Summer Environmental Studies Study Abroad Programs in London

My name is Kabba and I studied abroad in London, England during the Fall 2025 semester! I chose to study abroad because I wanted to explore an opportunity to grow by doing something out of my comfort zone. AIFS helped make my experience an unforgettable one by ensuring I was prepared before departure and providing me with support during my time abroad. I would recommend studying abroad with AIFS to anyone who is willing to expand their horizon!

My time at Richmond has been the best 3 weeks of my life. I've never felt freer and happier. I have made so many friends along the way that I will never forget, friends that I laughed with until we were all out of breath and crying. The history that London has is almost unreal, walking by churches that are older than America. Everyone was unbelievably kind, at concerts we were upgraded to front row seats, and in class we were given opportunities to see Oxford and York - both of which were some of the best moments I had with the friends I made. Our professor was always willing to answer two million questions, before Richmond I had never had fun learning. I'll never forget my time in London with Richmond and every opportunity it's given me.

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.

Though my time in London was short, every moment felt so special. London will forever hold a piece of my heart and I can't thank AIFS enough for such a life changing experience. I am so grateful for all that I learned and experienced.

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.

Truly I could not tell you what I would have changed about my experience with AIFS. The travel package was so nice, I can book a plane ticket easy peasy, but I was concerned about landing and trying to figure out the tube. They made it so I didn't have to worry about a thing. The accommodations were so nice, and well located. The first day they showed us the route to get from our accommodations to our classroom which I really appreciated. The staff were all so kind, helpful, and accommodating. The experiences they booked for us were so fun and a good balance of catered experiences and free time for you (and friends) to explore London on your own. The professor was amazing! He was incredibly knowledgeable and kind. I truly would not change a thing about my experience and I cannot recommend it enough! For this particular program, they took us to West End musicals, Oxford, Top Secret Comedy Club and out to a few dinners! During class we would walk around London to immerse ourselves in the city, we explored Kensington, the East End, Bond Street, Westminster, Big Ben, the Churchill War Rooms and more!

I had such a great time at Lite Regal Education Summer School 2025 The Intensive English course really helped my English improve a lot in such a short time. I also met so many new friends from different countries everyone was super kind and friendly.

Studying in Barcelona had been a dream! I took classes in Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation, and Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. My 7 weeks in that paradise were filled with exploration, inspiration, and so much fun. From amazing people to the delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture to the colorful culture, Spain should be at the top of the must-visit countries list. My favorite activity, besides spending my day at the beach, was wandering around the city without a map and being amazed by the beauty hidden in every corner of Barcelona. Thanks to the Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage class, I learned even more about this impressive history and culture. CIS helped me through every step of adapting to studying and living in Barcelona. They planned fun events for us, such as various tours in famous parts of Barcelona, beach picnic and volleyball, wine tasting, tours to towns in Spain, and cooking classes. I stayed at Aparto Pallars, which is conveniently located near the metro station, from which you can take the metro anywhere. I'm so grateful for this experience, and I'm definitely willing to go back to Barcelona or any other program with CIS!

I chose AIFS Abroad because I wanted a program that combined strong academic support with cultural experiences. I joined the London program, and it exceeded my expectations in every way. The pre-departure team guided me through each step, answering questions quickly and making me feel prepared before leaving. In London, the staff were welcoming and approachable, always checking in to make sure we were doing well. The housing was safe and well-located, which made daily life so much easier. I especially loved the excursions and cultural activities—they helped me explore London and other parts of the UK in ways I wouldn’t have managed on my own. What stood out most was the community I built. I met people who became close friends, and the experience gave me more independence and confidence. Professionally, I gained skills in adaptability and communication that I know will help me in the future. I’d recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking for a program that balances academics, culture, and support in a truly meaningful way.

I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad with CIS Abroad in Thailand during the fall of 2024, and I can confidently say that it was an experience of a lifetime. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to broaden their horizons. The on-site staff were exceptional, offering unwavering support throughout the entire journey. Their dedication truly made a difference. The cultural richness of Thailand is something I’ll never forget. Thanks to CIS Abroad, I was able to explore countless temples, enjoy local cuisine, and visit beautiful islands and vibrant cities. One of the program’s standout features is its encouragement for students to travel and immerse themselves in new experiences. The staff not only helped prepare us for academics but also ensured we felt confident navigating the country independently. This experience reshaped my perspective on the world. I had the privilege of meeting people from diverse backgrounds, which allowed me to learn and grow in ways I never expected. I also gained a sense of confidence that I didn’t know I needed, thriving in an unfamiliar environment where communication was often challenging due to language barriers. CIS Abroad goes above and beyond to support its students. From teaching about local culture to offering academic assistance (specific to Thailand), they foster an environment of growth and opportunity. Their consistent communication throughout the semester was invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend CIS Abroad. It’s more than just an academic program—it’s a transformative experience that will empower you to truly live your best life while exploring the world.

If I had to describe my study abroad experience in one word, it would be extraordinary. It was no question that I wanted to study abroad. Ever since my mom told me endless stories about her experience in college, I knew I needed to follow in her footsteps and become worldly. When it came to making a decision on where I wanted to go, London was my top choice. I had been to Europe before but never England. London always fascinated me with its dynamic cultural backgrounds and its plethora of entertainment. Once the location was settled, I then chose to go with API. During my application process, API was extremely helpful in assisting me with any questions or concerns I had. They helped make the application process easier and less stressful. API made my arrival to London very easy as they gave me clear instructions prior to my flight over. My Resident Director was also extremely approachable which made my adjustment to London seamless. I made amazing friends from API who I was fortunate enough to travel with during the semester. I also made great friends in my classes and am so glad they got to expose me to their ways of life in London. I went to London with an open mind and am extremely fortunate that I was able to expand my horizons. Going abroad taught me that it is so much more than attending classes and doing school work. I learned self reliance and gained so much confidence within myself. I cannot wait to bring back the knowledge I have obtained and share it with other students who want to go abroad and have the experience of a lifetime.

