IES is an amazing program for all students!

I heard about IES study abroad programs through the international studies center at my university. I had always dreamed and hoped I would be able to study abroad sometime during the duration of my undergraduate career, but senior year came along, and I was concerned that, as was the case with many other study abroad programs offered at my school, that I wouldn't be able to find a program that was organized to work with my credits and time frame. Unlike many other programs I was considering, I found IES to be the most flexible and accommodating, and I was able to completely fit the program into my academic plan. The classes offered through this London program were AMAZING, and there was such an array of categories that allowed me to take classes that would actually count, towards my degree, instead of simply taking classes abroad that would fulfill 'extra' or 'fluff' credits. I was able to pick classes I was not only interested in, but that counted, and was additionally able to pay for these credits as in-state, instead of having to pay for credits considered international or out-of-state. The professors for my classes were top-notch. One was a teacher at Oxford, and the other literally took us everywhere around the city to teach us in a more hands on way. The classes are at an accelerated rate, but you do not feel completely overwhelmed. You do have to put in the work, but it is so worth it because of the subject matter and cultural content you are able to come in contact with! The accommodations were fantastic, and I never once felt safe. Rather our dorm rooms, despite being small, were comfortable, and cleaned weekly. We shared completely finished (and furnished) kitchens and living areas, and the borough we were situated in was fabulous! It was so chic, and safe at the same time, and was located in such a way that getting across the city was only a matter of a 20 minute tube ride. But, again, with London, you can get ANYWHERE in a matter of minutes. It's such an amazing city! If I had to do it over, I would pick another IES abroad program to participate in! The IES team, both in the US and while you're in the UK is constantly available, 24-7. You are completely prepared for your excursion abroad before your trip, and you are completely taken care of while you're living abroad. There were optional weekend excursions every week, and during the week, the IES team always took the time to take us out to a different area or restaurant. We explored so many different aspects of London both on our own as tourists, but also with the native Londoners who took us around as friends. My time with IES Abroad London went by too quickly, and I am so glad I participated!