AIFS Abroad

Program Reviews

Annie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Galloping In Galway

Interning in Galway was the best thing I ever chose to do! As a social work major I never thought I would have the opportunity to work abroad because social issues are different based on countries and regions. However, AIFS was able to guarantee a position for me in a Domestic Abuse Service through COPE Galway where I was able to use my knowledge from the U.S to help those in need in Ireland. There was not a social worker in the service, so I was able to bring a different perspective that worked really well in the environment. Even though our two countries have differences I was able to use those to my advantage and gain a wonderful experience working abroad that I can take with me in my future practice. If you are thinking about Interning but not sure that it will work with your major, don't worry! The staff is willing to work with you and find a program that fits you best, but if Galway is on your mind they have SO many options and I know you will find your fit.

Best of luck!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
I would say the most surprising thing I saw while in Ireland was when my group and I went to the Cliffs of Mor for the day. Before I had left, I would always see videos of puffins in Ireland around the coastline and I wanted to spot one so bad while I was there. Well, I did! It wasn't that close, but a puffin flew right in front of me and my friends while were looking over the edge and was amazing to see one out in the wild because they are so cute! If you ever get the chance, try and make your way to the Cliffs for some puffin sightings, you will not regret it.
Pros
  • Beautiful City
  • Cultural Festivals
  • Easy to navigate
Cons
  • Rocky transportation (make sure to leave early because the bus is almost never on time)
  • Galway is the rainiest city in Ireland (not bad just be prepared)
Jaden
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Experience of a Lifetime!

AIFS did such a great job with making it an experience to remember! I met wonderful people in my placement and gained valuable insight into my field all while being in an incredible location and getting to experience the French culture in Paris! Mira was super helpful with preparing me for my internship and I had a great time on the excursions set up throughout the program. We visited grand landscapes and tasted the cheese and wines of France. All in all, I would absolutely recommend doing an internship abroad with AIFS!

Natasha
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

10/10 BEST EXPERIENCE EVER!

I recently completed an internship abroad with AIFS at Time and Leisure Magazine in London, and it was the most exceptional experience! The accommodation was great, with spacious rooms, plenty of storage, and excellent amenities. I especially enjoyed my room, my roommates, and the well-maintained kitchen and bathrooms.

AIFS organized some enjoyable group events; including a memorable trip to Stonehenge and Bath, and a farewell event at a bowling alley with karaoke. The support from AIFS was so helpful, especially from Gregg, who was always kind and even helped me through a health scare while 4,000 miles away from home.

My internship at Time and Leisure Magazine was more than I could have ever asked for! I developed skills in research, CMS content management, news writing, project management, critical thinking, international relations, image editing, social media advertising, and graphic design. I wrote nearly 15 pieces, including articles and listicles, and will have a feature on fall fashion in the magazine!

Overall, this experience was life-changing, and I highly recommend taking the leap if you are interested! As someone who was wary and nervous up until arrival, TRUST ME it’s worth it! I would do it a million more times if I could.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
The best advice I got from an AIFS alumni prior to my internship was: be prepared for inconveniences to happen. You will be tested, but remember that growth will also feel like a breaking point. The internship abroad learning curve can be difficult to navigate, but keep positive and stay grateful because the experience flies by!
Pros
  • Work experience and resume booster
  • Outstanding support
  • International relationships and experiences
Cons
  • Iffy living conditions (missing door handles, a little mold in shower)
  • Security was not always available in the accommodation.
  • Your Oyster card, which is your public transportation card, is a large monthly expense that you can’t avoid.
Brianna
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best semester ever

I would 100% recommend this program to anyone. Being able to do any study abroad is a once in a life time opportunity. Being able to do this one specifically is even more special because of sooo many things it has to offer. Including having Hestea, the on-site director who accompanies you on most of the programs field trips/outings. She made my first study abroad experience so much more easier because she was ALWAYS there if you needed her. This program also has a lot of outings and a great selection of courses. I also have a travel Instagram with pictures and updates from my trip if anyone is interested its @traveling_bribod

