Advanced Studies in England: Summer School in Bath

I am so glad I made the decision to participate in ASE Summer School 2015. I enjoyed two challenging yet not overwhelming history classes that explored the city and used our location to enhance our learning (Romans in Britain and Domestic Soldiers). I lived in a beautiful 19th-century villa with 7 other housemates and we enjoyed living in a regular neighborhood of Bath, rather than a dormitory. The entire ASE staff was incredibly welcoming and supportive, from giving recommendations on the best pubs, to advice on good day trips, to figuring out the British grocery store. The ASE staff also organized fantastic social excursions for us to Cornwall, London, Oxford, Stonehenge, and Glastonbury--these trips are what make ASE stand out from other study abroad programs.
I will always happily remember my time in Bath.

It's very hard for me to believe that it has been just slightly over a year since I was last across the pond and taking part in this wonderful program.

What I believe to be most difficult, especially upon my return, was trying to describe the program and all that had taken place in just the short five weeks. The only word I seem to keep coming back to is "perfect."

Advanced Studies in England (ASE) have put together one of the greatest overall experiences I've ever been a part of. The program sends students to some of the most incredible places that leaves you feeling as though you've seen the variety that's across England. In addition to some seriously astounding views that would even make the most pristine Instagram account blush. The staff is incredible from tutors Rob, Laura, and Bill to the office crew of Emma, Lindsay, Lucy, and Sue. Seriously some of the kindest people I've ever met.

If you choose to explore, make the most of your time, and put in the necessary work, you will be more than rewarded for the effort and will be forever changed for it.

Honestly, this program was incredible. It did a fantastic job of both educating and introducing us as students to the country. In the day to day life, I got to eat fantastic foods at great little restaurants throughout the city, enjoy the fantastic sights, and immerse myself in the city.

Students also got to go on these awe-inspiring trips over the course of the summer semester. Each trip was very well planned and coordinated. The trips, despite being meticulously planned, were still absolute blasts. I can honestly say I have never personally had as much fun anywhere else.

Overall, I will always cherish the memories this program left me and I hope to revisit Bath again sometime in the near future.

Studying with ASE was the best decision I could have made. The immersion in the community- to go to the market, become familiar with local pubs and shopkeepers, memorize different running and hiking routes, and explore the city in general- was exactly what I wanted. The professors were so knowledgeable and passionate, I never resented having to go to class. The entire faculty and staff were so helpful as we got settled and continued to be actively involved in different events and outings. The city is STUNNING; it's the perfect combination of busy and fun while also being quaint and local. I found that the program did an incredible job matching students for housing; my housemates and I got along almost perfectly and had the best time traveling both in and out of England together (and we're still in touch back in the States!). I never wanted to leave and cannot wait to go back.