Q: Initially, what made you decide to study abroad? Why did you choose your program?
A: I wanted to travel and live abroad for a long period of time. I chose my program because I always loved the idea of living in London and because I am a stem major I thought it would make my classes easier because there isn't as much of a language barrier.
Q: What was the highlight of your study abroad experience?
A: Meeting people and making friends from all over the world. The connections I have made will become my lifelong friends.
Q: What was your greatest challenge abroad and how did you overcome it?
A: I think my greatest challenge abroad was being homesick. I think the way to overcome it, is to remind yourself of how lucky you are for being able to have this experience.
Q: How did your coursework abroad compare to your courses at UC Merced?
A: It was very different. You are mainly on your own with your studying and there isn't much homework during the semester.
Q: What did you gain from your study abroad experience?
A: I think I gained better perspective on how different cultures live. And I think it has helped me become a more well rounded person.
Q: What advice do you have for students considering study abroad?
A: Everyone is going to have a different experience. If you are an outgoing and friendly person, making new friends will be easy for you. But if you don't like talking to new people and are more of a homebody, it might not be the right choice for you.
Q: Describe a typical day abroad.
A: I would wake up and go to class. In between classes I would usually meet up with some friends for lunch or coffee somewhere on campus, usually the library. Then I would finish up my classes and walk around the city or do any errands, then have dinner with my roommate. And usually after that go to the pub or an event with my friends.
Q: If you could go anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go and why?
A: I would go to Paris, because a lot of my friends that I made are from there and I would love to see them again. And the pastries are out of this world.
