Art History Study Abroad Programs in Oxford, England

I had originally gone to the Middlebury CMRS program because I wanted to prove that I was better than anyone else; however, once I realized that there was more to Oxford than merely intelligence (after a prolonged period not going outside), this quickly fell by the wayside. To be surrounded by bookshelves that had their own horizons, maze-like streets you didn't mind getting lost within, and pubs galore to go have philosophical discussions whilst downing another Guinness, it's all a treat that I hope to take part in again. I grew as a result of the program, as I no longer feel as though I have to prove my worth to anyone. Instead, I only wish to grow as a means to become a better citizen of the world.

My time at Middlebury CMRS was really rewarding. Adjusting to a new academic environment and system was definitely intimidating at first, but I grew to really appreciate the change, especially because of how much it pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Until coming to this program, I didn't realize how quickly I could read and write, and that helped me overcome intellectual/academic perfectionism. The tutorial system was definitely difficult and lots of work, but it felt really good to be taken so intellectually seriously by Oxford tutors, and the system also allowed me to create strong relationships with each of my tutors. By the end, I felt very proud of myself for taking on such a difficult course/workload and realizing that I could still keep up and do well. It built my intellectual confidence and also allowed me to meet some really wonderful people and create some really cool experiences and memories.

Before my study abroad journey, I was filled with excitement, mostly about the idea of being in a new country and soaking in a different culture. I had high hopes, but honestly, both London and the IES Abroad program exceeded every expectation I had. Of course, I got to experience all the iconic London attractions you dream about: the London Eye, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace—every postcard landmark was just as magical in real life. But what really surprised me was how much more there was beyond the tourist side. One of the most unforgettable experiences was a trip organised by IES to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s not a place I would’ve ever put on my personal travel itinerary, but it ended up being one of the highlights of my entire time abroad. That trip showed me a completely different side of the UK, natural, historical, and deeply beautiful. While most people think of study abroad as all about travel and adventure (which it definitely is), I have to highlight how incredible the academic side was, too. The classes were intellectually engaging, and the professors brought a whole new perspective to learning. What I loved most was how they incorporated the city and our experiences into the classroom. We went to art galleries, had community volunteering placements, and brought real-life news to discuss in class that made learning feel holistic and alive. If I had the chance, I would absolutely do it all over again.

This program was exactly what I hoped for and then some! For any students interested in healthcare, this is the perfect combination of community engagement and healthcare policy. The courses are very relevant to today's healthcare debates, and the professors are very advanced in their fields. They want to learn from students as much as they want to teach. The program also has a community volunteer placement, which is a great way to work with local initiatives, learn more about a public healthcare system, and engage with locals. The conclusion of the program is spent in Jamaica for ten days, where students are able to shadow in local healthcare clinics, attend lectures at the local university, and explore sights across the island. This was my favorite part of the program and I miss it every day!

I had a great time studying abroad in London! My program was theater focused and my professors were very knowledgeable. My program planned many fun weekend trips and the admin made sure to also host small events too. I felt supported throughout it all. I would highly recommend IES Abroad.

Studying abroad with IES allowed me to have an unforgettable semester in London! I was a part of the Direct Enrollment program at University College London (UCL), and IES helped me through all parts of the process, from the application, my arrival, and during my time in London.

Participating in this program will forever be one of the best decisions I've ever made. The administration and staff were incredibly responsive to the students' concerns and helped us immerse ourselves into both a new country and intimidating academic environment. The professors they recruited to teach us were also wonderfully knowledgeable and kind; my writing grew significantly under the author Rebecca Gowers and my knowledge of Shakespeare was put into fun twists with Dr. Juliana Dresvina. Apart from the academics, it was invigorating to spend an entire semester with a cohort of students who were just as excited as I was to experience Oxford, learn, and do life together for a little bit (i.e. Thanksgiving dinner, birthday parties, pubbing, shows, traveling). I've come away with a greater understanding of English and history, a group of friends I am so proud to know, and a newfound confidence in my academic and social abilities.

My time at the University of College of London was terrific. There really isn't anything you can compare to going to a country and knowing almost nothing (no matter how much research you do). You not only learn about a new country but also yourself while you live there. I did just that I wouldn't be here without my study abroad experience. I am a grad student now at USC and the master's program I chose was inspired by a class I took at UCL. Everyone was super kind and great to explore with. The people I meet there I still connect with and have a close bond with. Overall, my experience was phenomenal and I wish every college student gets to experience what I did.

