AIFS Abroad in Florence, Italy: Summer

My summer in Florence, Italy, was nothing short of transformative. Traveling abroad for the first time with two friends from Cornell University, I initially felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. As someone accustomed to family trips, the idea of venturing into a new country was daunting, especially since my friends had never left the U.S. Thankfully, AIFS organized every detail of our journey,accommodation, meals, and transportation, which alleviated our stress and reassured our families, allowing us to truly enjoy the adventure. Studying the museums of Florence was an eye-opening experience. I delved deep into the city's rich architecture and vibrant culture, expanding my knowledge in ways I never anticipated. The immersive environment allowed me to truly appreciate the historical significance of Florence, all while bonding with my friends over shared discoveries. What truly made this trip unforgettable, however, was the friendships I formed. While I started with just two friends, I came away with a close-knit group of more than ten. One friendship blossomed into a deep connection; I now consider this person one of my best friends, and I’m thrilled that she will be visiting me in Egypt (my home) this winter. AIFS played a crucial role in facilitating these meaningful connections and experiences. Their support made this journey not just an educational endeavor but a profound personal adventure. I am incredibly grateful for the memories created and the friendships forged during this summer. This trip has genuinely been life-changing for both me and my friends. I hope to inspire others to take part in a similar program, as I know it will leave a lasting impact on their lives. My time in Florence is something I will cherish forever, and I am immensely grateful to AIFS for making it possible.

I had the best time in Florence with AIFS for the June session! Our apartment was gorgeous and in the best location for activities and food! I had such a great time exploring Italy with activities that were arranged by AIFS as well as by myself or with my roommates! I highly recommend this program!

I chose to study abroad with AIFS in Italy with their 7 week program. The staff were wonderful and the classes amazing. If there were any troubles the staff was extremely helpful and accommodating. The apartment complex I stayed in was filled with other AIFS students. There were no worries about safety and each apartment had their own charm. The program included meal vouchers which were an amazing way for us to try various restaurants and foods. The excursions were fun and if they did cost anything it was never more than £20. All were worth my time to participate in.