IES Abroad London Summer – UK Today

Upon receiving my acceptance to the IES Abroad program, I imagined what a summer living in London would present. I'd secretly hope to meet a London boy (cue the Taylor Swift song), make lifelong friendships, and cross off my London bucket list. Only 1/3 was accomplished. During my time, I experienced loneliness, homesickness, and a bit of regret. My summer didn't pan out exactly how I imagined it. However, for the days that felt endless, there were plenty more that I wish didn't have to end. I am grateful for the experience I embarked on. Although it was scary, I did it, and made it out with cute pics as evidence.

I truly cannot say enough positive things about the IES Abroad programs! From pre-departure information, to classes and housing, and everything in-between, IES was the biggest help. I was incredibly excited - and nervous - about traveling abroad for the first time. I knew nobody, and I decided to go pretty last-minute. IES Abroad made sure I felt comfortable and prepared with my awesome program advisors and pre-departure meetings! Upon arrival, all students had to quarantine for 5 days. IES planned activities, information sessions, snacks and games, and more to keep us all entertained. The courses that were offered were interesting and the instructors really brought the learning materials to life with trips to museums and walking tours around London. IES also coordinated field-trips outside of London that really allowed us to see what life in England was really like. I had dreamed of doing a study-abroad program for years, and IES exceeded all expectations. I can't recommend their programs enough!

One of the most rewarding and exciting things I am proud to have done while in college is Study Abroad. In summer of 2021, I studied in London through IES Abroad for 6 weeks! This program was filled with so many great memories and opportunities for me! During this time I took two amazing classes that gave me more insight into London, England and more largely the United Kingdom. My classes two classes were UK Media/Politics and Theatre in London. While studying our classes we had the great opportunity of go on excursions and cultural immersion field trips that allowed us to understand our class lessons! My favourites were going to different theatres throughout London and watching shows, it was also great seeing the city of London and the government buildings! I was also able to meet other college students just like myself and create beautiful memories with people and now close friends I will forever remember! From tea dates, to the portobello market, to the London eye, to watching the sunset at primrose hill and biking through the city of London, there were so many exciting venues to see! When you study abroad the possibilities are endless, you get to call a different city in another country your home for 6 weeks!  While living in London, I also appreciated how diverse the city was and how open it was to cultures from all over the world! This was the most exciting part for me! I lived in an area known as Camden/Kentish Town, a little touristy and very niche neighborhood with plenty of small cultural boutiques and restaurants. I was also about 15 minutes away from Camden Market, a local market with clothing, art, food, and other vendors!  At first I was very nervous and worried about adjusting to another city, and country. But, throughout my experience The IES staff was very helpful! They helped us students understand transportation, gave us safety tips, recommendations and also created events and opportunities for us to go outside of the city of London and visit other cultural locations within England!