What inspired you to go abroad?
Studying abroad was not a part of my original 4-year plan. I'd anticipate joining campus clubs, meeting new people and making lifelong friendships, and maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Though, as we know, life never goes as planned.
After a rough summer post-freshman year and a summer of stunted growth post-sophomore year, I decided that the next summer I embarked on would have to be daunting. I owed it to myself to create a summer experience that was better than the years prior.
Through research and some inspirational TikTok videos, I came across the idea of studying abroad for a summer semester. As it aligned with my academic goals, and I was offered a full-ride scholarship, my plan came to fruition.
Tower Bridge
Why did you choose IES Abroad?
I'd heard good things about IES Abroad from a TikToker I follow, Hali Jama. In one post, IES Abroad was a provider mentioned who was more than generous in offering her the amount of money needed to attend a semester in Barcelona. Coming from a financially challenging background, the idea of going abroad with an organization that prioritized my financial needs was a top priority for me.
As a Black woman, I also loved that IES Abroad was a diverse organization. In terms of finances, diversity, and length abroad, IES Abroad hit all the points for me. It was a no-brainer to choose them when I embarked on a summer abroad journey then.
What was your favorite part about London?
My favorite part about my host city was the tube! I'm from New York, but the trains I'm used to for commuting are not as aesthetically pleasing or safe as I would like.
While riding the tube, whether alone or with others, I felt safe and content. I only got lost once on my 3-week journey of navigating the system, and for that, I can say it's more than accessible and easy!
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Meeting people from a wide range of backgrounds through the Goin' app made the experience abroad extraordinary. Unlike many others in the programs, I went in alone and relied on the app to connect with others before arriving in my host city.
I was able to meet a ton of people who were attending the same program and hang out with them, making connections I wouldn't have been able to otherwise.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
Local staff made sure to plan events for all students to partake in. There was rarely a moment when one had to be inside unless there was class.
Events would range in timing and location. You could really tell that everyone wanted to make the summer experience a great one, and although I didn't attend many events hosted by local staff, my friends who did really enjoyed themselves.
Fish and Chips
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
During my time abroad, I wish I'd brought different clothing. I attempted to fit in with the locals by wearing attire that reminded me of their culture, but ended up feeling very uncomfortable and inauthentic.
If I could turn back time, I'd pack clothes that made me feel more like myself, and leave room in my suitcase for shopping, should I have desired British apparel when I arrived.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
I'd wake up around 7:45 am on weekdays to get ready for my 10 am class. During that time, I'd brush my teeth, do my hair, and get dressed for the day. I'd fix up my bedsheets and eat a small meal before 9:00am and then head towards the nearest tube station.
It was about a 7-minute walk from my residence. The commute itself wasn't too long, maybe 20-30 mins. I'd then walk 5 minutes to my classroom building and be in class from 10 am to 5 pm, with an hour-long lunch break in between.
After class, I'd hang out with those I conversed with through Goin', sightseeing around London, and checking things off my study abroad bucket list.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my time abroad, I really enjoyed visiting local markets and checking off items on my London explore list.
I'd visit The British Museum, the Notting Hill neighborhood, the Tower Bridge, and even take an Uberboat across the River Thames.
I would also hang out with a friend I met on the Goin' app, exploring Chinatown and many more attractions and landmarks with her.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I was placed in a hotel about 30 minutes from my host university. My roommate and I shared a bunk bed with a private bathroom and kitchen area.
The best part about our accommodation was the kitchen. If either of us were too tired to go out or wanted to save money, we could easily cook breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and be satisfied.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Every future participant should know that IES Abroad is an organization that prides itself on helping its students, whether that be financially, academically, physically, or psychologically.
As long as you inform them of your needs, they'll do their best to assist you. Just make sure to communicate with the staff assigned to you. They're there to help!
London Eye
Would you recommend IES Abroad to others? Why?
I would recommend IES Abroad to others because of their generosity.
In my initial experience with the organization, I was met with many supportive staff members who guided me in the application process and were there to answer all of my questions, small or big.
My second experience with them wasn't as positive as I'd hoped, given my first one, but they're still a provider that is exemplary in comparison to others.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to gain international knowledge.
When one grows up in a specific country for most of their life, they adapt to one way of living. Studying abroad challenges that and forces one to embrace differing values, cultures, and expectations.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My time abroad has truly impacted my life in ways I never imagined.
I was a person who didn't have many friends prior to my experience, but I am now incredibly lucky to have two friends whom I met along the way. We're all long-distance, but their friendships are worth it, and have shown me that love knows no distance.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To travel meaningfully means to travel at one's own capacity, exploring at one's own pace and discretion while also making the most of every waking moment.
It means going beyond one's limits and embracing new opportunities as they present themselves. Traveling is a privilege, and to truly enjoy it is to make it meaningful.
