AIFS Abroad in London, England (GEC): Semester

I decided to study abroad with AIFS and it truly was the best decision of my life. The AIFS Abroad team was so incredibly helpful--jumping onto phone calls to answer every one of my many questions. I had never lived abroad before but AIFS walked me through each step. My university required that I book my flights through AIFS' travel package, which I found to be so incredibly helpful. I did not have to worry about how I was getting to the airport or what flight to get. AIFS did it for me. From making sure I knew how to use the Tube to immersing me in the culture from the first moment I got off the plane, AIFS Abroad welcomed me with open arms. I loved going to class in a different part of the city as well. Kensington is GORGEOUS and getting to experience the life of a Londoner who travels back and forth from home is an experience I'll never forget. From traveling to Europe to visiting so many museums, from seeing theatre productions to meeting new people, London opened my world up. AIFS Abroad encouraged me to try new things and to spend as much time as I could out and about in the culture of England--while also making sure I got my schoolwork done! I even met my partner while there. I kept a digital journal through Instagram of my travels called "Lost In London"(@katharinegutkoski & @ontherecord._). I truly cannot thank AIFS Abroad for everything. Going to England changed my life and I would choose AIFS Abroad again and again and again.

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If I could use one word to describe AIFS England it would be spectacular. I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to spend a semester in my dream city. I think about the relationships I made with friends, professors, and staff every day and wish I could live it all over again. I wouldn’t change my experience for anything and think about it all the time! Go study abroad, it will change your life just like it did mine.

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My favorite thing about this program was how the classes were structured. The classes often included field trips and going into the city to explore. It was such an effective way to learn and I really appreciated doing so much field work. Steve Bentel and Brian Ridgers were some of my favorite instructors I have ever had the pleasure to learn from. Dr. Bentel’s class Diversity in London was a particularly enjoyable class. One of our classes was spent doing a hostile architecture tour through London. This tour inspired my senior capstone project and sparked a passion of mine that I am still pursuing. Overall, the class structure at AIFS was one of my favorite things about the program.

My time in London through the AIFS program was life changing. The program staff was always there for support, especially when I had a time where I was feeling down on myself. They assured me they were always there to talk, and it never felt awkward or uncomfortable talking to program staff about my personal life. They made it so easy to get things off my chest and were great confidants. I left London more independent than I had arrived. The program pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. I could not stop crying when I had to leave because studying abroad through AIFS was the best time of my life and I didn’t want to leave the program or the amazing people I met in the program.

I think one of the best parts of this program was how involved the academics were in relation to the city of London. Every one of my classes insisted that we go out and explore the city, while learning and living like Londoners. The instruction provided by the school really encouraged learning through experiences.

Studying abroad in London during Fall 2022 was an unmatched experience. Our cohort arrived the day Queen Elizabeth passed away, marking a unique time in London's culture. Losing a Monarch made history, and I felt more immersed in the fabric of London life during the weeks following; the royal funeral, the reminiscing, and the chatter of an upcoming coronation. And this was just the beginning. AIFS accommodations had me living in the heart of Chelsea, with a bus stop outside and Gail's bakery across the street, there was nothing we couldn't handle. I immersed myself in Imperial College of London's "societies" or clubs as we know them in the US. I joined the fashion & design club, the yoga club, the art club, and a few others. Here, I made friends from all over the world, mesmerized by how they switched language mid-sentence so fluidly. "This is what I came here for," I remember thinking. I connected with my professors outside of class, taking advantage of unique opportunities like workshops and speakers. I was often the only student at these functions, and it even provided me the opportunity to honor Indonesian Culture and walk in the "Indonesia NOW: Fashion and Culture" fashion show! Here, I made incredible friends and connections. Not to mention, it was a dream come true to get my foot in the door of the London fashion world. I chose London for sustainable fashion and made it a reality I dream of still. Other highlights for me include attending London Fashion Week, a thrift "crawl," sewing classes, and weekly life drawing charcoal classes. I couldn't have wished for a better experience. Although I sought out my unique opportunities AIFS opened the doors. I chose to study in London last minute, I didn't know what to expect, but now I can say I saw a glimpse of my dreams becoming reality. I could go on and on about how this experience changed me for the better but am comforted by the reminder that we make our own fate. You can't go wrong studying abroad with AIFS.

My time abroad with AIFS was incredible! They have terrific resources for students before they leave their home country, with lots of online documents and easy access to AIFS staff who are ready to help at a moment’s notice! I received two AIFS scholarships through their scholarship program, and they accepted all of my financial aid which made it very affordable! I did not participate in the flight package, but it is a nice amenity for first-time travelers! Before classes started, AIFS wanted to ensure that we connect with all of our students in the program through traditional orientation sessions about what to expect living in London and studying in an English academic environment. They also organized fun activities like seeing Mama Mia in West End and seeing Stonehenge! I wish they would do more interactive programming throughout the year, especially mental health and student support service check-ins throughout the semester. Their alumni network provides great opportunities to give back to the study abroad community, and I’m very happy to be involved with their Alumni Ambassador program which has given me fantastic professional development opportunities and has helped me build a strong relationship with the study abroad office on my home university’s campus.

