Why did you choose to study abroad in London?
I chose to study abroad to experience the lifestyle of a different country. It was also my dream to spend an extended period of time in London.
Why did you choose CAPA International Education above all the other programs out there?
I chose CAPA International Education because of the internship component of the program. Each student has the opportunity to obtain an internship in their field of study and that was extremely appealing to me.
What makes CAPA a special program?
CAPA gives you to the opportunity to work with companies and organizations in a foreign country. They also provide various outings and excursions around the city in order to expose students to some of the culture. In London this included a theatrical play, a rugby match, and a London Symphony Orchestra concert.
What advice do you have for future students of the CAPA program?
All future students should definitely think about obtaining an internship while participating with CAPA. It exposes students to what the work culture is in another country. It also looks great on resumes if an individual has work experience abroad.
What was your personal favorite part about the program?
I loved being able to gain work experience abroad. As a journalism major, it was great interning for The Independent newspaper, where I helped produce content for their website. I created infographics and conducted interviews for various sections of the paper.
Looking back, what's one thing you would have done differently?
I wish I would have taken more advantage of the services and excursions CAPA offered. The staff gives excellent walking tours in different parts of the city and I wish I would have done more of these.
What was a typical day in London like for CAPA participants?
Everyday most students get up and take the tube to class or to their internship. Some students had classes in the morning and then work in the afternoon or vice versa. We all used the tube and the red buses to get to the CAPA Center or to our internship sites, so it felt like we were legitimate Londoners. Oyster Cards for transportation around central London were included in our tuition fees.
Did you experience any culture shock in London?
I didn’t experience culture shock whatsoever. London has similar characteristics to the United States and there is no language barrier. It is different than what Americans experience back home, but I adjusted and fell in love with London quite quickly.
What advantages have you gained from your internship in London?
My experience with CAPA in London was absolutely amazing. It gave me valuable journalism skills I can use as I progress in my professional career. It also allowed me to experience living in a large urban metropolis overseas. My experience interning at The Independent and being able to take a tour of the BBC with the program sparked an interest in foreign reporting. I hope to return to London to work as a journalist at some point in the future.
