Studying for a semester abroad with AIFS is truly one of the best things I've ever done with my time. It led me to some amazing (and often surprising) places, and I had several unforgettable experiences with a great group. Sevilla is a wonderful choice for any prospective travelers, and it is here where I really enjoyed elements like the food, people, music, language, history, architecture, and all-around culture. I also had many opportunities for learning important life skills, like navigating an unfamiliar place, becoming more independent and advocating for myself, cooking and eating well, learning a second language, and embracing discomfort. I've also made lifelong friends here and made countless memories that have enriched my life, all while studying in a great university where I could take classes that I am passionate about. If you are a student that is considering studying abroad, then look no further, especially if you are a foodie, history buff, or just an adventurous person. Sevilla is a unique destination with plenty of places to visit and things to do, and the people here are lovely. I would like to thank AIFS again for everything they have provided and helped me with, and to give special thanks to Edu, Sophie, and Marina. You were all excellent guides who helped make this kind of experience possible and were there to help me through some confusing and tough times. I would love to return here in the future and reunite sometime.

I studied abroad last spring with AIFS in Valencia, Spain. My friend encouraged me to go with her to Spain, and I absolutely loved it. The city, the food, the people, and my program director and assistant Janan and Ana made it an amazing experience. I was so lucky to have them lead our group. They helped so much with our apartment and planning group activities. I made lifelong friends through this program and future travel buddies. I was so afraid I would be missing out on the college experience being away from my friends in Pullman. But then I realized that I would have missed out on so much more if I had not gone. If you are on the fence about studying abroad, look into AIFS programs and you will be in good hands.

I chose AIFS Salamanca, Spain because they had courses that worked well with my major and the price point was super reasonable. I also really liked that the city wasn’t too touristy, so I had the chance to dive into the culture and language. The staff was amazing! They answered every question I had from start to finish. Someone even went to the consulate on my behalf to help get my visa, which was so helpful. My AIFS advisor abroad was super helpful with any problem I had. She was a great resource and really knowledgeable about all things Salamanca and study abroad. At the end of the program, the staff also helped me figure out what to expect when coming home and how my transcript would be handled.
I LOVED my housing situation. I did a homestay, which was the best way to connect with the culture linguistically, socially, and food-wise. I got to travel to nearby cities, Portugal, and Basque Country, and do fun activities like visiting the cathedral, taking a cooking class, and wine tasting. I made real connections in the community too. I made friends at a local coffee shop, volunteered at an English school, and even joined a choir (I'm a music ed major so that was huge for me). This experience helped me grow a lot. It really showed me how capable I am and how to adapt when things don’t go as planned. I’d recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone who wants to improve their language skills (no matter your level), experience something totally new, and build connections.

My name is Sebastian Aguilar, and I’m currently studying at Texas A&M International University. In the summer of 2024, I had the privilege of joining the Hispanic Studies Program at Universidad de Nebrija in Madrid, Spain, through AIFS Abroad. Looking back, I can confidently say that partnering with AIFS was one of the best decisions I made.

From the beginning, AIFS supported me every step of the way, providing comprehensive guidance, opening doors to networking, and fostering connections that will undoubtedly shape my future career. Lucas Zugasti, the Madrid Student Services Advisor, went above and beyond in ensuring everything went smoothly—from helping with apartment check-ins to organizing events that immersed us in Spanish culture. His advice and insights into student life in Madrid made adjusting to a new environment much easier. Additionally, Barbara Franconi, AIFS’s Director for Buenos Aires and Madrid, played a crucial role by encouraging me to apply for the AIFS Ambassador Program. Through this role, I’ve expanded my network, developed professionally, and created lasting connections within the AIFS community.

Academically, the International Management course taught by Professor Omar Espana Arrieta was a highlight. Professor Espana Arrieta’s approach, blending innovative teaching methods with real-world business insights, allowed us to lead projects and presentations that deepened our understanding of global business practices. For anyone interested in international business, I highly recommend this course. It not only sharpened my skills but also allowed me to connect with like-minded students, making the experience richer and more impactful.

This experience was invaluable in helping me pursue my long-standing dream of launching an international business in commerce and logistics. Growing up between the U.S. and Mexico, I was naturally drawn to global commerce, and Spain’s strategic position as a gateway to Europe, Latin America, and Africa provided insights into international business opportunities and challenges. My ambition to build a business rooted in global markets feels much more attainable now that I’ve seen the possibilities up close.

Studying abroad truly broadens horizons, and for students where opportunities to study internationally may seem distant, I encourage you to take a leap of faith. Yes, the process requires determination and resourcefulness, but AIFS offers support at every turn. Personally, I worked in a federal work-study position, participated in affiliate marketing, and even sold homemade treats to raise funds. It was challenging, but the investment was absolutely worth it.

For those who are ready to embark on this journey, my advice is to start, even if everything isn’t perfect. AIFS, along with resources at your home institution, can help you navigate any obstacles. The experience will equip you with the tools to become more than just a student; it will shape you as a global leader, ready to engage with the world’s complexities and opportunities.

I had the absolute best time in Granada with AIFS. I decided on a homestay and was paired with another female student. She and I became very close friends and our host family was so amazing and included us in everything they did. The classes were dependent on the level you tested into, which made it very flexible to adapt to each student's learning. The AIFS program trips were so fun and they gave us lots of free time to explore. Granada is absolutely beautiful with so many fun things to do with friends!

If you are currently an undergrad and are looking into traveling,I definitely recommend AIFS! AIFS had many options and locations I could choose from to travel to, but based on the experience I wanted, I chose to travel abroad during summer to Barcelona in Spain. I loved how well AIFS was partnered with my home institution and offered courses that applied to my degree plan. I got to connect with other students and interns from the program, which helped me build quality relationships. UAB was also a great campus to attend while abroad, my professors and other international students were great! The AIFS on-site staff was truly so sweet and helpful with any concerns I had about housing, the city, or anything personal. Everything in Barcelona was super simple to navigate and there was always something I could do on my free time like walk to the beach or meet up with friends. Overall 10/10 recommend AIFS and Barcelona, I loved it!

I loved loved loved my program. I am studying fashion psychology and my supervisor Edith was amazing. I learned so much! Our location supervisor Lourdes was so kind, caring, and amazing. I highly recommend this program for every student. I was worried about going and feeling comfortable but immediately when I got there I felt at home and safe. There are so many sites to visit in Madrid; museums, restaurants, flamenco shows. I loved every minute of my program. Make sure to visit lots of places. <3

I knew I wanted to study abroad since I was very young and choosing AIFS Valencia was the best decision I ever could have made. Pre-departure could use improvement as communication prior to arriving in Valencia was subpar, but once we landed, we were in good hands. Janan is the most amazing program director: personable, knowledgeable, helpful, caring, and hilarious. She was our Spanish mother for 4 months and ensured we were healthy, cared for, and having the greatest time possible. She prepped weekly activities every Friday that were packed with fascinating cultural activities and adventures across Valencia and more; we didn't want to miss any. Valencia has so much to offer as well; up until last week, I was finding new places I wanted to try. I lived in an apartment of 7, which sounds like a big yikes, but it turned out nearly perfect. Our apartment was centrally located and allowed us to walk / Valenbisi / metro / bus for anything we could ever need. I had a good experience taking courses through UCV as well, but I had a few friends who had issues with grades, transfer credits to home institutions, language barriers with professors, and poor response times from the institution. All in all, I would not trade my experience for anything.