Last Updated on June 9, 2023 by AIFS Abroad
We caught up with Kelsey Bridwell, an AIFS alum and one of our 2018-19 Alumni Ambassadors, who spent a semester in Budapest, Hungary! Here’s what she had to say about her study abroad experience:
Why did you choose the AIFS and the Budapest study abroad program?
I chose AIFS because no one else offered this location at my school and the classes offered at Corvinus University would allow me to graduate on time.
What are you studying and was there a connection to your choice of program location?
My major is Communications Studies and, as Corvinus University is a business school, many classes offered there applied to communications elective courses.
What are the strengths and unique features of the semester in Budapest program and about your program location?
I think this program is fairly affordable and the city itself is a very affordable place to travel to and from. It made for a great experience for me as I was on a tight budget when traveling abroad.
Tell us about some of the highlights of your experience.
We went on an excursion to Lake Balaton that was not only adventurous but culturally immersive!
Was there anything you did not expect?
I didn’t expect our Resident Director to be as supportive as she was. Deniz is great!
How did you learn, grow or change by studying abroad?
I learned a lot about myself, my true likes and dislikes and other things like how to be okay with and actually enjoy time alone. I have grown as far as I have become a more confident individual. Abroad I faced some real challenges, but facing those challenges in the environment I was in made for an intense yet fun learning experience.
Do you have any advice for future students spending a semester in Budapest?
I would say you should attempt to learn some Hungarian before you go abroad! Also, travel to countries that border Hungary; you will save so much money and experience a much higher cultural experience.
Would you recommend the program to other students?
I would highly recommend this program to any and all study abroad students!
