Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

London is home to me Past Review

By (Ball State University) - abroad from 05/18/2018 to 06/30/2018 with

AIFS London - Richmond, The American International University in London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I realized that I belong in London. I fit in with their culture more than Indiana's. The people I interacted with were so accepting and never made me feel like I was different just because of my skin color.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I enjoyed both my professors. They let us explore London to emphasize the point that the learning experience is not just in the classroom but out in the real world. I was able to learn so much better through these types of classes. I still remember almost everything they taught me even though it has been over a year.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were so incredibly helpful. I always felt comfortable going to them to ask questions.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Living in Kensington was incredible. The only downside was my roommates, but luckily enough, the next time I went, I did not have roommates and it made the experience so much more enjoyable.

* Food:

The food sometimes could be too hearty. Sometimes I would have just preferred a lighter option. Almost every meal was carbs on carbs.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I was able to make lifelong friends from London and other European countries. I was able to integrate myself so easily into the culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't particularly have to worry about any health issues but I had friends that did and they were treated promptly and effectively.

* Safety:

I did not feel unsafe ever in the Kensington area. It is one of the safest places in London. I felt at home and was able to walk alone many times.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I ended up going back the next summer again!

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

This was my biggest issue. I did not budget so well when I was there and blew through way more money then I should have within the first few weeks. It is very expensive in London.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Culture
  • Education
  • Meeting locals
* What could be improved?
  • Food options
  • Roommate pairing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How to budget.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.