Alumni Spotlight: Bridget Walsh

Why did you decide to study abroad with AIFS at the University of Granada?

Bridget: I really wanted a lot of cultural activities to go along with my study abroad experience. AIFS offered that with not only a welcome weekend in London, but also cultural trips to Seville, Cordoba, as well as cultural activities every week in Granada. I learned SO much about Spain just from visiting the sites and paying attention to our guides provided by AIFS.

The staff, compared with other study abroad companies were a LOT more helpful. If I had questions regarding the application process or about the program, I was answered immediately with a personalized, in depth answer. I felt confident and prepared by the time of departure.

What made your study abroad experience unique and special?

Bridget: I have traveled a little before this experience, but nothing topped it. I guess it had to do with the setting and the amount of freedom associated with the program. Some programs I looked into had activities planned for every weekend and the classes were rigorous. This was much more laid back and I was free to travel to other countries and do my own thing. The cultural activities, like stated before, were amazing.

Bridget in Granada, Spain during her AIFS trip

How has this experience impacted your future?

Bridget: I am already planning more international trips (currently, Peru--I'm hoping to go next year!) and traveling has become one of my biggest passions in life. This experience will also help me professionally in that I am majoring in Nursing and Spanish, so many hospitals today look for bilingual medical staff. This experience also helped me academically and socially in that I learned SO MUCH in traveling. I am able to understand another language (how cool is that?!) and appreciate other cultures other than my own.