I did my study abroad with API in 2021 as regular covid was dying down and before omicron kicked in. There were some things changed because of the pandemic but they took a lot of precautions and I felt very safe doing my study abroad with them. I loved every second of it. They have a good amount of group activities where you can get to know other people but a great balance of free time outside of your courses to explore. I was able to do so much in the few months I was there and as soon as I left decided I needed to move back. I was accepted into grad school in London this year. This program gave me the opportunity to feel out a new place and learn to love it while having a support system of people familiar with the area. It absolutely changed my life for the better.

I did the London College of Fashion study abroad experience and it was the best summer of my life!!! API was extremely helpful in everything from getting off the plane at Heathrow to my last week in London, API made England feel like my home away from home!!!! I loved every second of it and was able to fully immerse myself into the new culture in England. API was there every step of the way planning fun events and making sure I was taken care of the whole time! They showed us the ropes of the tube and took us on tours all over London and even cities and towns outside of London! I seriously could not have asked for a better summer!

I love studying in South Korea! It was a bit of a culture shock when I arrived as this trip was a lot of firsts for me, like my first plane ride, time in an airport, and trip outside the country! The sunrises are beautiful, and the Cherry Blossom season is one of a kind. As a picky eater, Korea helped me find more foods to try and experiences I liked. If I had to do something different, I would travel more independently and get lost through exploring. The biggest advice I have is to give it a fair shot and do it. There will be moments when you'll get frustrated with not knowing what to expect, but take those in stride and be patient with yourself.

I had the opportunity to study abroad in London, England Summer of 2023 for the June session. I cannot possibly recommend this program enough. I had an incredible time, not only did I have so much fun but I learned so much. With AIFS you are not just traveling to another country, you are emerging yourself in the culture. They offered so many opportunities to be a part of life there. My personal favorite example was having the opportunity to attend a Cricket match with others from my program. I had never seen anything like it in my life and it was so much fun. Not to mention the class that I took, British Life and Culture was one of my favorite classes I have ever taken because it not only taught us about the history of England but also how it shapes modern society. We learned so much about the difference in our cultures and how there are many different perspectives on life. I will also never forget the lifelong friends I made through this experience. Getting to explore this incredible city with the most incredible people who are all there to have the same experience was truly something that changed my life forever and I am so grateful.

Going abroad to London with CEA CAPA was an amazing experience! All the staff was very helpful and effective, they had everything ready for your arrival and they kept in touch during the whole program. The classes I took were amazing, most of them had a lot of field trips related to class content so it was very fun and engaging. I also did an internship abroad which helped me immerse in the culture and grow professionally and personally. London is an awesome multicultural city full of things to do and learn. My experience abroad with this program was amazing!

Interning while in London was wonderful. The internship team was helpful and supportive. Navigating a new country is extremely difficult, especially when you also take on an internship, but the team at CEA CAPA made it a breeze. I had a different internship placement originally but it conflicted with my class schedule and luckily the team in London was able to re-assign me. It was a life-changing experience and extremely rewarding, one that I am so grateful to have added to my résumé. I can’t recommend this program enough!

CEA responded to this reviewMay 16, 2024

Hi Kyra! Thanks for reviewing and recommending your internship abroad from London.

In the summer of 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to visit London through AIFS's three-week program, and it turned out to be the adventure of a lifetime. The program's well-thought-out structure not only provided enriching classroom experiences but also allowed ample room for exploration. I was able to see other parts of the country, not just the London area. I visited historical sites such as the Roman baths, Stonehenge, and Hampton Court Palace. Immersing myself in the local culture became a highlight, thanks to the program's exciting excursions. One memorable instance was attending a performance of "The Lion King" at the West End theater alongside my classmates. This was a truly unforgettable experience that has left a lasting impression on me. Overall, I had an amazing time in London and would recommend this program to anyone interested in studying abroad!

As part of AIFS Abroad in London, my classmates and I got to explore numerous parts of London, learn about luxury branding and British culture, and travel to major cultural landmarks. Our class was informative as well as engaging. We got personal tours of iconic British luxury hotels (ie. The Dorchester, The Waldorf), as well as went to the Burlington Arcade. AIFS also made sure to plan activities to bring the students together and give us a memorable experience. I greatly enjoyed seeing Stonehenge and going to an English Country Dance class. I'll never forgot what I learned in the classroom or my experiences with my classmates exploring London!

My summer abroad truly changed my life. As exaggerated as it sounds, it really is true. I never thought that I would be able to step outside my comfort zone as much as I did this summer. Going to another country by yourself for the first time is extremely intimidating but AIFS made it as smooth and breezy as possible. The whole process of applying as well as the preparation with flights and transportation. My mind was immediately put at ease. Furthermore the program provided so many opportunities to immerse ourselves into the culture and experience new things. We went to a cricket game, we saw The Play That Goes Wrong, we went on tours of Greenwich and Oxford, and so much more. They also provided us with ample safety information as well as assistance with directions and guidance on how to ensure that we were comfortable and confident to explore and live our best lives while in the beautiful city of London. The class I took, British Life and Culture was an incredibly enriching class where we got to see London and it's history through the eyes of a local. I learned so much and enjoyed every second.