From savoring focaccia in Florence to enjoying a pint in London, Santa Rosa Junior College’s (SRJC) study abroad program offers students a unique opportunity to combine education with global exploration through the American Institute of Foreign Study (AIFS). Participants can spend the spring semester in Florence, Italy, or alternate between Barcelona, Spain, and London, England, during the fall. Summer programs vary, with upcoming groups headed to destinations like Cusco, Peru.
While the prospect of included housing and travel packages might make it seem as simple as packing a bag, firsthand experience reveals important realities every prospective student should know before committing to a semester overseas.
Understand Your Living Arrangements
Knowing where you’ll live is crucial. While the city may be familiar by name, the neighborhood where you’ll stay can greatly impact your experience. Research your housing options thoroughly and clarify what is included. For example, the London program offered a local family homestay included in the $9,495 tuition or a dorm-style “apartment” for an extra $1,755. However, the so-called apartment provided by iQ, a student housing company owned by Blackstone, was actually a dorm shared with five others, lacking some expected amenities.
The dorm experience was challenging, with frequent hot water outages, black mold, broken lights, and pantry mice—none of which were disclosed beforehand. Additionally, students had to supply essentials like linens and cleaning products themselves. Meanwhile, Florence students can expect apartment-style living without homestays, according to SRJC materials and student accounts.
Who you live with matters too. In one extreme case, an older student caused significant disruption, highlighting the importance of careful screening for participants. Although this incident was rare, college dorm life inherently involves occasional drama and difficult personalities. Being prepared for cultural adjustment and interpersonal challenges is essential.
Balance Study and Exploration
Studying abroad is not just about sightseeing—it’s an educational opportunity. However, the allure of nightlife and weekend trips can make focusing on academics difficult. Make sure to plan your schedule so you can enjoy your new environment without neglecting your studies.
Though housing was promised near Central London classrooms, many students faced long commutes on the London Underground, which took up to an hour each way. Despite this, travel time often provided a break from academic pressures.
Prioritize Health and Safety
Familiarize yourself with local medical facilities and emergency contacts, even if you anticipate perfect health. AIFS partners with CISI, an international insurance provider offering comprehensive health coverage. Still, navigating the claims process can be complicated. Keep all medical receipts and documentation to ensure reimbursement if you need care abroad.
Adjust Expectations About People and Culture
First impressions can be misleading. The stresses of adapting to a foreign country often lead to heightened emotions and group dynamics reminiscent of high school cliques. Some classmates may behave disrespectfully in class or cause disruptions, challenging both students and instructors alike.
Patience and understanding are vital. Everyone is adjusting in their own way, so it’s important to give people multiple chances to acclimate.
Maximize Your Experience
The line between studying and traveling is delicate but worth balancing. Take advantage of extended weekends to explore nearby destinations, planning ahead so assignments don’t interfere with your adventures. Use travel apps like Skyscanner to find affordable flights across Europe. Budget airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet offer cheap, quick options, but be mindful of baggage restrictions.
Choosing travel companions carefully can enhance your experience, and the friendships forged abroad may last a lifetime.
Why Take the Leap?
Despite some challenges, studying abroad offers an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories. The experience of living in a new country, meeting diverse people, and stepping outside your comfort zone is transformative.
Though London brought its share of both delights and discomforts, it also revealed new facets of ourselves. Ultimately, a semester abroad is a wild, enriching journey—one that every student should consider embarking on at least once.
