IFSA: University College London Partnership

My experience in this program was incredible. IFSA staff was so supportive and was always available to help me with any problems I had. My housing situation was perfect and I loved where I lived. The IFSA trips they offer are incredible, too- I got to visit the Lake District and meet other IFSA students who have become my best friends. Academically, I grew the most in my semester abroad than I ever had and have decided to return to UCL to pursue my masters. I cannot recommend this program enough!

From the beginning of the study abroad process, IFSA was very helpful by offering clear, specific information on their programs. This support was extended along every step of the program, especially when we arrived in London, which I really appreciated. There were so many opportunities to connect with the staff and students alike on the program, and one of my favorite events was the trip to The Shard at the end of the semester.

Just as much as I enjoyed my experience with the IFSA staff and the support I received, I also really appreciated my time at UCL. Though very different from my home university, I came to really enjoy UCL and its large campus. It was really beneficial for me to get to know the different students of various backgrounds, hear different perspectives, and broaden my world view, and this really helped transform me into a global citizen.

Overall, my time spent studying abroad in London at UCL through IFSA's program is something I will cherish forever and look back on fondly. I was able to immerse myself in a foreign culture, explore new places I once only dreamed about visiting, and learn so many new things, both about the world and myself. I strongly believe that studying abroad has allowed me to grow into a more independent, well-versed, flexible, and open-minded student and person. I find that I am now more comfortable in new situations and places, I am able to adapt more easily to new settings, and I have an expanded world-view based on being in a foreign, highly diverse setting.

I highly recommend taking the opportunity to study abroad in London, and especially through one of IFSA's programs. They will provide you with the support you need, help foster a sense of community, and help you really explore what the city, and country, have to offer through various planned trips and activities! All of these things will allow you to make the most out of your time abroad and really immerse yourself in that setting.

I would say IFSA was a unique program because it gave students the freedom to explore and be apart of the city and country however we wanted while also provided a backbone to fall back on if needed. There events in and around London and the weekend trip to Lake District national park showed a commitment to teaching while also recognizing that were all college students who just want to hang out.

I was also really happy with their support system. When professors went on strike that semester, IFSA providing tutoring and other support systems for anyone who needed it. Though I did not take advantage, I appreciated how much they cared for the students in a rough situation.

Overall I really enjoyed my experience. I really enjoyed the classes I took at UCL, and being on the IFSA program led me to meeting new people not just from London but from around the US as well, many of whom I now consider to be good friends. Also, this goes without saying, but London is an incredible city, and I wouldn't have wanted my abroad experience in any other place.

I got better at research paper writing. I was taught how to use quantitative and qualitative research methods. This is a great experience to have. Also, I got to interact with people from many cultures, which was amazing. Academically I learned a lot; however, I had plenty of spare time to travel around Europe, explore London, and go out with friends. UCL is one of the best universities in the world, and the people that you meet there are absolutely amazing. London is one of the most fun cities I have ever been to. IFSA makes the whole experience absolutely amazing by complementing your trip with a lot of fun activities that allow you to meet people. Moreover, you always feel that someone is taking care of you. IFSA + UCL = perfection

Great location to study abroad, school is rigorous and can be a bit overwhelming. IFSA was a great program to go through and they put on amazing activities throughout the semester abroad. The best trip is to the Lake District. One of my favorite trips throughout my entire time abroad. Highly, highly recommend the program. IFSA is an awesome program to use for any location in which you wish to study!

I studied at the University College London (UCL) for one semester. The semester was arguably one of the best times of my life. I learned a lot about other cultures, my culture, a different education system and the world at large. I was privileged to travel to about 7 countries throughout my time abroad and each experience was unique and enriching.
UCL is an academically rigorous school just like my homeschool Rice but it was interesting to see how the different the rigor was because of the different systems.
I would recommend studying abroad 100% to anyone.

IFSA Butler was supportive and welcoming throughout my abroad experience. I really appreciated having people at IFSA to call when I had questions or concerns during my application process. Once abroad, the London staff fulfilled many roles for me. They acted as my academic advisors-- alleviating my concerns about exams and assessments, answering questions about reading lists and content, and checking in on my progress throughout the semester. They were event organizers, planning weekend trips to different parts of England. They functioned as a family away from home, too -- hosting holiday parties and meeting for tea on campus. They knew my name, my courses, my travel plans. IFSA was more than just a study abroad program because in addition to coordinating my study abroad logistically, they also supported me personally.

I can't recommend IFSA Butler more highly. Really amazing staff, service, programs, and support throughout the process. I'm sure other programs offer similar services, but I don't think they could possibly offer such wonderful, caring people. You're resident advisors will become your friends, and you'll be sad they can't go out with you. Lynne and Andrew are bomb. I wish I could do it again. Make sure you go on the adventure weekend in Wales, one of the most fun times I've ever had.