesome, and always very helpful when any of the students needed help. I couldn’t recommend the program enough.

Studying at my community college, I had a hard time finding outlets to express my unique interests. I was only there to obtain my Associate Degree, but with the thoughts of gaining a doctorate in Egyptology dancing in my head, I felt restricted and almost suffocated by my small town. When I saw a flyer for AIFS on a board in my community college, I looked into it and the Art in Context class in Florence, Italy called to me. The experiences I knew I would gain by seeing so many pieces art in one of the cultural epicenters of the world practically threw any doubts I had to the wind. I had traveled before, but not like this. I had reservations, as did my family, but from the moment I arrived, AIFS made me feel like I was a local Italian. They knew that many of us were first time travelers abroad, and did everything they could to ease any concerns as well as soothe any problems. My teacher was fun and made seeing the city's history entertaining. I rarely felt like I was in class. By the time my month in Italy was over, I had walked away with more than a better grasp of art history, but a confidence as a traveler. I can now say that Italy opened the world to me, for I have caught the bug. That first trip made me realize that sitting in a small town not only constricts my heart, but my mind. I met life-long friends and learned forever lessons about the world and who I am as a person; all because I looked up a study abroad website from a flyer. Now, I am a graduate student in Egyptology and have been to several other countries since Italy, making a point of seeing a new place every year. But, I always have a funny, wonderful story to tell about my time in Italy, thanks to AIFS.

Studying abroad with AIFS was one of the best experiences of my college years. It’s been 2 years since I went abroad and I miss it every day! I recommend everyone study abroad!! It’s such a great way to meet new people and see so many parts of the world!

I was able to study abroad in Dublin, Ireland for a total of 3 weeks. In these 3 short weeks I saw the most beautiful scenes and made so many unforgettable friendships.

I had the best time studying abroad. I learned so much about culture, my studies, and myself. It was an amazing experience I would recommend to everyone. The people I worked with through AIFS made my experience as smooth and memorable as possible.

Best choice I’ve ever made

Studying abroad with AIFS in Berlin was one of my best experiences in college. The program was very interesting and well organized, the apartment was lovely, and the staff were extremely kind, helpful, and knowledgeable. They did a great job with everything from helping those who had not been abroad before to pointing out fun places to stop on our (very thoughtfully planned) trips to other cities. I would go back now if I could!

My experience was great. My only complaint was a host that couldn't speak English, and I think AIFS should try to provide a translator is a English speaking host is not available. However, she was the sweetest lady in the world once I crossed the language barrier. The education was easy, but informative. You get plenty of free time to see the city you chose. Some students even use the the free time to fly to other neighboring countries between class days. There is no helicopter parenting - feel free to get CRAZY at night, but be prepared for class. The group activities were a blast and helped me make friends from all over America; Not many from the country I toured unfortunately.