IES Abroad Reviews

I did IES' Language Intensive program in Beijing in 2010 and had an incredible experience. The quality of the language classes cannot be beat. In addition to my classes, I had an internship while in Beijing. I have maintained great relationships with my friends, teachers, and internship supervisor since returning to the US. I highly recommend this program!!

This IES Abroad program has a supportive and wonderful staff. I was having a hard year because my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer right before I went to London, and the staff, students, and professors all supported me through that difficult experience. My classes were fun and challenging, and as a drama/english double major, this program afforded me opportunities to work on both my majors. We took trips to the theatre every week, and travelled all over Europe with IES, which was an opportunity which I really valued. I HIGHLY recommend this program to anyone who is interested in falling in love with London.

The London IES Study Abroad experience was one of the most life changing times of my life. I learned so much about different people and different ways to live. During the week I was either attending classes (most of them about British culture and history) or at my internship where I got firsthand knowledge of the media overseas. These two aspects created a lifestyle that allowed me to really feel like I belonged in London. The residence hall, school, and my internship were all in different areas, and I therefore got to explore and get to know the city. There were also multiple trips provided through IES, which allowed me to get a unique trip to other countries, along with the trips I planned out on my own. The staff at IES became like a family to our entire tight knit group. I was able to create a life in London that I had no idea existed with the help of all those people, who advised different cultural opportunities. I would recommend the program to anyone, it changed my life!

After two trips abroad during high school, I knew I wanted to study abroad during college. I initially only considered traveling to Germany, because of my interest in their culture and language. On a whim I looked into Vienna, Austria. I knew absolutely nothing about the city of Vienna, except for the fact that a friend from high school was also considering studying there for a semester. I researched the courses offered and realized the program in Vienna had far more options that were viable for my major. I applied and was accepted. I was excited about my upcoming semester but not thrilled. I left the country with absolutely no expectations and did not really know what to expect in the slightest. My four months abroad turned into the most incredible and rewarding months of my life.

By entering the program with no prior knowledge of the customs, history or the like, I embraced learning as much as possible about everything. Austrian history, customs, the people, the architecture, the culture, and of course the language. I could not get enough of it. Everyday was a new opportunity to meet new people, see new things and practice my German. Our program motto was "squeeze the juice" meaning make the most of everything. I definitely took this mantra to heart and experienced so many things. Before my semester abroad, I always played it safe. I was not a risk taker. I didn't really like to step out of my comfort zone often. Being abroad changed that. Sometimes I didn't have any choice. Almost everyday I had to face my fears and speak German. Even though I've studied the language for years, actually speaking with Austrians was incredibly daunting, especially for me and my lack of self-confidence. Yet each day I persisted and continued to practice.

Through two other classes taught in German, my vocabulary and confidence grew. The classes themselves were neither easy nor extremely difficult, however the fact that three of mine were in a different language did make it more challenging. I love reflecting that I actually was able to take, understand (mostly) and participate in those classes taught in German. Since the group of us that took classes in German was rather small, we all quickly became friends. That group of people plus my four roommates was my family. Since I go to school across the country, it didn't bother me being away from my actual family. Yet being abroad was different. I think we all felt that way and became our own family unit. We supported one another and developed bonds much deeper than common friendship. We traveled to foreign countries together, tried new foods, attempted to navigate new places and faced our fears all together. One of the greatest things about Europe is how easy it is to travel. It was surreal to simply board a bus and take a day trip to Slovakia. Or travel by the night train from Krakow to Prague during a mid semester break. Europe is vastly different from the US and the time I spent there was unforgettable.

The Institute for International Education of Students (IES) was a pivotal aspect of my experience abroad. Their dedication to the students enabled us to fully embrace our new home while abroad. Everything about the program is so well thought out and it is absolutely evident how much they care for each and every student. From orientation in the Austrian Alps to intensive German class, everything served a vital purpose. After over a semester without taking German, and learning Italian in between, I for one greatly appreciated the three weeks of intensive German at the beginning of the program. It was an excellent way to refresh those of us who had already taken the language and served as a crash course for those who were just beginners. Through the many extracurricular activities planned by IES and the student forum, we also had the opportunity to really explore Vienna. A scavenger hunt throughout the city really tested our knowledge of the city and gave us a chance to demonstrate how much we had already learned. Even the courses are designed to teach you about Vienna and Austria. I would never have learned as much as I did if I had not enrolled in classes such as Österreich in Text und Film (Austria in Text and Film), Kulturgeschichte Österreichs (Cultural Heritage of Austria), or Comparative Eastern European Literature. My internship at a local elementary school further enriched my learnings of Viennese culture, because it allowed me to work directly with students and teachers. The differences between the American and Austrian education systems are striking. Not only did I gain valuable experience in a classroom, but also I was able to observe the educational hemisphere of another country. Lastly, the opportunity to take courses in German was one of my primary motivations to study abroad. I elected to take two additional classes in German, besides the required German language course. I loved waking up everyday and attending class taught in another language. The professors at IES are very patient and completely understand the fact that German is not our first language. Yet they still managed to challenge us. I do believe my abilities improved greatly while there. And one of the best parts was that I loved attending the classes, especially those taught in German.

