The overseas study programs at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) offer students opportunities to explore the world through education in partnership with the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS). During the spring semester, students can travel to Florence, Italy; in the fall, destinations rotate between Barcelona, Catalonia, and London, England. Summer sessions send students to various locations based on SRJC course offerings, with the next group heading to Cusco, Peru.
Each program includes different accommodation options and travel packages, seemingly making the only requirement for students to pack their bags and go. However, after spending the 2024 fall semester (and revisiting in spring 2025) in London, some valuable insights emerged—four things the authors wish they had known before embarking on their semester abroad.
Housing Realities
Students traveling to London can choose to stay in the iQ Tufnell Tower residence in Islington, but its exterior and the dormitory-style rooms are less than inviting. Though AIFS offers homestays with local families included in the $9,495 program fee, the “apartment” option requires an additional $1,755. This apartment is managed by iQ, a student housing company owned by the real estate giant Blackstone. In reality, students share cramped dormitory rooms with five others, where everything except the bathroom and bed is communal.
The dormitory frequently lacked hot water, and conditions included black mold, broken lighting, and pantry-invading mice—none of which were disclosed in housing brochures. Students should be prepared to buy linens, cleaning supplies, and other essentials themselves. Housing differs by program: Florence offers apartment-style living without homestay families, according to student reports.
Roommates are critical to the experience. A positive roommate can ease the challenges of dorm life, while a difficult one can make the semester unbearable. The authors recount a problematic scenario involving a 40-something man named “Ted,” whose disruptive behavior—ranging from harassment and smoking indoors to watching pornography on shared TVs—led to his removal after two weeks. This incident suggests that SRJC should consider interviews for study abroad applicants, a practice some peer colleges already follow.
Navigating Student Behavior and Culture Shock
While extreme cases like Ted’s are rare, there is inevitably some drama among college students living closely together. Despite some troublemakers being expelled, many problematic students remain. Adjusting to a new culture and environment often causes emotional outbursts and immature behavior. Fellow students are urged to show understanding during this difficult transition.
Balancing Academics and Exploration
Studying abroad is not only about attending classes but also about experiencing new cultures and social scenes. Students are encouraged to select manageable course loads that allow time to engage with their surroundings rather than being glued to screens. Although housing was promised near classes, many students faced hour-long commutes on the London Underground. However, time on the Tube often provided a necessary break from academic pressures.
Health and Safety Preparedness
It is essential for students to identify nearby healthcare facilities and memorize emergency contact numbers in their host countries. AIFS partners with the international insurance provider CISI, offering comprehensive health coverage. However, students are warned to keep all receipts and claim forms, as reimbursement processes may be complicated and require persistent follow-up.
Making the Most of the Experience
First impressions can be misleading, as everyone adapts differently to life abroad. Social cliques and classroom disruptions were common, highlighting the stress of acclimating to a new environment. Patience is advised as classmates and instructors all adjust to living in unfamiliar settings.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of long weekends to travel and explore. Apps like Skyscanner help find affordable flights around Europe, and budget airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet provide convenient options—though packing light is crucial due to strict baggage policies.
Choosing travel companions wisely can enhance the experience, but students should also be open to forming lifelong friendships during their journeys.
Reflecting on the Experience
Despite challenges, the authors affirm they would repeat the experience without hesitation. Studying abroad offers unique opportunities to immerse oneself in new cultures, travel extensively, expand personal boundaries, and build memorable relationships. The difficulties, including less-than-ideal housing and unexpected challenges, contribute to a compelling story and lasting growth.
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