The London Eye!
Why did you decide to apply for a study abroad program?
I decided to apply for Grand Valley's study abroad program because I love adventure. Life is short, and opportunities that are this grand are a rare occurrence. I believe, wholeheartedly, that people should take advantage of adventure at every chance they have. Culture, exploration, and wonder are hallmark indicators of what separates the human species from any other animal. Not taking the time to acknowledge these indicators is to neglect the life we have been given.
Why did you choose a GVSU study abroad program?
Grand Valley State University is a great school. The faculty is second to none, and they do everything they can to ensure the success of their students. I chose study abroad through the Padnos International Center at Grand Valley because I knew I would get a quality education, a phenomenal program, and caring mentors. Specifically, the communications program applies to my major; it allowed me to pursue my passions abroad while also gaining class credit. My abroad professor, Dr. Leek, has become my single biggest source of inspiration. She encourages critical thinking, and fosters an atmosphere for relationships and care.
What was your favorite part about England?
My favorite part about England was our location. We were a quick tube ride from any number of attractive destinations. From Buckingham Palace, BBC, and Westminster Abbey, to "hole-in-the-wall" destinations like Portabello Market or Hyde Park. We were truly immersed in the English culture. Not only was our location centrally located, but it also provided us an opportunity to daily interact with the English, culturally significant food, music, dance, etc. became part of our daily routine.
Exploring the British Fleet
Why is GVSU’s program in the UK unique?
My program was unique for two reasons: my professor and myself. As I said earlier, Dr. Leek is truly a one-of-a-kind woman. She expects only the best from her students, and she receives nothing less. Above all, she is a highly respected instructor who has nothing but compassion for her students. Helping them to appreciate education is her only goal.
As for myself, I took it upon myself to explore various areas of Europe as well; after my trip through England I spent a couple months backpacking through Ireland. This opportunity allowed me to experience travel and culture in a way I have never been accustomed to. Solo-travel, though perhaps frightening at the start, is incredibly rewarding.
Never before have I personally grown so quickly, and in such a life-defining manner.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
Local staff was amazingly helpful! From room service to tour guides, my trip through England would not have been the same without them! Because of the intense pace of my program, it was important that transportation, event coordinators, etc. were consistently on time, and I was never let down!
What is your one regret?
If I could do one thing differently, I would have paid twice as much and gone two years in a row!
The boy band pose atop the Glastonbury Tor
Describe a day in the life of your program.
Generally speaking, we would get up around 9 a.m., have breakfast (preferably at a cafe or local coffee shop), and begin class around 10 a.m. We generally had lectures that lasted an hour, followed by a few events that let us experience English culture better. For example, we visited Glastonbury (where I met Prince Charles!) and toured the Victoria and Albert Museum. We would have lunch around 1 p.m., and might spend the rest of our day conducting research at the British Library, etc. Finally, generally speaking, 5 p.m. to midnight would consist of free time that included dinner, interacting with locals, and attending various events.
What was your thing to do in England outside of your normal course schedule?
My favorite activity outside our normal schedule was definitely experiencing the culture offered in Kensington and the surrounding area. This generally consisted of simple exploring, eating food, talking with locals, attending markets for clothes, accessories, food, etc. The list of possibilities in London was endless; having "nothing to do" was simply never an option.
We were always learning, always interacting, and always exploring.
What type of accommodation did you have in England?
We stayed at the dorms of Imperial College. These accommodations were wonderful. They were clean, well kept, and offered the opportunity for us to have class in an informal setting. Above all, the staff at Imperial College was remarkable. They were always friendly, willing to help, and made their services very clear.
Some food on the beach!
How has studying abroad changed you?
My program has entirely changed how I view my world. Just because you speak the same language, does not mean you live in similar cultures! I have learned to value culture and people to a much higher degree, and have a greater appreciation for how people live. Now that I've returned to America, I do my best to explore some of the cultures in my own backyard.
