Wondering if a semester in England would be your cuppa tea? We recently caught up with AIFS Abroad student Dominique from Howard University, who spent her fall semester studying abroad at the AIFS Abroad Global Education Center (GEC) in London.
Discover how Dominique’s fall semester in London with AIFS Abroad inspired personal growth and helped her plan for the future.
Choosing a Program Destination & Term
With so many exciting study abroad programs across the globe, students can choose a destination that aligns with their academic goals and personal interests. Dominique’s program in London offered the perfect mix of international energy and academic flexibility:
“I chose London because of its cultural diversity, tourist attractions, and proximity to other countries. I would honestly recommend this program to anyone! The great thing about the MultiDiscipline program is that there are a variety of classes, so you shouldn’t have trouble fulfilling your degree requirements…[it] was a perfect fit for me.”
Timing is also an important consideration. Dominique chose the fall semester after considering how it would fit into her academic calendar and seasonal preferences:
“I chose to study abroad in the fall because it made the most sense for what was going on at my home university at the time. I wanted a smooth transition out of summer, and I liked that I would have winter break before returning to class. Also, my birthday is in the spring, and I did not want to spend my 21st birthday away from my friends and family. It ended up working out perfectly because London is gorgeous in the fall, and all of the holiday lights were so much fun to see.”
University Experience Abroad
Studying abroad lets you experience your academics in a totally new cultural context. At the AIFS Abroad Global Education Center (GEC) in London, Dominique enjoyed a learning environment designed to engage students beyond the traditional classroom:
“I studied at the AIFS Global Education Center. It had smaller classes and used experiential learning, so the experience was specifically tailored to study abroad students… I honestly enjoyed all ofmy classes; I really liked that all of my classes used the city as the classroom.”
Dominique took five courses in London, all of which helped her advance her degree as a sociology major and English minor at her home university:
“Three of my classes were major electives (criminology, British life & cultures, global cuisine), one was a minor elective (creative writing), and one was a divisional elective (museums & galleries).”
One course in particular left a lasting impact on Dominique by showing her how her academic interests play out beyond the classroom:
“My criminology class abroad really stuck with me. As a sociology major who works with incarcerated youth back home, it was so interesting to learn about the UK justice system and compare it to the U.S. I even got to observe a court proceeding, which was amazing. It gave me a new perspective on how different countries handle justice and rehabilitation.”
Cultural Appreciation
Studying abroad gave Dominique the time to slow down and discover all London had to offer. While it took her a moment to adjust to the culture, she found there was so much to appreciate about her new life abroad:
“I loved everything. I loved how simple life was compared to life in DC. I loved walking to the tube, I loved meal deals, I loved the holiday lights, I loved getting a pastry from M&S in the mornings, I loved the 24h trains––I really loved almost everything. London is so chill compared to where I live, so I had some difficulty adjusting, but not much.”
Housing
Good housing can make a huge difference when you study abroad. Fortunately, all AIFS Abroad programs provide our award-winning housing, which may include a shared apartment, dorms, or a homestay. Dominique’s student residence in London gave her some personal space while still offering opportunities to connect with some fellow participants:
“I stayed in a student apartment-style accommodation. I had my own double bed, my own bathroom, and a shared kitchen with 3 other girls.”
Activities & Excursions
Other valuable AIFS Abroad program offerings include our trips and excursions, as well as social and cultural activities. These events let students bond with one another, all while they enjoy unique experiences that help them learn more about their program destination. The activities included in Dominique’s program helped her feel connected from the start:
“I attended several [activities], but my favorites would have to be the hop-on-hop-off coach tour and the welcome pizza party at Ballie Ballerson.”
In addition to program-led events, she filled her free time with some truly local experiences:
“I went to so many fun events while I was in London! I went to an England game, saw Wicked at the Apollo Victoria, went ice skating at Battersea Park, and celebrated Guy Fawkes Day. I also saw Ravyn Lenae in concert. I really tried to make the most of my time there and experience as much as possible.”
Guy Fawkes Day, also called Bonfire Night, is an annual British commemoration observed on November 5th that features large bonfires and firework displays. It celebrates the arrest and failed plot of Guy Fawkes, who intended to assassinate Protestant King James I and his parliament in 1605. For anyone who studies or interns abroad in England or the greater U.K. during fall semester, it’s a great opportunityto experience a uniquely British celebration. Dominique remembers Guy Fawkes Day as a highlight of her study abroad experience:
“My favorite memory is Guy Fawkes Day. I went with a few friends to see the carnival rides and live performances, but my absolute favorite part was the fireworks. I will never ever forget that day; it was magical. I love fireworks so much, and it was so surreal to be watching them in London with my friends. It was truly like a movie. Those are my friends for life now, and I’m so glad we have such a beautiful memory together.”
Weekend Trips
When you’re not traveling with AIFS Abroad during your program, you’re welcome to do so by yourself or with others on the weekends and during school breaks. Dominique traveled with family to some iconic destinations across Europe:
“During fall break, I went to Paris with my cousin, and that was amazing—truly a dream come true. I also went to visit my family in Belgium, and we took a day trip to Amsterdam. This was the best week of my life, truly. I wish I could relive it.”
On-Site Support
One of the biggest advantages of AIFS Abroad programs is the support students receive both pre-departure and from on-site Program Directors. Before you depart, you’ll be connected with program coordinators who are there to answer your questions and help you prepare for your program. Once you arrive, there are trusted on-site staff who support you throughout your time abroad. As Dominique explained, just knowing she was supported at every step allowed her to go abroad with more confidence:
“I really liked how well-prepared I felt before going abroad, and that is all thanks to the program coordinators. I never had any questions about anything logistical because all the information was laid out and communicated to me simply and accessibly. During the program, I felt really supported by the staff and would always go to the common area to talk.”
The Impact of Studying Abroad
Students who study abroad often say that their program helped them experience so much personal and academic growth. For Dominique, this meant becoming more independent and self-assured:
“This was my first time traveling so extensively by myself. I’ve never had to navigate customs, foreign airports, and all that alone before. This experience significantly improved my self-confidence and independence. I feel like I can do anything.”
Looking ahead, Dominique’s time in London has already shaped her future plans:
“I am strongly considering attending grad school abroad, and I know 100% that I will be living abroad for at least a portion of my life. I truly did leave a piece of my heart in London.”
Final Thoughts from Dominique
To anyone considering studying abroad, Dominique leaves you with these final thoughts:
“Studying abroad was the best decision I ever made. It opened up my mind, my heart, literally everything. It made me realize the possibilities of life, and I feel like life truly began for me during that experience. I hope you have as much fun and learn as much as I did!”
Are you a college student who’s ready to take the leap and study abroad with AIFS Abroad like Dominique did in London? We’d love to help you start your journey!
Here at AIFS Abroad, we know a thing or two about helping college students and recent graduates study abroad. Our programs include everything you need: housing, comprehensive insurance, cultural and social activities, trips and excursions, 24/7 emergency support, on-site staff, and more. The only thing missing is you—so why wait to start your story abroad?