I fell in love with London while studying abroad through AIFS in the spring of 2020. Even among a pandemic I still had the most amazing experience of my life. AIFS helped me achieve my goal of studying abroad and helped me along the way. Beginning with pre-departure AIFS faculty were easily accessible and answered any question I may have had. Once in London AIFS helped to make the transition to living abroad as smooth as possible. There were resident directors on campus to answer any questions that I may have had. Having staff that was accessible made studying abroad that much easier. Whether it was a question about weekend travel or transfer credits the staff was always there to help.

I absolutely loved studying abroad at Richmond The American International University in London! The Kensington campus is right in the heart of the city! I seriously had the best experience abroad at London because of the amazing culture and how close everything was! Some of my best friends today are from my time abroad in London! Seriously I am going back this December to meet up with my best friends that are doing their masters at Richmond! That is what is amazing about the program too that all AIFS alumni get 15% off school master tuition fee and the masters program is only 1 year!

My time in London was truly the best experience of my life thus far. I never knew how much a city and a group of people could change me. From the get-go, I knew London was the place I was meant to be and going with AIFS made it easy to do so. AIFS was affiliated with my university, meaning I’d only have to pay whatever tuition I was already paying with no additional or hidden fees. After applying to AIFS’s London Program, I was accepted within a few days and knew it was the right choice for me. Leading up to my departure for London, all AIFS staff were super helpful in responding to any and all emails I sent, in addition to following up asking if there was anything else they could do for me. Once I got to London, the support continued and that was especially nice considering I was so far from my home in California. The AIFS staff and fellow program attendees became my new family! I met so many wonderful people from all over the US and Europe and created friendships I know will last a lifetime. One thing I loved about AIFS was our free weekend trips to Brighton and Cambridge. We spent full Saturdays in towns outside of London which were absolutely amazing! AIFS also took us to see a West End show, which is SO up my alley, as I’m such a big fan of musical theater. I truly can’t say enough great things about London and AIFS. They’ve changed me for the better and I’m so happy I got to visit the country of my dreams with a program so dedicated to giving students a prime international education.

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Studying abroad with AIFS was the best decision of my life. The AIFS staff was extremely friendly, organized and helpful from the get-go. From the first day in London to the final days checking out, AIFS has been nothing but wonderful. I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is interested in studying abroad. I cannot emphasize enough how well AIFS treated us. All the cultural activities they set up were awesome and really helped us learn about the local culture. The AIFS staff communicated very well with us throughout the semester and were always available when needed. 11/10 would recommend =)

AIFS is an all inclusive program but the experience I received was nothing that money could buy. I was fully immersed in the city of London along with other international students. Not only did we have a full support system of AIFS staff, but the faculty of Richmond University were fully supportive of the students. I felt incredibly connected to my peers and the administrative team while in London. The campus had so much to offer for the students to feel even more apart of the campus community. Since we were in the heart of central London, we had to rely on connection with other students and AIFS made that so much easier. Everything was so well organized and I felt so prepared for my journey and safe with the AIFS team. If I had to do it all over again, I would do it with AIFS because it truly shaped my study abroad experience.

Studying abroad with AIFS in London was the best decision I have ever made. Studying abroad in London was such a good choice for me, as it was my first time outside of the US. Where London provided the perfect home-base as it is a well balance of not being too foreign yet being a new world to culturally immerse yourself in. Regarding why AIFS in London is perfect is due to it's location and program specifications. With AIFS, (for most students) you are placed in an American style dorm housing in the greatest neighborhood in the world! Kensington is home to so many amazing things to do, while remaining fairly quiet, and being a 5 minute tube ride into your favorite parts of central London. The dorms of Atlantic House and Ambassador Hall just a few minutes away from all that Kensington has to offer from Hyde Park, to South Kensington Museums, and all the shops High Street Kensington has to offer. The location is truly the best that I know of compared to any of the other programs that my friends have been a part of and I am beyond grateful that I had the opportunity to spend 4 months of my life living in Kensington. The specifications of the program including the academics, on site staff, cultural experiences offered, and all the other details were so great. The study part of study abroad was a great environment to learn, with students and professors from all around the world are present in the classroom, resulting in not just a typical learning environment but a great lesson in learning about different perspectives of the world. The on site staff are some of the best people out there, as they are so helpful with everything you need or have questions about. And the cultural experiences are very fun activities such as going to plays, the London eye, day trips that are very well planned, and so much more. Overall, this is the best program if you're studying abroad in London!

