I chose AIFS because it was the perfect combination of location, academics, affordability, and experiences! AIFS is a partner with my university so I was able to transfer credits back to fulfill my degree requirements. I went abroad to Rome, Italy for the winter J-term and I was able to accomplish so much during such a short amount of time. I chose the travel package through AIFS so I had transportation to and from the Rome airport and had staff with me until I got to the program meet up location. My Rome support staff were awesome and all had very unique backgrounds. They even taught a wine tasting class in house! There were a bunch of excursions offered through the program like an opera visit, tours of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, a cooking class, and trips to Florence and Assisi. My class focused on Italian Culture and we had regular field trips to places like an olive oil tasting class, grocery markets, and the fashion district near the Spanish Steps. While I did go in with friends from my university, I became friends with other people from other schools and with people from my home university that I didn't know prior to going abroad. I gained a lot of experience learning how to shop for myself in a different country, navigating a language barrier, and learning how to manage fun and academics. I actually switched the focus of my second major because I loved the concept of Slow Food that I learned while abroad. I really would recommend AIFS for anyone that wants to learn authentically and experience things firsthand, rather than sitting in a classroom all day.

I studied in Florence, Italy during Fall 2024. I chose AIFS Abroad for a number of reasons. Having face to face interactions with AIFS staff during the application process made the steps to getting abroad much more manageable. Having the opportunity to take courses that not only worked toward my graduation goals, but also sparked interest in new areas was a huge asset to my time abroad. Through my courses, and connections at AIFS, I was able to build lifelong connections, friendships, and met with professionals who are continuing to help me achieve my goals.

Beyond the academics, the accommodations and opportunities presented through AIFS positively contributed to my time abroad. Living around the corner from the Duomo, and crossing the Ponte Vecchio everyday to get to class was a unique cultural experience. AIFS provided field trips to better immerse students in Florentine culture, and excursions outside of Florence to see beyond common tourist attractions. As a student through AIFS, we had a meal plan to use at local restaurants, access to cooking classes, museum tours, and many other opportunities at our finger tips to embrace our time abroad.

Moving across the world can be daunting; however, the friendships and connections I built through AIFS are ones I will cherish for the rest of my life. Those who share abroad experiences together with have a unique type of bond. I had the opportunity to live with five other girls who were also studying through AIFS. I never could have imagined the experience we had together. But, now I cannot imagine living a life without them by my side. I truly feel indebted to AIFS for introducing me to my lifelong best friends.

The AIFS community is one-of-a-kind and one that I knew undoubtedly would support me through my time abroad, and continues to show up for me even a year after!

Thinking back to who I was a year ago when I was leaving the US to go abroad, compared to who I am now, is inspiring. I had no clue how much I would grow as an individual. I became more confident, outspoken, independent, and driven than I could have ever imagined. The experiences I had abroad shaped me into the person I am today.

I recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking for a unique abroad experience. Fueled by individuals who are eager to see you succeed, and will be there to support you every step of the way.

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.

I chose their 7 week summer program and had a fantastic time. The staff is wonderful, extremely helpful, and accommodating. The program includes meal vouchers which was a great way to explore restaurants around the city and try new things. My classes fit well into my degree plan. I feel like this trip has given me more insight into what I'd like to pursue with my degree than my home university! The three week class was fast paced, understandably so, but I still gained a lot from it. Be prepared to study when you can, get started on your essays early, and try to rest! Classes start the Monday after you arrive.

My apartment building was filled with other AIFS students, so by the end of our stay we all knew each other well. Each apartment had its own charm, utilities were included, we even had air conditioning! It seemed like some roommates weren't well matched, either by the lack of other students or trying to group interns with interns. However, it worked out in the end. Honestly, part of the experience is learning to handle hard situations and deal with different people.

The excursions were fun and completely worth the time and money going on. The trips to Venice and Rome were extremely worth it for the price paid. They handle all the transportation, accommodations, and tickets to sightseeing places. Breakfast is included but lunch and dinner were not. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and what you learn is more than what a normal guide would give. The trips you can sign up for on the side were almost always £20 and also worth going on.

Overall, it was an amazing experience! Florence is beautiful and the program was great. I'd love to do it again in a heartbeat. If you're like me, don't let the price intimidate you! It's well worth the cost and what you gain in experience.

The AIFS Rome program was an incredible experience. The staff were all very friendly, helpful, and easy to reach out to. The program's meal plan was amazing and allowed for students to visit several great restaurants. The many day trips and weekend excursions were unique to the program and were some of my favorite parts of the semester. I felt like I explored not only Rome but several parts of Italy through the program's many opportunities it offered. Some of my favorite activities offered by AIFS throughout the semester included a Roma football match, cooking classes, wine classes, guided walking tours, opera night, and museum visits. The activities made it easy to meet friends within the program and familiarize myself with the city and culture of Italy. I only wish the program was longer than 13 weeks, but with all the included activities and excursions, it was very worth its price. The academics were for the most part amazing. One of my professors is one of my favorites I've ever had and class was never boring or unmanageable. Many class sessions included field trips. As an Art History student, I thought that the program's classes for my major were incredible. The semester was so much fun. Between AIFS's classes and all of their activities, I can't think of a single day where I felt like I'd wasted my time. I would highly recommend this program!

Studying abroad had always been a dream of mine and I feel incredibly blessed to have done so at the AIFS Global Education Center in Rome. The staff and professors are incredible and were invaluable resources for both myself and my classmates throughout the duration of the program. I would recommend this program to anyone else looking to study abroad in Rome and look back on this programs as one of the best periods of my life. The application and pre-departure processes were very informative and helpful as well

I would definitely recommend this program if you are a history major or just love history altogether. You get to see so many ancient Roman ruins and artifacts as well as Renaissance art. So, there’s something for everyone. I also like how engaged and supportive the staff are in process from applying to actually participating in the program. Would definitely recommend if you want study abroad for a whole semester but are not comfortable on your own or have never travelled internationally alone. Totally recommend.

I studied abroad in the spring of 2023 and it was the best three months of my life! I absolutely loved my apartment and the location of it. I felt right at home whether I was at school, going to different restaurants that the program gave us meal slips for, at my apartment, or just roaming the streets. I met so many other students in my program that I am now best friends with. The classes that AIFS offered were so unique and allowed me to get a better understanding of what Rome and its history is all about. My architecture class was my favorite as we got to go on several field trips to different cities and areas around Italy, the food class was also very food as we got to go taste testing different gelatos and foods around Rome! My favorite part of the semester was the trips that Marco, Rosanna and Chicca took us on. It was great spending time in different cities in Italy with my classmates and friends. I truly felt at home as they welcomed us with open arms and were there for us if we ever needed any help or guidance along the way.