I chose AIFS Abroad because of their strong reputation and the balance of academics, support, and cultural immersion they offered. I studied in Florence, Italy, and from the moment I applied, the staff were attentive and supportive, guiding me through every step before, during, and after my program. Housing was safe, comfortable, and centrally located, which made exploring the city easy. The included excursions and cultural activities, like trips to Venice and Tuscany, cooking classes, and walking tours, made the experience feel both educational and immersive.
What surprised me most was how quickly Florence felt like home. Within weeks I was confidently navigating the streets, discovering favorite cafés, and even practicing Italian with locals. AIFS created a strong community that made it easy to form lasting friendships with other students, and the on-site staff were always there to help. Personally, I gained confidence and independence, and professionally I grew in my cultural awareness and adaptability, skills that will stay with me long after the program.
What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The most surprising thing I experienced was how quickly Florence began to feel like home. I expected to feel like a visitor the whole time, but within weeks I was navigating the streets with ease, finding favorite cafés, and even chatting with locals. What surprised me most was the mix of everyday life with history.