AIFS provides the best location in London to study in. Just steps from Hyde Park, London's largest Royal Park and steps from Kensington Palace, home to William and Kate (and now Harry and Meghan!). Campus is also steps from two tube stations giving you the ability to be anywhere in London within a half hour. Also just steps away from Kensington High Street, filled with both high-end shops and a variety of restaurants you can find anything you need. The neighborhood is home to many celebrities including the Beckham family! When I was there some people actually ran into David on the Street. The Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is also the most expensive borough in all of London, I never felt unsafe while walking the streets. Other than the location, the staff is absolutely wonderful, the two Resident Directors Nicki and Anderson were like family to me. They will help you with anything from homesickness to school. My only complain would be the food in the dining hall, but that made me go out and explore all the tastes London has to offer.

I had the most incredible semester when I studied abroad in London through AIFS. I did not know what to expect and it exceeded any expectation I could have dreamt of. I fell in love in London. I fell in love with the people, the culture, the community and even a new relationship. The memories and experiences I made wandering the city and exploring new things on my own and with new friends are moments that will stay with me the rest of my life. I am the biggest advocate for studying abroad and feel strongly that everyone should do it at some point in their life. I am so thankful that I was able to go and it has forever impacted me!

I studied abroad through AIFS the spring semester of my junior year of college, and just got back this last May. Having never really left the country before, it’s really important to me to advocate for this program. Going to London has been my dream since I was little, and AIFS made sure I had the best experience possible. We lived in Kensington, the nicest and safest part of London, which honestly made the trip for me. Everywhere you look is beautiful, and there’s so much to do and see! My resident directors were so kind and helpful, also, and the staff and friends I made there made it easy to be away from my family for four months. I grew so much abroad, as cheesy as it sounds, but I came back more independent and confident in myself. It was also really important that I was able to take any of the classes Richmond had to offer. I could only take classes for my major or minor because I had already completed my general requirements for my major. A lot of the programs I looked into only offered certain courses for study abroad students, but Richmond is an international university, so I got to take any class I wanted, and that also meant getting to meet locals and other people from all across the world. London is known for its diversity, so it was nice that I could really immerse myself in it instead of seclude myself as an American abroad by just knowing people in my program. I can’t thank AIFS enough, and I can’t wait to go back to London some day!

Our 18 year old daughter was accepted into the B session for summer 2017. She had just graduated from HS and thought she was ready for the experience in London on her own. She left Pittsburgh and flew to London, made it to the Richmond campus and was simply overwhelmed. She was not ready for the experience and within a day or two was calling ask to come home. Here is where the staff showed their commitment to the students. Maura met with our daughter on several occasions and talked her down and convinced her to stay a few days. Our daughter did return home after a few days but through no fault of the AIFS staff. Once she decided to return, Maura met with her and took her all over London for 5 hours. This was on Maura's time beyond the regular day. Our daughter was very appreciative as were we. Rebecca was also tremendous, she emailed our daughter and encouraged her to stay, once she decided to return, Rebecca quickly made the flights and connections to get our daughter home. She wants to return next year once she has a year of university experience. I believe if she were able, she would return today as she would feel comfortable knowing what to expect and knowing the support is there if she needs it. Thank you Maura, Rebecca, and the rest of the AIFS staff. You made our daughter feel safe and cared for and made parents confident that their daughter was safe.

Going abroad to London was the absolute best decision of my life. It changed me in more ways than I can even describe! Going abroad can be a lot to handle at times but with AIFS everything was a breeze. From the pre departure information to the on site campus representatives there is no other program that could have done a better job at making this experience one of the best!

I would like to start off with saying that this program did more than change my outlook of traveling. AIFS was extremely helpful throughout the whole process, whether it was dealing with basic travel questions or pieces of advice for being away from home; the program did an amazing job with being there for the students every step of the way! I think my experience abroad really opened my eyes to new cultures and backgrounds as I met people that changed my life for the better. Studying abroad with this program gave me a different perspective on life, and I couldn't have had the same experience without the amazing staff of AIFS!

"Adaptation is a profound process. It means you figure how to thrive" AIFS gave me more than I could have ever imagined and helped me adapt in ways I never thought I would know how to. I gained a new sense of independence and wonder; along with the bravery one needs to feel confident in traveling alone. I would not have gained this qualities without the amazing office staff who became family, along with the life long supportive friends I made here in London. The people here in AIFS care about your well being. If they hear you cough, they ask if you are okay. If they see you posting about home, they ask how you are doing and if you are homesick. If they see you staying up late for homework, they ask how that assignment went days later. They always and only have the students best interest at heart. You aren't just a number with this program, you are a part of a huge family. This program adapted me to the woman I have always wanted to be, someone who is confident, brave and adventurous. I could not thank this program enough for the memories and only hope that someone else gets to experience the greatness that is AIFS.

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