Catherine McConkey - Western Connecticut State University, Danbury, USA
Written by Catherine McConkey, BA Hons Media Studies and Production. ISEP Study Abroad, 2017/18
ISEP, 2017/18
"Looking back on my experience studying abroad I can’t believe how lucky I was to have had the chance to experience a different culture, to live in another country at such a young age and to make so many lifelong friends."
When I first arrived I was really impressed!
The people were so friendly and helpful, even though I was nervous about starting classes people were very accommodating and made sure I knew my way about campus, what I was doing and were I was going.
The experience on campus itself was fantastic!
People were always there to help, there was always lots of games, great social activities that you could take part in and the professors were lovely.
Accommodation
When I studied abroad the accommodation was an apartment complex, it had four bedrooms each with their own roommate. We had our own kitchen, our own living space and a balcony.
Making Friends
At my University there were three other International students and I became very close with them.
One of the girls was Scottish, the others Swedish and Australian, we formed quite a good bond because we were the only International students.
I also got to know Americans in my class, they were very friendly and made sure I took part in activities like thanksgiving and made sure at the weekends I had plenty to do.
Challenges
One of the biggest challenges I faced was being away from my family, especially at Easter, I was lucky enough that I got home for Christmas. Another challenge I faced was not having a car, I had to rely a lot on public transport when over in this country I am able to hop into my car and drive about, I found this quite difficult!
Opportunities
During my year abroad I had the opportunity to travel, I went to Rhode Island, New York City, Boston, Canada, Philadelphia. We used a lot of public transport to get about, America is great for train and transport links, it makes it easier to explore and it was so good to see so many cultures.
Reflection
Looking back on my experience studying abroad I can’t believe how lucky I was to have had the chance to experience a different culture, to live in another country at such a young age and to make so many lifelong friends. Since I have come back to University I have seen a massive influx in my academic work, I’ve been sitting on firsts since I have come back and have become a lot more outgoing. From studying abroad, I got a job with a media institute who seen my videos I took when I was away, that has really given me confidence to progress in final year, I now speak out in class more, answering questions. Overall I would highly the Study abroad program to others!!