The World Is Your Oyster: Making Memories Across the UK
Article and photos by Sierra Dale
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If you’ve ever had even the smallest inkling of studying abroad DO IT. So far, I’ve studied in Tokyo, Japan, and London, England over the winter and summer sessions. These travels have been some of the most memorable moments I’ve had in undergrad.
Studying abroad offers the invaluable opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture, broaden your worldview, hone your independence, and nourish your curiosity. You get to meet people from all walks of life, whether that be within your program or everyday exchanges with locals.
This past August, I had the privilege to study at the London School of Economics (LSE) via their summer abroad program. I applied on both the UMass Abroad Portal and LSE website and secured housing on the LSE site as well. This program did not feature a third-party organizer and was directly through LSE. I was enrolled in The Wealth (and Poverty) of Nations: Global Economic Development Past and Present, which fulfilled my 300+ Resource Economics requirement for my Managerial Economics major. This course hands down has been my favorite class I’ve taken in my college career. Taught by passionate professors, Jordan Claridge and Jason Lennard, the subject matter was relevant and contextual in the realm of modern and neolithic economics, history, and society. Not to mention, LSE’s campus is located in the heart of central London, a mere ten-minute walk from notable landmarks such as Covent Garden, and local gems of restaurants in Chinatown.
My accommodation for the program was an hour commute from campus in the Butler’s Wharf borough, which I loved as it allowed me to experience parts of the city I likely wouldn’t have explored. For instance, Tower Bridge was only a two-minute walk from my dorm and the HMS Belfast Warship Museum—which was a highlight of my trip! Additionally, with the efficient London public transportation, traveling to other ends of the city was no problem for classes or other activities.
If you’re looking for a study abroad experience without a language barrier that caters to an array of interests, London is the place to go. The city has a rich history with countless free museums, amazing food, and some of the best shopping!
In addition to all the sites in London, national rail lines make it easy to see the English countryside and travel to other cities and regions. I took the Great Western Railway from London to Edinburgh, and fell in love with the Scottish highlands. Home to incredible history and breathtaking views, I visited Edinburgh during the Fringe—an annual drama-filled month showcasing creative talent ranging from comedy shows to a cappella performances. My time in Edinburgh was absolutely magical and it has been one of my favorite cities I’ve ever visited.
On the way south from Edinburgh back to London, I stopped at Bath and York and had an amazing time seeing other attractions and meeting locals. Overall, my time in the UK and my time at LSE were such an incredible experience and I implore everyone to find a place where they would be interested in studying abroad.
Unfortunately, the reality of studying abroad can be difficult for many for a variety of different reasons; however, I encourage everyone to talk to a study abroad advisor in the Global Education Advising Center to learn more about different avenues that suit personal needs: whether that be navigating scholarships, course recommendations, or major requirements. As a former music major, I understand how difficult it can be to fulfill courses typically only offered on campus, which is why I recommend winter and summer sessions abroad as well. With that in mind, due to the shortened time frame for these sessions, semester-long classes are condensed into a three-week period, making the programs much more rigorous.
Nonetheless, the world is your oyster and I suggest checking in with your academic advisor to see what’s available for you!
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Sierra Dale
