AIFS Abroad in Salzburg, Austria: Semester

I did not like living outside of the city; I felt like that took away from a great experience. Also, being so isolated from the group. There were only a couple other students in my dorm, which sucked.

The AIFS Program in Salzburg, Austria made me become a more culturally aware individual. It produced a global outlook and has been exceedingly helpful in assisting with my future career goals. The staff gives you plenty of information before your departure and is a available for all of your needs while there. My classes were in the afternoon allowing for explorations in the morning and night. The pre-planned trips made traveling to other cities easy and enjoyable. Go abroad with AIFS!

I have nothing but wonderful things to say about this program. Salzburg is an incredible city and the program that AIFS provides for students there is of the utmost quality. I went abroad for the sole purpose of traveling - not studying - but after my experience, I am so happy I chose to study as well. The courses that AIFS provided enhanced my experience in the city and gave me more opportunities to see and do things I wouldn't have been able to otherwise. There are also more travel opportunities and excursions that AIFS organizes for you and that are included in the price. Additionally, AIFS provides such great support for you in your transition abroad. Salzburg isn't typically a city many students end up studying in, but it should be. While it may be a smaller city compared to many study abroad destination, there are still more than enough fun things to do and see. Austria is also in the heart of Europe, so there are many other travel opportunities only a short train ride or flight away. In the month that I spent there I got to visit London, Vienna, Munich, Nuremburg, and Venice. I loved every second of my time here and spent it with some of the most amazing people I've ever met. Easily one of the best experiences of my life.

I LOVED studying with AIFS in Salzburg. I chose to live in a homestay which was a really scary decision. I went through some culture shock at first, but the Resident Director Ingrid was so supportive and helped me adjust. In the end, I am so thankful I stayed with a host family, which I would recommend to everyone! My host family had me eat with them almost every day and even had me join family excursions like a ski trip and school programs. I grew to care about them like my own family, and two of my four host siblings will (hopefully - fingers crossed) be coming to visit me in the U.S. next summer! Even living with family, however, I had a lot of freedom. I had the same independence as the students living in the dorms, but also got to enjoy a good home-cooked meal and make lifelong friendships with native Austrians. Win-win!

Salzburg is kind of a random place to study abroad, but that made it so much more fun! There's some great nightlife, and all sorts of unique attractions like a historic fortress built in the 1200s, a Redbulls professional soccer team, or the Stiegl Brewery. The city is surrounded by these gorgeous mountains so there are lots of hiking opportunities, too. If you're into skiing, GO TO SALZBURG! Incredible slopes and the snow is honestly powder.

Because Austria is located pretty centrally,it's easy to travel throughout Europe. During my semester stay I was able to visit Zagreb (Croatia), Stockholm, Hamburg, Munich, Prague, and other cities in Austria as well as the 3-day layover in London at the beginning. I didn't go there,but Venice is only about 4 hours away by train.

Don't be worried too much about the language barrier. I'd encourage you to learn German because it's a very eye-opening experience that you'll grow from, but the Austrians speak very great English. You'll be fine!

I'm so happy I chose Salzburg over larger or better known cities because it was easier to settle in and the culture was so unique. The Christmas Markets are beautiful with all sorts of snacks, sweets and crafts for sale. The atmosphere is so charming that I'd go walk around the markets just because! You won't find the krampuslaufs anywhere else (google it. it's crazy). Also the food is incredible.

AIFS is really affordable. For example, they give you a food stipend and a rebate on a monthly bus pass which is really helpful for budgeting.

Overall, studying abroad was the best decision I ever made. I met some of my closest friends, gained a new perspective on issues and the world, became much more independent, experienced a new culture, learned a lot about myself, and most of all -- had FUN! I could write another 10,000 words about how much I loved it.

When I was planning to study abroad, Salzburg never crossed my mind. However, I was the best decision I could have ever made! I had a very good time in Salzburg with Andreas, the excursion associate, and my new and life long new friends. At first I was worried about falling behind with my academic, but once I created the contract with the school and advisor, I felt confident. Also, Ingrid, the resident director helped me throughout my application and traveling process. If you decide to go to Salzburg, Yu might hear my story in London. I was almost deported basically, but the staff worked with the officers and fixed my situation. I also lived with a family, The lindenthaler family (I think i spelled it wrong) and they were the coolest guest family I have ever encountered. Very helpful, the even taught me how to speak german and count every step of the stairs all the way to my room.
If you are thinking about this program, don't think anymore and go for it. You wont regret it. Don't be scared to ask questions and to explore the city.
Just GO!!

Salzburg is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is impossible not to fall in love with every inch of the small city. AIFS is a fantastic program with lots of perks. My living situation was absolutely perfect and the other students in the program were a blast. The excursions to Munich, Vienna, Innsbruck, and Prague were a great combination of fun and educational, and the cultural excursions in and around Salzburg were great because they were all at hard to access places, so I wouldn't have gotten to them by myself. I definitely recommend studying in Salzburg through AIFS.

The excursions were a great part of the experience with being able to hike Hohenwerfen, and to visit Munich, Vienna, and Innsbruck. The cultural excursions were a nice touch as well such as the sausage stand scavenger hunt, or the trip to the Christkindlmarkt. The housing accommodations in Salzburg are all great, especially the St. Sebastian Institute because it is situated within the city. I loved attending the University of Salzburg and enjoyed all of my classes. The course load is just enough that you can fulfill school requirements and still be able to enjoy your time in Salzburg. I would highly recommend this program especially because the AIFS Salzburg staff is amazing and supportive of their program members.

I had a great time during my study abroad experience in Salzburg. I shared an apartment with other participants and went to school with about 25 other US students -- some of those people I've now been friends with for over 12 years. A phenomenal program, a terrific educational experience, and a beautiful city.