Step 1: Go. And don't look back. I grew so much as a human and performer (which is what I was studying) in my time abroad. I had the entire world, culturally and artistically, at my fingertips. Each weekend I would sit with my friends, over a full potluck we cooked together at only 19 or 20 years old, and decide whether or not we wanted to go see 3 shows on the West End this weekend, or go to France and try escargot and fine wine. To put it simply, the availability to extend myself whichever way I wanted, grew me. The opportunities to be around some of the best theatre in the world, grew me. Making my own choices and handling my own responsibilities halfway across the world, grew me.

After being back in the States for almost four months, I am still continuing to rave over my study abroad program. I loved IES and everything they had to offer. The London center was phenomenal-professors, staff, location. All of the classes that I chose to take gave us a chance to be immersed into the London culture, with field trips to art and history museums, walking tours of the various London neighborhoods, and theatre performances. All of my professors were knowledgeable in their fields, and I learned a lot from them. The staff at the IES Center were always very friendly and helpful. I was a part of the running and yoga clubs, and got to know some of the staff members because of it. These extra-curricular opportunities not only continued to allow us to get to know London better, but it allowed us to get to know the people we were studying with, and showed us that the staff at the center weren't just there as staff. They were there to help make our study abroad experience the best it could be! And when I got sick during our exam week, I was able to get into see a doctor immediately, and everyone-staff and professors-were extremely accommodating. I always felt safe in London too. My apartment was in a great neighborhood, with only a twenty minute bus ride to most of the iconic London places. All of the housing locations were close to each other too, which made visiting friends even easier.

When I left for my study abroad program, I had no expectations. I had never been to Europe before and as excited as I was to embark on this journey, it was hard to believe that I would be living in a foreign country for four months. But I did, and I absolutely loved it. I used to think it was cliché when someone would tell me that studying abroad would change my life, but after my experience with the IES Study London Program, I can honestly say that it did. Not only was our housing situation fantastic, and complete with all of the amenities one could need, but the staff was also brilliant! I can genuinely say I have never enjoyed going to class more than I did while in London. The classes are all fairly small and the professors really take the time to help you better understand the culture you are living in. Our academic advisors were also amazing and got to know each of us on a personal level. This made the transition very smooth, and it made me feel as though I had a group of English friends from the start. All of the class trips were very fun and educational, and it allowed for students to affordably travel around the United Kingdom. Although IES gave us a great deal of support, they also gave us the time to explore London on our own and truly become immersed in the culture. This was the best of studying abroad, in my opinion. When I say that this program changed my life for the better, I truly mean it. Going on this adventure not only gave me a new perspective on the world, and my life, but it also gave me friendships that will last a lifetime. Experiencing a new city, and a new culture, gave me a newfound confidence and showed me how much this world has to offer, outside of college. I truly had the best time, and I would recommend this program to anyone who is considering studying abroad.

I studied abroad in London with the IES London and Jamaica program this past fall semester. Most of the semester was sent in London while the last 10 days of the program was spent in Kingston, Jamaica. This scholarship helped cover the program cost as well help aide in some of my experiences across Europe. In London I took classes with IES and city university of London. In addition to my classes, I volunteered at Maggie’s Cancerkin at the Royal free clinic. Maggie’s is a national charity organization that helps cancer patients adjust and cope with their lives after been diagnosed. This is done through various forms of counselling and therapy sessions. Maggie’s also organizes some social events for its patients. I was heartened by this objective and thought it was a great way for these patients to establish support groups that helps them. I loved my time volunteering there and loved learning about the various cancer therapy sessions patients can undergo. The one class I took that I felt most prepared me for a future career as a nurse was Comparative Health Systems: Great Britain, Europe and the United States with Professor Johal Gurnam. The class talked about the history of the NHS and the current status of it within the UK. The class also talked about the different types of health systems and what some European countries and the U.S. use. We of course also discussed the current ongoing Brexit situation which involves Britain existing the European Union and the impacts this will cause health workers from other countries who travel to Britain for work. I loved learning about the different health disparities in different nations and what government and health professionals could do to ensure an effective care for all. At the end of the semester, we held a symposium on themes surrounding the US Healthcare System. We compared and contrasted various aspects of health under the Obama Administration and Trump Administration. We presented these to our professor and other academic professionals. While taking classes and volunteering, I also got the chance to explore London. Some places I visited were the London Eye, British Parliament, Camden Town , the Sky Garden and the Tower Bridge. My favorite place out of these was the Tower Bridge. It is beautifully constructed, and I didn’t truly feel like I was in London till I walked on that bridge. I also of course got a touristy London pic with a red phone booth to fully capture the experience. Another place I really loved visiting was Camden Town, the buildings were so colorful, and the people were so friendly, walking around it felt like I was part of a community. I learned how a lot of musicians started out in Camden town and some even performed there including one direction and my one of my favorite artists, Adele. The British Parliamentary building was cool as well and I loved learning about the history behind the conservative and labor governments. Although London and Europe shaped my knowledge of the NHS and various other aspects of European Health, I believe that Kingston was the place that impacted me the most and also prepared me for my future as a nurse. In Kingston, we took courses at the University of Mona, west indies taught by various health professionals ranging from nursing professors to public health nurses. we took tours to uptown and downtown Kingston and just by observation, we could notice the environmental and health disparities of the rich uptown people versus the impoverished downtown people. In addition, I personally volunteered at two health clinics, the Edna Manley Clinic and Windward Road Clinic in Kingston.

