I Loved London and Came of Age as a Global Citizen!! Past Review

By (Journalism., Texas Christian University) for

Texas Christian University (TCU): London - Coming of Age as a Global Citizen, Summer Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My study abroad experience was entirely worthwhile! I learned more about myself and about the English culture by studying abroad. I had some of the best experiences of my life in London during my study abroad program. The Coming of Age as a Global Citizen program has made me think about working in London or England in the future.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

There were no differences between educational systems because it was all through TCU. The workload was not bad, and the grading was good and fair. The teaching method was definitely one of the best parts of the class. We never spent a day in a classroom. Every class was held in a different part of London and usually in a museum. It was a great way to be able to see things in the museums without needing extra time from class - it was all PART of class!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

One major strength of the program was the size of the class (9 students). That small size made it so we all bonded quickly and were able to do things as a whole class without being split up. We were all able to do things together outside of class that a larger size would not have allowed. A weakness was not getting much time in the different museums before starting class discussions in a meeting place within the museum. There were many more strengths than weaknesses in the program.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing at Acorn Housing was different because we were missing some luxuries that we were used to in America, such as air conditioning. We were in a great location, though, and could walk just about anywhere in London. We were about a 5-minute walk from Holburn station, Sainsbury (grocery store), and Boots (Walgreens-like store). We had a few problems with the appliances in our flat, but the office always repaired or replaced anything we needed. The only real inconvenience was living on the top floor (in Flat E).

* Food:

I miss London/English food and restaurants now that I'm back in America. There have been many instances when I've craved something I had in London and could only get in London. We lived very close to some very good restaurants.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I saw 3 shows at the theatre and really had a great experience at each one. It was fabulous to see the London theatre in real life. I even stood outside after a show to get the actors' autographs. I walked past the Harry Potter world premiere in Trafalgar Square and was blown away by the chaos of it all. Then I saw the chaos at the midnight premiere when it debuted to the public. Harrods is crazy to maneuver. I went with a few other girls on the trip to Scotland and had an amazing time. Being in London was fabulous, and I would go back tomorrow if I could.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Dr. Steele told us about the pharmacy Boots to get anything we might need. She also told us how to be safe in London with where not to go, what not to do, and what taxis are safe to ride in.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? My words of wisdom would be to not worry about traveling abroad. London is one of the best places to go if you're apprehensive of going to another country. London is so much like an American city that it is not too different, yet it is entirely different at the same time. You still get the experience of studying abroad and being in a different city without worrying about a language barrier. Any student would benefit from Coming of Age as a Global Citizen and any TCU study abroad program.