The teachers, student assistants and program leaders were exceptional. Class sizes were small, especially those that I took taught in German. That enabled the teachers to develop a deeper one on one relationship with us, the students. For example, before a German test, my teacher noticed I was having trouble with the material. I sought extra help and she continued to work with me until I understood it. Even right before the test, she made sure I understood it all and was constantly willing to help. The teachers always made themselves available, whether in person or via email. The student assistants were also an important part of the program. Not only did they run the information desk on the ground floor of our school, but they were our go-to people when we had questions. Whether you needed school supplies, or the location of an inexpensive hairdresser, they had the answer. And if they didn't know right away, they would find out and get back to you. They were an additional aid for everyone to become acclimated with Vienna. The IES program administrators were fantastic. I never felt like I was making important decision on my own. They guided us through registration and class selection. They were a constant presence at school and IES events, and the program would not be nearly as successful without them.

Clearly, if you have read my review, you can see I literally can go on and on about my experience. Don't just take my word for it, but go out there and make your own memories! And where else could be a better place than Vienna?!

I studied abroad in Amsterdam in Fall 2011, specifically in the IES Abroad Pre-Law Certification Program. I took three classes (Argumentation Theory, Public International Law and the core Seminar on Law and Legal Practice). Some of my classmates found the courses to be really easy but if you had no exposure to law previously, you will find the program to be as rewarding and challenging as I did. I loved all of my Professors, everyone spoke English proficiently and I was able to travel around Europe with ease using time management wisely. Amsterdam is a wonderful city and with close proximity to both the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice in The Hague, this program is IDEAL for any student looking for a preview into an law school curriculum while traveling abroad!

Last fall semester (2011) abroad in Buenos Aires with IES was an experience I will never forget.

From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was in the hands of friendly, capable, and helpful IES staff (most of whom were Porteños). The orientation period was honestly one of the highlights of the trip; it gave us the opportunity to really immerse ourselves in the Argentine culture right away by providing tours around the city, day trips to estancias, and quality time to bond with our new teachers and the orientation staff. It also allowed us to really get to know our new peers and classmates.

The home stay that IES provided me could not have been better. I was placed in a family of eight, including a dog, and was welcomed home everyday with heartwarming ladrido! My Spanish (Castellano) got infinitely better just by living with my family, and it helped that their patience was also infinite.

The city of Buenos Aires itself was simply spectacular. A huge metropolitan area constantly animated by the energy of millions of people. Walking around the streets was in itself an enjoyment as I was subsequently sucked into the fast-paced hustle and bustle of an inner city. There was so much to see and and so much to do, I only wish I could have spent a year (or 2, or 3) exploring all the different barrios!

The nightlife could not have been better. The city is covered with fun social venues of all kinds, whether they be casual restaurants and bars, or party-hardy, early morning clubs, Buenos Aires has them all. Having the opportunity to meet locals and enjoy nights out with them in their element was beyond fantastic (and it helps that Argentines aren't too painful to look at as well).

Classes were informative and challenging, but not overwhelming. My language class at IES was a blast, and I quickly was introduced to the lunfardo of everyday speech. If you're interested in Marketing at all, take Professor Martin Tessi's Marketing in Latin America course--a lot of fun and a couple of field trips involved.

I couldn't recommend IES Abroad in Buenos Aires enough!

Go BsAs!

Get ready for a hard and extremely rewarding semester - you are going to embark on what will undoubtedly be the best 3 months of your life so far. Enjoy every minute - don't sleep in too much, do everything you can, travel often, and immerse yourself in everything Irish. The best candidates for this program are aspiring actors or creative types, and all those who have a penchant for acting/theatre. The teaching methods at an acting school in Ireland are a bit different than in the US, so it took some getting used to. The workload was hard - long days, lots of take-home assignments, but lots of payoff, too. This was the best semester of my life, and I wouldn't change the late nights or the hard work for the world. Just know that you will be taking a varied amount of classes, and each class will require quite a bit of work. Not for slackers! The IES portion of the term was also brilliant - great teacher, interesting topics, and lots of theatre visits - what's there not to love? The entire IES staff are a bunch of ROCK STARS. They are on top of everything, there when you need them 24-7, fixing issues the second they are brought up, and always approachable and wanting to help make your experience the best eve

IES Rome was great. Primarily, the IES center is located directly acorss from Castel Sant'Angelo, and IES students are housed in apartments all over the city. IES students can choose to be housed in either homestays or apartments, and I chose to live in an apartment. I ended up sharing a bedroom with a local Italian student, and she became a great friend and resource while living in Rome.