The IES Abroad - UK Today program was amazing. Choosing to go to London was one of the best decisions of my life. IES made everything very easy from the start so I didn't have to go into the program with any confusion or worry. In the weeks before I left for London, the IES advisor for my program was excellent with answering my questions or concerns. I have always been a planner and they definitely made it easy. When I got to London it seemed so big and crazy, but IES helped me acclimate to it very quickly and soon the neighborhood felt more like home. The locations of my residence hall and classes were very centralized and easy to navigate. I took two courses with the IES program and had amazing professors for both of them. Both Professors were amazing and had such passion for the courses that they were teaching. My British Youth Culture class is easily on of the best classes I have taken in my college career. Throughout my time in London I always felt safe and like I was able to still be an adult and explore the city on my own. IES gave me the space I needed but also was always there if I needed advice on places to eat, cool sites to see, and how the world cup worked (among other things). I was able to travel through England and Europe with ease over the weekends with the other students in my program, it made it very hard to leave and come back to the U.S..

I loved my time abroad. London is such a wonderful and international city that it was easy to find myself lost in the culture. As a health practice and policy student I was assigned to a service learning placement. I did my placement with Holy Cross Centre Trust and was given opportunities to work hands on in the field of mental health. Whether it was running group sessions, to meeting with my one on one assigned patients, the experience was rich and enlightening. Over seas it was tough making friends at first, however through IES I was able to meet a group of girls that I will forever be close with. It was easy to travel from London, and I took advantage of that to the fullest. IES made it easy to make the most of my experience abroad.

Studying through this program was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I would go back tomorrow if I were able. Not only were the professors absolutely amazing, but the way the program itself allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the city through classes and group outings really gave us a unique perspective of being able to use the city to our advantage. The staff at the IES center were always willing to help you with even the smallest concerns and I can't thank them enough for their support on the journey.

One of the most valuable things I did for my public health education was studying abroad with IES Abroad's HPP program in London and Oxford. I learned about public health from a European perspective; What are the priorities for health promotion in the UK? What are the current initiatives? How did England's health stats of today develop? I gained a well-rounded knowledge on the public health policies in Europe. I gained experience in the field through a service learning course, which functioned like an internship in London. Lastly, this program gave me perspective on a completely different country: Jamaica. The last week of the program, we traveled to Kingston to study at the major nursing school there and shadow at three health clinics. These experiences were invaluable to my public health education. I loved the professors I had. They each had interesting and unique research to share with us. They were understanding to our position as American students in a foreign country. I made amazing friends. We had a shared kitchen on our floor and that's how I made close friends- by cooking with others. We also got to know each other well through our Oxford class because we took the hour-long train ride together to class each week. I loved London for its parks and markets. It really got me outside, walking the pretty city streets despite the cold. Definitely my favorite city.

