IES Abroad Reviews

I was very fortunate that I had the chance to be immersed in the Turkish culture and language for 5 months in one of the most spectacular cities in the world so that I could learn more about my Turkish heritage. I was also lucky enough to meet a wonderful group of students while abroad, which included Americans, International students as well as Turkish students of course. It was especially nice that our IES Abroad group was so tight-knit. I would return to Bogazici University in a heartbeat - it was a phenomenal experience. Rigorous academics, an exciting social scene and an absolutely breathtaking campus...

My semester in Chile was the best experience of my life. From the new people I met to the culture I was immersed in, I could not have asked for a better 4.5 months. I would highly recommend this program to anyone! What is special about this program is that it incorporates a semester overseas with a new language and a medical focus. This aspect was integral in my choosing of this program. Every week, we got to go to a different medical facility and observe doctors and learn how the Chilean health care system works. It really was an unique opportunity that I would not trade for anything!

When I arrived back in America after my study abroad experience, I was bombarded with the same question from friends and family: "How was it?" I struggled to come up with an adjective, even a few adjectives, to succinctly describe my experience in Europe. Turns out it's impossible to; I don't think I'll ever be able to put into words how amazing and challenging and transforming my semester in London was.

From the location to the academics to the living situation, everything about the IES program exceeded expectations. London is such a vibrant city, with so much to offer. It was too easy to fall in love with the unique combination of history and growth. The location of the program's residence halls was incredibly ideal considering it was within a five minute walk from the largest Tube station. I consider my academic experience abroad to be extremely beneficial to my education. England does school quite differently than traditional American schooling and it was a pleasure to be a part of such a dynamic interaction for a semester. IES provided engaging courses with equally engaging professors. I truly walked away with much more knowledge than I came with. Further than just an increase in knowledge, my semester in London allowed me to gain a vast appreciation for different cultures and experiences. For that I am beyond grateful.

Studying abroad on IES' Study London program was hands down the best decision I made in my college career. They prepared all of their students for life in London. The staff was genuine and accessible whenever you needed them. I think one of my biggest take aways from the experience is the fact that still talk to the friends that I made nearly every day. If you're studying abroad in London, I can't think of a better program to do it with.

One story that best expresses my time abroad is the time I was hiking in the mountains just outside of Barcelona. It was warm out - I'd spent the earlier part of the weekend lounging on the beach - and it was quiet, a totally different experience than that of the city.
I met a woman on the mountain who was meditating. We talked for a bit, first in my broken Spanish and then in English, and she told me about all the surrounding mountains, some of which I'd already climbed.
When I left her, I ran into a wild boar nosing around in the dirt. Even though it was huge, I felt peaceful and happy to see my first wild animal of the trip.
That memory stuck with me when I returned to the city, full of metros and crowds and restaurants of every kind. It was like I could have it all - nature and city life wrapped into one!

Istanbul is at the center of the world. There is so much history and culture in every neighborhood that intersects and there is always a new and exciting area to explore. The city never gets tiring, especially considering all of the delicious food and beautiful settings, including the Bosphorus and the beautiful Ottoman architecture. Outside of Istanbul there are so many great cities, such as Cappadocia and Ephesus, that have their own unique histories. I will never forget my experience abroad and I look forward to when I will be in Turkey again.

This past January I chose to take the amazing opportunity to study at IES Rome for the J-term. Prior to this experience, I had only been out of the country once before and that was to the United Kingdom where they spoke the English language and the culture was somewhat similar to that of my own. Needless to say, spending a month in Italy was exciting but definitely out of my comfort zone. As soon as we arrived in Rome and settled into our apartments, I knew that this would be the experience of a lifetime and although I was still somewhat apprehensive, I was way more excited and intrigued by the beautiful city that surrounded me. I will never forget the first time I walked through the IES doors and immediately felt welcomed by the staff. It was obvious that they wanted us to feel safe to immerse ourselves into the rich Italian culture. Our class, The Advent of Christianity, further explored the creation of the Christian faith by studying the historical and religious impact of Jesus Christ along with the Roman empire and their involvement. Studying the origin of Christianity and the ancient empire in one of the most beautiful and historical cities is an enlightening and precious opportunity. There are multiple field trips throughout the course that included but were not limited to the Vatican, the ruins of Pompeii, the Roman Forum, and numerous catacombs. These field trips truly allow you to imagine the city and culture in ancient times. These first hand experiences along with the staff, the incredible teachings of Gianni Ponti, and the beauty of Rome as well as other parts of Italy were truly priceless. I am confident that no matter where I go or how long until I return, IES Rome will always be my second home. So I implore all to take this opportunity. Travel to Rome. Study abroad at IES. Eat all of the Italian food and carbs as possible and remember that there is always room for gelato!

My semester in Rome was incredible, and IES Abroad played a huge role in making my journey so memorable!

I would recommend IES Rome: Language and Area Studies to anyone who is looking to participate in an internship or service opportunity abroad. It seems daunting, but IES makes it so easy to find an internship that fits you. Before even going abroad, I was contacted by an IES staff member who noted that I was interested in an internship. She wanted to learn more about my interests so she could find me a good placement. She also reviewed my resume with me. She put me in touch with a potential employer (who ended up being my future employer), who also contacted me before leaving the States. I worked in the archaeology study collection of the American Academy in Rome. I had a blast and I learned so much. I know my international work experience will be very important in my future career. Throughout the semester, IES staff contacted me to make sure I was enjoying my internship.

I also have to comment on the academics. Frankly, when going abroad, I did not have high expectations for my professors. Knowing that they only know students for one or two semesters, I expected a lack of passion. I was very, VERY wrong. IES Rome has incredible professors who are both extremely enthusiastic about their disciplines and are genuinely interested in the success of their students. I had some of my most favorite teachers and courses at IES out of my whole undergraduate career!

Of course, Rome itself is such a beautiful city. The way in which the past mingles with the present is simply not found anywhere else. I was stunned to discover that the IES center is so close to the Vatican and right across the bridge from the amazing Castel Sant’Angelo.

The study abroad experience, though only four months long, has changed me for a lifetime. I am more confident, independent and tolerant. I am more likely to see difference as beautiful. Study abroad has made me a brave and curious student.

One the greatest gains I think I received from studying at Nanzan was the lasting friendships of both local and fellow foreign students. The University's Center for Japanese Studies (CJS) hosts students from a wide variety of other countries, and there's no bond like the one forged from learning a common language, and the amazement that that language is a somewhat unexpected bridge. I would not only communicate to Japanese students in Japanese, but also to mainland European comrades who did not speak English very well. The multi-cultural exchange was as entertaining as it was illuminating, and I don't think I could have picked a better program for my needs. Apart from extensive improvement in my language skills, I gained greater insight into the daily life and culture of Japan, and the cultures of my fellow foreign students. I found it easier to interact with local residents the more my language skills improved, and my confidence improved greatly. I gained many friends from, not just Japan, but around the world, because of this experience, and I will never forget it.

Most people dread an 8AM class slot, but with a bike commute with views of the Black Forest and cobble stoned streets, I couldn't have been happier! Freiburg is awe inspiring as city and country meet! It's great to enjoy a day in the inner city where the beautiful Münster lies and Döner (a must try!) shops abound, but I am always grateful to return home to Vauban, an earthy, green part of the city. There are few places in the world offering such great cosmopolitan and student vibes directly alongside beautiful hikes and scenery.