Forum-Nexus Study Abroad

Why did you choose this program?

I chose Forum-Nexus' Ultimate Summer in Europe because I wanted to see and experience as many European destinations as possible in a short amount of time. This program offered 7 destinations in just over a month's time.

Traveling with a consistent group of students me feel safe, comfortable and have a lot of fun. The Forum-Nexus staff hails from multiple different countries so they had a unique perspective and "inside scoop" on each location which pushed me to indulge into surrounding cultures to the fullest.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

Forum-Nexus made planning easy! I booked my long haul flights to Europe and they basically took care of the rest! They helped me select classes that would fit my goals, booked hotels and professional visits in each city, and took care of booking all my inter-city transportation. The staff even organized student group chats to help connect with others so we could plan weekend trips together.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

DO IT ALL! You will never have another opportunity like this one, maximize it! Try new foods, talk to new people (test out some of your new foreign language skills!), see everything you can while you are there.

Life is too short to say "I'll do that when I come back." This study abroad will open your eyes to incredible things and you'll think bigger because of it! Embrace the growth.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

Typically on weekdays, you start your day with free hotel breakfast then you head to class! Most classes are held at local universities where the Forum-Nexus professors teach the class. Around midday, you are free to head out and grab lunch. After that, afternoons and evenings consist of free time, cultural activities or professional visits. Weekends are open so you can choose to stay in the base city, or plan independent travel to a place near by!

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear going into this study abroad experience was that I wouldn't make friends. Instantly, I was proven wrong! I clicked with a few girls right away and as the trip went on, our circle became even larger. Everyone is in the same boat - all trying to meet others! Forum-Nexus facilitates enough structure to encourage making friends but you can still have your downtime if you'd like it.

What is your favorite travel memory?

I've traveled to more than 25 countries so there are many great memories but my favorite was my first trip with Forum-Nexus. It was my first study abroad experience and the first time to travel abroad without my family. I made so many friends from all over the world. and experienced what Forum-Nexus calls "a life-changing experience".

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

Forum-Nexus is a life-changing experience. I've become more open to different ideas, more independent, and of course a global citizen. I've made friends from all over the world. I also got the chance to try different functions such as operations, admissions, and finally teaching. It is great to be able to explore the world while also availing that opportunity for others.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

Two students met during the program and a few years later, they sent us their wedding picture. Imagine? Not only that, the bridesmaids were also students from that same year. That was the cutest story I've ever heard! It's like a fairytale but in fact, it's true. I met an Indian friend I made during the program 10 years after we graduated and that's the magic of Forum-Nexus.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

I would choose the main session so I could experience all the countries and cities and that's exactly what I did back then when I was a student. I would also choose to combine the study and the internship so I can get the best of both worlds. Imagine having an internship in several countries. How cool is that?

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Forum-Nexus is unique in several aspects. Firstly, the multi-country offering is unbeatable, especially in such a short time. Also, the diverse team is something you wouldn't find everywhere. I'm from Egypt. The founder is from Argentina. The Academic Director is American. The Operations Director is Mexican...imagine the diversity.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

The family-like safe space we create for students during that month of study abroad where they can really experience not just the world but also themselves is amazing. I loved it when I was a student. Also, the diversity Forum-Nexus brings to the table is something not many programs offer. And of course, going to many countries in a short period of time and yet still have some summer time to spend with the family.