It was a great experience and I would recommend it to everyone! Past Review

By (Mechanical Engineering., Miami University of Ohio) for

AIFS London - Richmond, The American International University in London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Experienced new cultures (visited 5 countries - weekend trips!) Met new different people, had a lot of fun and learned a lot about the world and myself.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Courses are only 3 weeks long but you actually learn a lot. The grading system is normal and it is pretty flexible for your travel arrangements. It worked perfectly. Teachers also were helpful in providing local knowledge and advice.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Took forever for them to fix our internet. The apartment had mice.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Great neighborhood, cool building, just needed better maintenance. The maid kept it clean but the University took 2 weeks to get out internet working and didn't resolve the mice issue.

* Food:

No shortage of places to eat in London. It is expensive. I lived in one of their apartment buildings so I had a kitchen which saved me lots of money. Their dorm building doesn't really have kitchens/refrigerators so you would end up spending more on restaurants. Don't let that stop you though. Even in Kensington you can find cheap places!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Had a great group that went to the pubs and hung out together. The advisors help plan lots of activities and trips. Never a dull moment!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

No problems. Its London!

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

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Classes are designed to not take up all your time, so you are free to explore.
  • Many small "field trip" activities are offered for little or no cost!
* What could be improved?
  • Internet issues
  • Maintenance of apartment
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Anyone would benefit. London isnt a drastic change from America. Its a great place to start.