As a health policy and administration major, I was very excited to see that there was a program that aligned with my academic goals. Being able to learn about public health in London was an absolutely incredible experience and I loved hearing the perspectives from my professors. Living in the city of London is amazing. You are very centrally located and there is always so much to do- no matter what your interests are. This program also gives you the opportunity to take a class at Oxford. While you do have to catch a very early train, and spend most of your day Friday in class and traveling to and from Oxford, which limits your ability to travel some weekends, it was definitely worth it! I really improved my writing and critical thinking skills. The Oxford class also doesn't start until a few weeks into the program so you still will have the opportunity to travel and I was still able to find time to travel after I got home from Oxford on Friday. Another unique element of this program is that you have the opportunity to participate in a service learning. I was able to volunteer at a cancer support center, which was a very valuable experience to me. The best part of the study abroad experience was the trip to Jamaica. We got to observe in clinics around Jamaica and also got to see a lot of the country. We were able to go to Blue Lagoon, the Blue Mountains and a few local beaches. We also attended lectures at the University of the West Indies. Even though before going to Jamaica, nobody was ready to leave London by the end everyone really enjoyed the trip to Jamaica and found it worthwhile. The IES staff were absolutely incredible. As someone who has an ongoing medical condition, they were always extremely helpful in helping me find doctors and working through all of that kind of stuff. The living accommodation is smaller than traditional American style dorms, but it has everything you need. I also would recommend on going on any of the field trips that IES provides. It is very organized and takes a lot of the stress off that comes with planning a trip. Overall, I would recommend this study abroad program to anyone who is interested in public health!

Growing up on Harry Potter and a love for tea, Studying abroad in London was a no brainer. IES was extremely helpful in preparing for the move and continued to help with any questions I had once I was there. My accommodation was great and located near the biggest tube station in London so getting places was very easy. The classes at IES were interesting and a lot of the times were not held in an actual class room. The instructors would take the class around the city to give us an in person view of the building or the exact spot where a monumental event happened. This brought the information alive and was far more engaging than reading about it in a book. I planned my class schedule to allow me to have a 4 day weekend, leaving a lot of free time to travel to different countries and to also explore the great city of London. The city has so much to offer you and you'll only regret it if you don’t go and see for yourself.

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to travel to England. I grew up on Harry Potter and the Chronicles of Narnia, and I always loved British culture. In high school, I was determined that in college I would study abroad in London. Last summer my dreams came true when IES Abroad gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. Honestly, I had a lot of doubts about going overseas by myself for an entire summer. Would I get homesick? Would I make any friends? Would my classes be too hard or too boring? But IES made me feel at home in London and created the best experience possible for me. The staff at IES London were absolutely incredible. They were always there to help us, give us tips and ideas, or even just to chat. There were so many trips and events for us to attend in our free time and I feel like the program really helped me make the most out of my time abroad. My classes were great, as well. The professors were knowledgeable and made the classes exciting. I learned so much and experienced the city in different ways through my classes. Although, there wasn't much of an opportunity to make local friends, I made a group of friends in my program that I wouldn't trade for anything. They absolutely made the experience the best it could possibly be. We spent so much time exploring and even just hanging out together, and we still keep in touch. I know it sounds cliche, but I really do believe I grew as a person because of this experience. I gained a new sense of independence and a new viewpoint of the world. Without a doubt it was the best summer of my life and the best choice I have ever made to study abroad. No matter what you are studying or what doubts you have, study abroad sometime during your college career. You will not regret it. I loved my experience with IES Abroad and I miss that summer every day!

After dreaming about studying in London for almost 10 years, I was able to attend University College London for a semester through IES Abroad. The US staff was incredibly helpful with pre-departure information, and the London staff were an excellent "home base" for information, questions, and concerns. I didn't feel like the were babysitting me, but there were always there if I needed something. They helped coordinate doctor's appointments for me and always had someone manning their emergency phone. One of my favorite things about IES was the field trips they organized. They coordinated a handful of afternoon outings around London, as well as day & weekend trips around England. They were convenient, affordable, and brought me to so many interesting places I might not have visited otherwise. As much as I loved London, it was nice to get out of the city every now and then to explore these places! I took my classes at UCL, which is a top institution & part of University of London. I'm so glad I was able to experience the British school system by utilizing IES's Direct Enrollment Program. I lived in the same apartment complex as the other IES students at UCL, which was UCL housing and conveniently located in central London (close to public transportation and campus). My study abroad experience was fun, enriching, and a huge learning experience for me. I have IES to thank for making this journey run smoothly!