University of Otago Partnership

“I think about my time abroad ALL THE TIME, and believe it or not, it comes up in almost all of my conversations. It truly was the best experience of my life!”

“The IFSA advisors were extremely communicative and made an effort to learn about my interests and career goals. I couldn’t be happier with my internship placement in Prague!”

“I asked the study abroad office at my college which provider they recommended. My college mentioned that IFSA has done a wonderful job in the past with in-person internships and said they would be best.”

“I chose IFSA because they stressed not only the scholarly element of studying abroad but the benefits of cultural exposure.“

“I chose IFSA because they had an independent study component implemented in the program. My Cultural Anthropology professor also recommended me the IFSA ISLE program because I could study primates there.“

“I chose IFSA because I was impressed with how well it was organized, how accessible the staff was, and how immersive the program was. I also really liked that IFSA organized excursions, making it easier to see Costa Rica’s highlights and hidden treasures.“

“I now have a new sense of independence that has certainly stuck with me, and it will continue throughout my life. I can finally cook for myself!“

“IFSA Peru offered cool classes relating to my majors as well as a host family. I really appreciated having the ability to live in a city (it was a first for me) with a host family and learn how to navigate the wild transportation to the uni and other places in Lima.“

“I chose to study abroad in Lima, Peru with IFSA because of its community-based research and volunteer opportunities. I thought it would be fascinating to see how social work functions in developing countries.“

“I chose IFSA because of the interesting classes offered, the ability to hold an internship while abroad, and the organized group field trip to Western China. It was incredible to be able to learn both inside and outside the classroom!“

“I chose IFSA for the comfort and security of knowing there are staff members there to help. I was impressed and surprised by the amount of support we had at orientation and throughout the semester and the opportunities the IFSA staff provided!“

“IFSA was there to support me along every step of my study abroad decision. Pre-departure resources made planning and preparing so much easier, while also working to support me in understanding how my personal identity might affect my time abroad.“

“I chose IFSA because they did so much more than just send me abroad or provide basic services. They gave me innovative strategies and professional support for preparing to study abroad and understand my culture holistically.“

“While in Wales, take every chance you can to go to the countryside, explore the hills, learn about the miners, eat the foods. This was everyday life for most people.“

“I chose IFSA for the freedom it gives to students as well as its emphasis on cultural immersion!“

“I chose IFSA because I was able to participate in computer science courses with a tight-knit group in a beautiful, central, and historic city. I also expanded my network with a professional internship. IFSA sets students up to be successful!“

“I chose IFSA because of their standout dedication to immersion and their commitment to allowing students to explore with independence.“

“Going abroad in London meant I had to conquer the city myself. London will forever be my city because I chose it and chose to conquer it to the extensive level that I did.“

“I ultimately chose IFSA because of its unique option to study at University of Oxford, which I have wanted to do for a long time. Also, the level of support and guidance that I received throughout the application process was unparalleled.“

“IFSA was super organized and helpful in my entire journey! It was so easy to go through IFSA’s program and I would highly recommend them! They quickly answered any question I had and made the whole process very smooth! “

“I chose IFSA because I wanted to live with a host family and direct enroll in university as well. I also wanted a more focused program that would be able to help and communicate closely with me as an individual.“

“IFSA allowed me to take classes taught by Chinese professors from several local universities while also directly familiarizing us with urban China. I also got the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel around central China through an IFSA-led trip!“

“I don’t know what my abroad experience would have looked like if I hadn’t chosen IFSA, but I am confident that choosing IFSA helped to make my semester abroad the best it could be!“

“IFSA simplified the process with stories from previous students, help with the application and class selection process. From the first information pamphlet, to the lifelong friends, and the comforting knowledge that there was always support available, IFSA was a gift to my time abroad.“

“IFSA allowed us to have so much independence and flexibility, which allowed us to engage with the local culture and explore the city right from the start.”

“The biggest thing I learned is the value of immersing oneself in a culture unlike that which you come from. Even though Australia speaks English, the culture has taught me to relax and take everything one step at a time.”

“I enjoyed the academic and personal freedom of my IFSA program. Being able to take whatever classes I wanted/needed in order to satisfy my requirements for major and what happened to interest me set the foundation for my study abroad experience.”

“For two years, I have tried to manage and exist with depression and anxiety. Coming to New Zealand enlivened me and gave me the tools to function and create the life I want and need. I was able to live somewhere for the first time away from family and friends and thrive in it. It allowed me to realize my potential and ability.”

“I think I’ve learned a lot about myself and my behavior—how I tend to act and react in situations. I’ve also become more assertive, courageous, and confident through this experience.”

“My IFSA program was amazing. They really do a great job making sure you adjust well and are well equipped for your time abroad.”

“Through IFSA, I learned to enjoy the small things in life, was able to better understand a culture different from mine, developed intellectually through independent study, and improved my Spanish.”

“The connections I made during my time in Scotland was the most enjoyable aspect of my IFSA study abroad abroad experience. Being part of the St. Andrews basketball team really facilitated my relationship with the campus and its students.”

“Through my IFSA program, I volunteered at a travel startup where I initiated and developed a six-month lesson plan for the first English teaching program in a Mayan community, created a cost plan for program volunteers, and translated itineraries.”