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Well, a sheep's eye was the weirdest thing I ate, but the most unfamiliar was ostrich. It is now my favorite type of meat, so if you get the chance and like meat, please try it! I tried it when I was in the Garden Route at the first hostel. They served it as sausage and steak, and both were delicious!
Pros
  • The outings through this program
  • The people you meet from all around the world
  • The many many many memories you will make
Cons
  • Cape town isn't super safe so if you go there make sure you are with someone and be cautious
Emily
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Spring 2024

I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the AIFS Study + Intern Program during the Spring semester of 2024, and I can't say enough good things about it! This program was everything I hoped for and more, making my time in Rome unforgettable.

One of the highlights of my experience was my internship with UP Factory. The work was interesting and engaging, giving me hands-on experience in a dynamic field that aligned perfectly with my academic and career goals. The team at UP Factory was incredibly supportive, providing me with meaningful tasks and guidance that made my internship not only educational but also genuinely fun.

Rome itself was a dream. The city is rich with history, culture, and endless things to do. Traveling around Rome was surprisingly easy, whether I was navigating the metro, hopping on a bus, or simply walking through the beautiful streets. Every corner of the city had something new to explore, and the accessibility made it easy to fit in as much sightseeing as possible.

The AIFS staff were exceptional—friendly, approachable, and always eager to help. From pre-departure questions to on-the-ground support, they were there every step of the way. I felt well taken care of, which made adjusting to life in a new country so much smoother.

What made the experience even better was the amazing group of students I met. Everyone was so open, making it easy to form friendships that I know will last long after the program ends. We shared so many incredible moments together, from weekend trips to local hangouts, and those memories will stay with me forever.

If you're considering studying abroad, especially in Rome, I highly recommend the AIFS Study + Intern Program. It's an experience that blends education, work, and adventure perfectly, giving you the chance to grow both personally and professionally. It was truly a semester to remember!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Personally, I did LOTS of traveling, not only in Italy but outside of the country as well. I feel like because I am such a planner, I tended to plan every moment I could. Including trains, length of stay, and flights. Looking back, I would definetly reccomend not booking trains/flights WAY in advance. I had moments where I wished I had more time in another place, or times where there ended up being another mode of transportation that was better. Not only that, but lots of times there were delays or disruptions in my travel days, and many many trains were missed because I booked it so far in advance there wasn't any room for flexibility! All in all, traveling across Europe taught me that lots of times, things don't go exactly as planned. But it shows you how to live in the moment and take what is in front of you with a grain of salt! Travel as much as you can and as wide as you can! I promise you'll find a way to make it home!
Pros
  • Flexible/Stress Free Classes
  • Meal Cards
  • Great staff that prepares you very well!
Read my full story
Kiera
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The Best Experience I Could Have Asked For

Studying abroad in Budapest was such an incredible experience! The program size was perfect; we had 18 people which wasn't too small, but still small enough that you knew everyone in the program and we became a close knit community. It was so cool to get to meet students from all across the United States and Europe; AIFS has students at schools all over the US, and our accomodations are in an apartment building that is almost entirely student housing, which is a great way to meet people! Budapest itself was wonderful; it was such a hidden gem with lots to do, all while having great public transportation that is covered in the program fees. I loved getting to run by the Parliament at night, climb up Gellert Hill to see a panoramic view of the city, and explore different cafes all throughout Budapest. There were also so many opportunities to travel, including trips with AIFS to Vienna, Lake Balaton, and an optional excursion to Prague! The trips through AIFS were lots of fun, plus they were all planned for us so there was no stress over what we would do when we were in the cities.
While the adjustment to being abroad was a bit of a challenge, it was such an opportunity for growth and coming out this program my confidence has grown so much. I would recommend this program to anyone looking for a unique study abroad experience!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
While I was in Budapest, a group of 4 AIFS students plus myself trained and ran a half marathon. Going into study abroad, I wasn't a runner at all. In fact, I hated running. But one of my friends in the program had signed up for it and I thought "might as well, it could be a lot of fun." Not only was the experience of running the race along the Danube River past Parliament, Buda Castle, and so many other iconic city features absolutely incredible, but choosing to say yes to this opportunity was such a growing experience. I discovered a new hobby that I am looking forward to pursuing once I am back at my home university, and I was able to connect with some truly incredible people while exploring the streets of Budapest.
Isabella
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The best summer!

