Tell us a little bit about your experience. For starters, why did you choose the program that you did?
I chose the Summer Business in London program because it perfectly aligned with my professional, academic, and personal goals. Studying abroad has always been a lifelong dream of mine, not just to improve my education, but also to challenge myself by stepping outside my comfort zone and experiencing life in a new culture. This program offered the ideal duration for someone who didn’t want to commit to an entire semester abroad, while still providing a truly immersive experience. Earning 9 credits in one summer was a huge academic advantage, allowing me to fulfill a major requirement and the opportunity to graduate a semester earlier than I planned. On a professional level, the built-in internship was a golden opportunity to gain hands-on international experience — something I’ve always valued with my strong interest in International Business. Personally, I also saw this as a chance to grow my independence, adaptability, and global perspective, all of which are qualities I want to bring into my future career and life.
What did you gain from the experience?
One of the most meaningful things I gained from my experience abroad was the lifelong friendships I formed with my roommates. Even though we all attended UConn, we were complete strangers before the program — and now we’re lifelong friends! From late-night study sessions to weekend trips, cooking meals together, and making unforgettable memories, those shared moments became the heart of my time abroad. It’s crazy to think we might have remained strangers if we hadn’t chose to study abroad, and I’m truly grateful for the bond we built. Through these friendships, I learned so much about myself, grew in ways I didn’t expect, and experienced a level of character development I’ll carry with me for life.
What unique Experiential Global Learning opportunities did you encounter during your time?
During my time abroad, I had many opportunities for professional growth through both my internship and the program. Our faculty advisor organized visits to top business companies in London, giving us the chance to network and expand our knowledge of the professional world. One of the highlights was connecting with UConn alumni who now live and work in London — it was inspiring to hear their journeys and even encouraged me to consider returning to London after graduation. Through my internship, I also attended work events that were both enjoyable and valuable, allowing me to put myself out there, meet new people, and gain experience beyond the office. Combined with the program’s structured learning and cultural immersion, these opportunities gave me a unique perspective on international business practices, helped me grow both personally and professionally, and showed me how my field of study applies in a global context.
How has Experiential Global Learning helped you to understand and appreciate your program’s field of study?
EGL was an incredible support system for me during the pre-abroad process, especially when I was feeling overwhelmed with applications, financial aid, and the countless questions running through my mind. I’m so grateful for all the resources they provide — from detailed information sessions to one-on-one advising. My advisor was especially helpful, guiding me step-by-step through the application process, offering tips for essay prompts, and connecting me to scholarship opportunities that ultimately made my experience possible. I also appreciated the insights from student workers who had studied abroad themselves — hearing their personal stories and advice gave me a clearer picture of what my program would be like and helped me feel more confident and prepared for my own journey.
What would you say is your most memorable moment from the trip?
It might sound silly, but my most memorable moment from the trip was mastering public transportation and establishing my daily routine abroad. My schedule was packed… commuting between school, my internship, and other activities, so navigating a completely new city was a challenge at first. I’m proud that I was able to confidently navigate the London Underground and buses, which opened the door to so much more travel. From London, it was easy to hop on a train to places like Paris, Edinburgh, and Amsterdam, and I also explored many cities within the UK, including Folkestone, Brighton, and Canterbury. Each destination brought its own unique memories and experiences, making travel during my time abroad the highlight of my trip.
Tip(s) you’d give for future students participating in a program or those who are just starting to think about an experience
If you’re thinking about studying abroad, just do it. I can honestly say it was the greatest life experience I’ve ever had and the most impactful period of character development I’ve gone through. It opened my eyes to entirely new perspectives and left me with lessons I’ll carry for the rest of my life. I became a different, more confident version of myself — one who stepped out of my comfort zone, tried new foods, made new friends, traveled to new countries, and embraced opportunities I never would have at home. For those already abroad, say yes to every plan that comes your way. Make the most of every moment, because when it’s over, you’ll walk away not just with incredible memories, but as a version of yourself you’ll be proud to have become.