Student Spotlight: Kaelen Baly in England
“In terms of food trends that I’ve noticed, sausage is a big one. Whether it’s in a pastry or a pie, or a sandwich, there’s generally a choice of sausage with most meals. Similarly, I sensed a theme when it came to desserts. In my time here, I’ve come to learn that here in England, there is a cultural propensity to combine chocolate and orange flavoring. Snacks, cookies, candies, you name it.”
Student Spotlight: Kaelen Baly in England
“During my first month in London, my main challenge was figuring out how to navigate public transportation. Having grown up in suburban Texas, I came to this country with little to no experience involving public transportation, much less with foreign public transit. This was a challenge I anticipated and even embraced early on. However, after time, as I continued to struggle to find my way around, I found myself growing increasingly frustrated with things. I was only able to truly begin to make my way past this barrier when I allowed myself to seem like a foreigner.”
Student Spotlight: Angelle Nash in England
“The biggest challenge that I didn’t expect when coming abroad was dealing with how to be a foriegner. I did not realize the persceptions that non-Americans had about American politics, culture, and news until I got here. Being American, everyone I have met has wanted to talk about our politics and current events that I thought most “foreigners” would not know about. Seeing how informed the people I have met are on world events and their effects worldwide really showed me how sheltered I am as an American and how much I can grow in my knowledge of global events.”
Student Spotlight: Kyla Clemons in England
“England and the US are quite similar. They share many similarities when it comes to racial demographics, infrastructure, accessibility, and cultural diversity."
Student Spotlight: Adrianna Terrell in England
“This is my first time ever out of my home country, and my first time traveling on an airplane, so it has been a very new experience! One challenge that I noticed right away has been getting around within my city. The first day I took the bus to the grocery store, and they sure don’t make it easy for new people to know what to do. Luckily, I was with a large group so I could follow the people in front of me.”
Student Spotlight: Aishatou Tunkara in England
What is one challenge you experienced during your first month? How did you overcome that challenge?
"During my first month here in London, managing expenses was challenging. Initially, I spent freely on tourist activities without considering the exchange rate between US dollars and pounds. After reviewing my spending, I realized the significant difference and created a weekly budget to control my expenses."
Student Spotlight: Kentrell Louis in the UK
What is something you want to remember about your time abroad?”I just made it back from the Western side of the United Kingdom and am glad to say I was able to visit many places like Plymouth, Westminster, and Oxford. One thing I would like to remember about my study abroad experience is the different views I was able to have of different architecture and natural terrain. While the United Kingdom has deep historical roots, many of the buildings and architecture you'll see were built centuries ago. Considering this, I believe the buildings and the beautiful natural terrain are both once-in-a-lifetime sights to see.”
Student Spotlight: Kentrell Louis in the UK
What is one challenge you experienced during your first month? How did you overcome that challenge? “The bus system is the first challenge I have experienced while in Colchester. Being raised in a small town forced me to walk or drive, so I had only experienced riding a bus once I came to the United Kingdom.