AIFS Abroad in Grenoble, France (GEM): Semester

I always wanted to go back to France and truly understand the meaning of life in another country. The only time traveling to France is to visit family on my mother’s side. So being able to visit the country on my own, in a part of France I have never visited, was an eye opening experience. Living by myself encouraged me to learn how to cook many different platters that I wouldn’t normally have, and pushed me to go out and explore the city. I had great support from the AIFS and CUEF team. Miranda Rea was amazing and helped me through some difficult times. She was encouraging and supportive and without her I believe I’d have a difficult time crossing the finish line. Class was difficult yet fun. I’ve learned so many different grammar rules and learned that even though you make some mistakes, “just know everyone makes mistakes in French. Even the French!”, Professor Kristof would say that to me when I’d make a common mistake that most francophone people do. However, I did catch on pretty quickly since I’m bilingual in French and English. In all, I had a wonderful experience and would recommend this organization to whoever is looking for an exciting learning experience in a different country!

I found the peace in being alone. I didn’t feel the constant need to have someone near, yet I knew when I wanted people they were there. I found that the art of nothing, is so beautiful. There is so much nature surrounding us and people around every corner of the world we haven’t met. This world is vast and I want to discover so much more!

I love learning and I love traveling; I think I love traveling because it helps me learn-- the world is the best classroom after all. Enrolling in an AIFS program allowed me to live in France for a semester were I was able to immerse myself in courses and cultural experiences to propel me towards my personal, academic, and professional goals, and honestly it was one of the most profound and enriching life experiences I have ever had. I highly encourage students to take full advantage of whichever study abroad opportunities are available to them. I highly recommend applying for an AIFS program because AIFS provides an incredible all inclusive study abroad experience which offers a blissful balance between guidance and navigation through a challenging cross cultural experience as well as promoting an environment for young adults to indulge in their independence. AIFS made it easy for me to move across the Atlantic, take some classes, and to explore who I am. AIFS is renowned for their all inclusive programs which offer a variety courses, scholarships, flight packages, excursions, insurance, etc… BUT one of my favorite features about the AIFS package is the personal contacts who I felt truly cared about me getting the most out of my semester abroad. My admissions representative Erin reached out to me as soon as I started my application, she helped me secure me VISA and scheduled my flights for me. Once in France, my regional director Miranda helped me acclimate into my new host culture, introduced me to my loving host family, and translated for me at the doctors office. It was reassuring to know that there was always someone I could turn to if needed. Even after completing the program, the alumni coordinator Angela provided me with resources to help market my study abroad experience to future employers. AIFS connected me with a group of people who share my passion to learn and to travel and helped me create professional and supportive networks which continue to benefit me more than I ever imagined or expected from applying to international academic program. Thank you to the many people at AIFS who dedicate their time to help me and other students learn from the world.