I interned in Florence for two months and it was the best job I could have been placed at! This internship was perfect for me and I felt that I really learned a lot while at work. On the weekends, you get the time to travel and explore. There are so many things to do in Italy from the food, to the excursions, you can never be bored! It is also so easy to take day trips from Florence which is so great to ensure you make the most of your time abroad. I would recommend this trip to someone interested in living in a new city and looking to be immersed in a new culture.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
I would tell future travelers to take advantage of your time abroad because it may be a once in a lifetime opportunity. Traveling and exploring is a must, that’s how you make some of the best memories! Definitely have an open mind and make the most of your time because it goes by so fast. Make an effort to learn at least the basics of the language, it will be so helpful and fulfilling.
Pros
  • Amazing food
  • Safe city
  • So many activities
Cons
  • Super hot in the summer months
  • Work place may be far from where you’re living
Ben
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing internship experience in Barcelona

This summer, I participated in AIFS 8-week summer intern program in Barcelona, Spain. As a communications, marketing, and business relationships intern for Siel Bleu, I gained incredible professional experience and improved my Spanish tremendously as a direct result of this. Outside of the work I was doing for my internship, I got to experience so much of Barcelona’s culture, including cuisine, historical landmarks, and other popular venues. When I wasn't in Barcelona, I was able to travel around many parts of Europe, and even Africa, for a relatively fair price.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The interior of the Sagrada Familia
Pros
  • Travel
  • Work and Living Experience
  • Opportunity for new relationships
Cons
  • Homesick at times
  • Language barrier
  • Cultural shock
Daniel
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great experience overall

The internship program I joined was organized, ensuring that I was placed in a position that aligned with my academic background and career. My internship onboarding was focused on my learning, where I learned about the company culture, my roles, and expectations. This initial guidance helped me quickly acclimate to the new work environment. Living abroad independently is a significant step towards personal development. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me invaluable life skills. From managing finances in a different currency to navigating public transportation in a foreign language, every day presented new challenges and learning opportunities.

Kiana
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Experience I Could’ve Asked For! NYC 2024

AIFS presents an incredible chance for students seeking internships and job experience in New York City. The program offers extensive support, and AIFS Samia does an outstanding job as both a host and event coordinator as she organizes many fun and amazing events, that allow you to connect with other students and even your employers. Adjusting to life in a bustling city like NYC was a significant change, but it led to immense personal growth, especially as someone who has never moved out before. My internship not only helped me develop as a young professional but also provided valuable experience in my field as it helped me figure out what I want in the future. It clarified my career aspirations and allowed me to build many meaningful connections. AIFS Abroad is truly a unique opportunity that paves the way for a successful future. Highly recommend if you get the chance to do this!

This experience also allowed me to make so many new friends and I am forever grateful for this opportunity.
I can’t stress enough how much I recommend the NYC internship experience.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
A piece of advice I would give to someone who is going to complete the NYC Internship is to prepare for a work environment you are not expecting. Everyone’s internship dealt with different work environments, some very strict, 9-5 with a lot of work and some very relaxed and laid back will less work given to the interns. Either way you will learn so much at your internship regardless of how it is. You just have to learn to manage the workload and speak up and communicate with your employers. After the first week or so though you get used to the flow of things and you fit in just fine!
Pros
  • You make many connections + a lot of networking opportunities
  • Make new friends
  • Guides your career path
Cons
  • Sometimes employers don’t give interns much work to do
  • Cost of living / expensive
  • 8 weeks - goes by fast / a bit short