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Eager to follow in the footsteps of a college student who studied and interned abroad in England? We recently caught up with AIFS Abroad participant Armani from Howard University who participated in a Study + Internship program abroad in the metropolitan city of London during spring semester.
Discover how Armani’s experience with AIFS Abroad helped her redefine her career path and shape her professional future!
Choosing to Study Abroad or Intern Abroad (or Both!)
Deciding whether to study or intern abroad can be a challenge for a lot of college students (our team can help with that!). For those like Armani who want to gain hands-on experience at an internship and take courses, AIFS Abroad offers unique Study + Internship programs. These programs allow you to simultaneously advance your academic career while helping you get a head start in your professional field.
Hear Armani, who ventured to London in the spring of 2024, share the impact of her Study + Internship program:
“When I studied abroad in London, England, I was fortunate to receive an enriching internship alongside unique course options that were not available at my local university. These opportunities were transformative, allowing me to excel academically and professionally upon returning to the United States. The distinctiveness of both the internship and the coursework provided me with invaluable insights and a competitive edge.”
Expanding Professional Horizons
While there’s nothing wrong with knowing exactly what career path you want to follow, many students discover unexpected career opportunities when they go abroad. In many cases, a study abroad and/or intern abroad program will open you up to alternative career paths that you weren’t previously aware of. For example, Armani initially believed that a successful criminology career could only be found within government institutions, but her internship revealed that there are other options available:
“The internship I participated in was with a nonprofit organization [based in] Uganda. This foundation is dedicated to combating the discrimination faced by women who become pregnant while pursuing their education… My role in this internship was to create alternatives for these women to find adequate resources so they could further their education. This internship was an eye-opener for me, as it exposed me to a variety of law-related career fields that I had not previously considered. Before this experience, I believed that working for the government was the only path to a successful career in my field. However, with the support and resources provided by AIFS, I discovered that there are countless ways to make a meaningful impact. I am now inspired to pursue a career as an activist, dedicating my efforts to helping troubled youth and advocating for systemic change.”
Academics Abroad
If you choose to study abroad with AIFS Abroad, there are a number of international destinations you can select as your host city, all of which offer amazing programs and courses that will help you earn credit toward your degree. Also, if you’re like Armani, you may discover that your study abroad destination offers unique classes that aren’t available at your home university:
“In addition to the internship, studying abroad gave me access to a range of courses that were otherwise difficult to secure at my home university. One of the most impactful courses I took was Theories of Personality. This class delved deeply into the works of renowned psychological theorists, exploring how their ideas influence individual outcomes and personality development. I was able to integrate this knowledge with my criminology studies, which deepened my understanding of human behavior and the factors that drive it. This intellectual synergy sparked a passion for learning about psychological and sociological theories, which continues to influence my academic and professional journey.”
Studying abroad opens the door to fresh perspectives and exciting new courses that can expand your understanding of key topics, just like Armani’s experience did!
Final Thoughts
AIFS Abroad Study + Internship participants consistently report positive, impactful experiences that help them grow both academically and professionally, all while gaining exposure to new cultures and experiences that also foster personal growth. As she reflected on her experience in London, Armani shared some similar sentiments regarding her time abroad:
“Overall, studying abroad with AIFS was a life-changing experience. It provided me with unique opportunities and broadened my perspective in ways I could never have imagined. Traveling and immersing myself in a new culture not only enhanced my academic understanding but also reshaped my worldview. I am incredibly grateful for the chance to study abroad, as it has profoundly influenced my aspirations and solidified my commitment to making a difference in the world. For anyone considering studying abroad, I can confidently say that it is a decision you will never regret. It is an investment in your future, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation.”
Are you a student who’s ready to take the leap and study abroad like Armani did in London? We’d love to help you start your journey!
Here at AIFS Abroad, we know a thing or two about helping college students and pre-professionals study and intern abroad. Our programs are incredibly inclusive, which takes a lot of the stress out of planning. From coordinating your housing to providing things like cultural and social activities, excursions, comprehensive insurance, 24/7 emergency support, on-site staff, and more, you’ll take comfort in knowing you’ll have support throughout your entire experience abroad.