First-Year HFA Students Reflect on their Fall Semester in London
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By Sophia Apteker '23
It’s not typical for students to go abroad during their first semester of college, but a cohort of 19 students were given the opportunity to do just that. Of these, six of them were within the HFA program. The other two colleges that participated were Social and Behavioral Science and Isenberg School of Management.
Starting with the fall 2024 cohort, the International Program Office aims to open the program to a broader swath of students. They will continue to add courses, as well as additional locations, as they grow this program in future years.
Through the university’s partnership with CAPA: The Global Education Network, these first-year students learned to make the dynamic global city of London their campus. Here are some highlights and takeaways from Theo Schade (Anthropology and History), Piper Daley (English), Logan Moniz (Management and Chinese), Cameron Fritts (Classics), and Robert Kite (Linguistics).
Q: Why did you decide to go abroad?
A: I really wanted to study abroad my first semester because I am an out of state student, and I was worried about making friends in a large school, and I figured that going to London would help me make friends. I have also always really wanted to travel, and I figured no time like the present. — Theo Schade '26
Q: What were you able to learn about yourself while abroad?
A: There is a lot of strength that I developed, in order to drop everything and go across seas to pursue my academics. From homesickness, to navigating a new city, learning about new customs and integrating them into my daily life, and navigating a new kind of academic system, it has not been exactly easy. For any student that is abroad, you will easily find yourself facing the same kinds of difficulties. It is important to be kind and patient with yourself, as these things will not take hold over night. One of the most beneficial things you gain from studying abroad is a sense of awareness, and wisdom that is obtained when one is made to navigate a new environment on their own.” — Piper Daley '26
Q: What were some of your favorite parts of London?
A: Car meets at the Ace Cafe are great if you're into that, but other than that, underground shows are a must and fairly easy to find. Go to Printworks if it's still open. Brick Lane curry got me through some rough spots, and New Young Cheng in Chinatown has the best hot and sour soup in the city. Having a rough day? Go walk the embankment and London Bridge, that's always worth it. If you've got the cash to spare, tea at the top of the Shard is pricey but worth it if you go with someone.” — Logan Moniz '26
Q: What was it like adjusting back to the UMass Amherst campus?
A: Acclimating to campus actually was not that hard. I had the other people on the program to hang out with, and I also made more friends on campus too.” — Cameron Fritts '26
Q: Would you recommend this program?
A: To any students who are still on the fence about studying abroad, DO IT! You will 100% not regret it. Studying abroad opens you up to new ways of life, allows you to meet new people, and lets you have life changing experiences. It CAN seem scary. You're leaving your home for three months and being thrusted into a culture you know nothing about! However, it's much more common for people to regret NOT doing something than doing something.” — Robert Kite '26
Interested in studying abroad? Check out the International Programs Office's Education Abroad to learn more about the wide array of programs available to all UMass students.