London: Same Language, Different Life Past Review
By Jessica B (Art History, Criticism and Conservation., Indiana University of Pennsylvania) for
AIFS London - Richmond, The American International University in London
My life has been changed so drastically. I was stuck pre-London. I didn't know what direction I wanted to go, where I wanted to be after graduating with a BA. After being in London and traveling the UK, Europe and, Morocco I realized that there are so many things I want to do and London released the inner me, I felt at peace and comfortable. Like I said, I went to Morocco for Spring Break alone, and when I flew back into Heathrow I actually started crying because I was so happy to be in London. Even now writing this I am getting butterflies. This is the feeling of being "Home." I already plan on looking for a job over there after graduation. I HAD A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
My classes were so amazing, I learned so many things. The professors graded a bit harder than in the US. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Someone was always there to help you via e-mail or in person. I couldn't have had a better experience. I worked and I played and met so many new friends that will last a lifetime. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I was a very posh neighborhood in the borough of Kensington. I felt beyond safe, I was close to everything I needed and the public transportation is AMAZING!!! |
| * Food: |
The food was good, but not a extremely wide variety for a vegetarian, I was very happy that meals were provided though! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
All events school related were very beneficial to meeting people and getting to travel at a low price! |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I felt safer there then I do in the US, London, even some more urban parts comforted me. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | This program is for anyone I believe, I am an outgoing "hippie" who living in a posh area felt at home. You can stay in your neighborhood or take the train to France. A wide spectrum can be accommodated by this program in London. Meals are included which is good for your wallet! I had the time of my life. |
