Meet Four College Students Who Studied Abroad in England

64

England is overflowing with cultural experiences and valuable academic opportunities across a wide range of fields. AIFS Abroad offers many study abroad programs in London, an ideal destination for students who want to study abroad in an English-speaking location and attend a well-respected university in a booming metropolis. Want to learn more about what it’s really like to study abroad in England?

Hear from four college students who did a study abroad program in England with AIFS Abroad! 

Jadyn: Spring Semester in London 

Jadyn from Howard University studied abroad in London during her spring semester. Hear why she chose London as her program destination: 

“I’d studied other languages here and there in high school and college, but not nearly enough to feel super comfortable [speaking those] languages. So, I just chose England, specifically London, because they speak English. But also, I’m an English minor and I love literature, drama, and plays, so it’s huge here, and I was just really excited to experience all of that firsthand.” 

While Jadyn loves classic London landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the several stunning bridges over the Thames, her favorite place in London is the Waterstone Kensington bookstore—the perfect place for a bibliophile like herself (and Princess Diana!) to unwind: 

“Princess Diana used to come here. She used to come down to the basement level and sit and read her books and nobody would bother her, and it was just such a peaceful space for her to relax and just feel normal. When you come here today you feel that same peace and serenity and you get to sit and relax and be surrounded by books. And I am a book lover, so I love it here.” 

Kaitlyn: Summer at Shakespeare’s Globe 

Kaitlyn from Western Michigan University studied abroad in London during the summer before her senior year of college. She did a Theater program in London at Shakespeare’s Globe, offered via the AIFS Abroad Global Education Center in England. Hear Kaitlyn explain her favorite part of her study abroad program: 

“My favorite part is getting to be immersed in the [place] where the plays all began! Specifically, the Globe stage itself, you get to learn a whole new way of performing and working with others on the stage. I also love all the excursions we go on, including seeing Cabaret on the west end, a bus tour around London, and a trip to Brighton where Shakespeare was born!” 

Wondering what theater classes are like at the Shakespeare Globe in London? Kaitlyn describes them in detail below: 

“[Classes are] definitely a more hands-on experience! There are a couple of seminars, but for most classes you are in the Globe studio, up on your feet, and applying what you have learned to your scene performance!” 

Our course consists of classes in Shakespeare text, voice, movement, acting seminar, stage combat, London’s history, and today we are learning a jig! We are at the Globe Education Center Monday – Thursday from about 2 – 9 PM. The final result is a performance of three scenes from Much Ado About Nothing, presented to the Globe staff!” 

Rayna: Fall Semester in London 

Did you know that gap year students and freshmen can study abroad? That’s right! With AIFS Abroad, you can study abroad when it works for you. Hear Rayna, who studied abroad in London during fall semester, introduce herself and the timing of her program: 

“I am a freshman at the university of Georgia, so I’ll be starting [college] in the spring. So, I’m doing AIFS first.” 

London is one of the major theater capitals of the world. As Rayna explains, seeing local plays was one of her favorite parts about studying abroad in London with AIFS Abroad: 

“I love the theater scene here. I love seeing theater when I’m at home and being from Atlanta I have the Fox Theatre and a bunch of local theaters near me, so I love seeing all of that. But [in London] I went to go see MJ [the Musical] [and] I actually saw Next to Normal before it closed. And then I’m taking a theater class with AIFS so we get to see a bunch of plays here in London, so last week we saw Shifters—we’re going to analyze that in class. And then we’re seeing The Play That Goes Wrong. I love having the theater theme so close and easily accessible here.” 

Jade: Summer in London 

Jade from the University of Nevada studied abroad in London during the summer at the University College of London (UCL). Below, she explains why she chose this program in London: 

“AIFS provided programs that were within my budget as well as my interests. [This] was the only program during the summer that had sustainability courses available for both sessions (at least ones I was interested in). Plus, having UCL as a resume builder is so helpful.” 

AIFS Abroad programs are designed to not only be enriching cultural and academic experiences, but also to help you make friends with other students from the get-go. Hear Jade explain her experience making friends in London: 

“I didn’t know a single person before coming here! It was scary but I decided to jump in blind. Also, all the AIFS students doing both sessions at UCL were grouped together so we became close literally after the first day of arrival.” 

Below, Jade explains one of her favorite things about London: 

“I honestly love how walkable the city is, each area of London is a new place, and you can explore everything just by walking. Coming from the U.S. where driving is a must, it’s a nice change of pace to walk. Also, you can find good eats just about anywhere within walking distance.” 

Study abroad in London with AIFS Abroad and you won’t have to rely just on walking. Every participant receives a public transportation card that allows you to travel throughout zones 1 +2 (where students spend a majority of their time), as Jade explains: 

“Navigating around London has been super easy. AIFS provides each student an Oyster [transit] Card that allows unlimited usage between zones 1+2.” 

Set the stage for unforgettable cultural and academic experiences like these college students did—study abroad in England with AIFS Abroad! 

AIFS Abroad offers a wide range of study abroad programs in England, each tailored to meet specific academic and personal preferences. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the world-famous theater culture, soak up literary inspiration, or advance your degree in a number of other fields, there’s a program in England for you! Study abroad with AIFS Abroad and take advantage of our valuable program inclusions (which really take the stress out of planning!), such as housing, trips and excursions, social and cultural activities, comprehensive insurance, 24/7 emergency support, and the support of our trusted on-site staff.