I come from an Italian-American family but had very little experience studying the language in a formal setting, and my language skills improved dramatically while abroad. IES is great in that it is possible to take classes entirely taught in Italian that are designed for non-Italian natives, which I found challenging and fun. IES really takes advantage of its key location in Rome, and every class goes on various field studies throughout the semester. In my classes, I went to important museums, government buildings, and various theatrical productions throughout the city that I otherwise would not have been able to see.

I also interned while in Rome, and it was wonderful. I only spoke Italian in the office, and my work translating only improved my Italian more. I am definitely accustomed to a full schedule at my university in America, and interning kept me busy and immersed in Italian culture, while giving me international work experience to add to my resume.

Overall, I would definitely recommend IES Rome. The center staff are wonderful and extremely helpful, and overall the professors were excellent. Rome is a chaotic city and can be extremely overwhelming, but IES's smaller community makes the experience that much more manageable.

On the way to class every morning I would look to my right and see the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains. Directly in front of me, the stunning Alhambra. And all around me are people enjoying the morning. The IES center building has a terrace from which students enjoy the view of the Alhambra above and Plaza Nueva below. During the day I attended a Spanish grammar class as well as other content courses (in sociology, economics, and political science). A majority of the classes offered at the center were also in Spanish which was a great way to practice the language in an academic setting; wonderfully complemented by the practice with my Spanish mother. Most students would walk back home for lunch to eat with our families and enjoy siesta. The afternoons and nights were filled with walks around the parks and other parts of the city. We would discover a tapas bar, order some drinks, and enjoy the free tapas that come along with it (as mandated by law in Granada).

Advice:
-Take advantage of the opportunities that are provided through this program.
-Talk with the students that you meet in intercambios (language exchanges with University of Granada students).
-Invest in getting to know your host family.
-Go on the guided trips that IES plans. You will see some of the most beautiful places in Andalusia and Morocco AND know what the buildings are too!
-To most improve your language skills while studying abroad, speak it with everyone, not just the people who you know don't speak English. Practicing with other students in the program also helps because you can correct conjugations and refresh vocabulary in a setting where everyone is learning and presumably wanting to improve. I practiced a lot in everyday life with my host mom, which was set up through the program. The program also set up intercambios (language exchanges) with local people who are learning English. During these exchanges you would talk with your partner in English for about an hour and in Spanish for about an hour to improve together. There were also lots of opportunities to practice in content classes that were conducted in Spanish. One of the nice things about Granada is that in most places you could use Spanish and people would respond in Spanish although it is obvious that you're not from Granada. However, it is common for shop keepers to know English in the touristy parts of the city if absolutely necessary. The students tended to speak English between themselves because we are all American students and it was more comfortable. However, when we were out around the city I spoke Spanish with several of my friends and that helped us improve our own skills and showed that we were interested in really being in the culture and interacting with the people too.
-Step into the new culture with an open mind about it. Don't expect simple things like eating times or showers to be the same as they are back at home. It didn't take very long for me to feel acclimated. There were always new things that I noticed as different, but that doesn't mean that they are bad things. It's important to recognize before you leave that you're walking into a new culture. Things will not be the same as they were at home, but it's incredibly worth it to step a little bit out of your comfort zone and appreciate this new culture for what it is. I liked being abroad for a semester and, retrospectively, I think that was the right amount of time for me.

Challenges:
At first it was hard to motivate myself to get out of the house after siesta because being able to nap just felt so nice, but then I realized that there was so much to see and do. It was also wonderful to make friends outside of the program. It provided opportunities that I wouldn't have had otherwise and even more wonderful friendships!

Final Thoughts:
I absolutely loved Granada! It had a central location (halfway between the Sierra Nevada mountain range and the beautiful beaches in Costa del Sol). It was small enough to walk around in, but large enough to have things to do. It has several outlying parts of the city that are more rural and further into the mountains and so beautiful. I enjoy being outside a lot and really enjoyed the amount of parks throughout the city and places where I could see the mountains instead of being surrounded constantly by buildings. Also, make sure that there is a range of classes that you are interested in and can take for relevant credit at your university (if that is something you are looking for) before you get to the program. You want to allow yourself room to move once the schedule is released so you're not regretting your decisions because class times conflict. Not only do the classes and trips matter, but also the city in which you will be living. Pick some place you think you will enjoy and maybe a place that is different than where you live currently to expand your life experiences more.

My experience in Granada gave me a greater understanding of myself and of the world.

Studying abroad in Rome was an experience I will never forget. The people I met in Rome will always have a place in my heart. Living in Italy has made me realize that material things aren't as important as they seem. I think I learned to appreciate the more simple things in life. Italians thrive when it comes to relationships and much of their time is dedicated in the up keeping of these bonds. I remember spending with my roommates hours talking and enjoying each others company during breakfast, lunches and dinners. Before the program started I thought that I would find the lack of personal space in Italian culture a problem, but after six weeks I think I am fairly comfortable with this whole approach. I found learning about Italian culture a highly satisfying experience and I hope to study abroad more in the future in other countries as well.

It was hands down one of the best experiences I could have ever asked for. I would go back in a heartbeat if I could just to remember the amazing time I had.