Randolph College Abroad: Program in England

When I first arrived in Reading, the most difficult challenge I faced was finding a line-up of courses which I had not previously taken back home in the US. Being an upper-class student going into Reading can be quite challenging, because Reading University is only designed for 3-year students, so course options can be very limited by the time Randolph/US University students arrive in third year.

I had so much trouble putting together a course schedule that worked, that my course selections were based merely on what I COULD take, rather than what I wanted to take. Eventually I made a schedule that worked, but my professors would add extra meetings, or on one occasion, my professor actually FORGOT to come to class and had to reschedule for a different day. The result was that all my courses over-lapped and I missed important classwork.

The courses were nothing but challenging though, and certainly put my brain power to the test. I took strong interest in each class I eventually signed up for, and found myself rather eagerly awaiting classes each week. Professors were always simple to contact, and remained after class for questions. I found even for my enormous lecture classes, my professors learned my name just because I took the time to approach them. I definitely would encourage any future students to take the time to initiate conversation with each professor.

The rest of the program was the most comfortable and amazing experience I could have hoped for while living abroad. The staff was excellent at catering to the students' needs, and supported us as we ventured into the community. Reading can be at times a dangerous town to be out in, very unlike the area of the US which I was fortunate enough to grow up in. All students I had the opportunity to meet carried assault alarms with them, something I never felt I needed to carry prior to my time in Reading. As long as students remain cautious, Reading is a safe enough town, and has its charm.

This review/comment section was not meant to sound so negative along the lines of scheduling and safety in the community, but I'd like future students to be aware of the potential difficulties which may arise during a study abroad session here, or anywhere for that matter.

Although it has been over 20 years that I spent my junior year abroad with Randolph-Macon Woman's College, I can still recall vividly so many of my experiences! Academically, the program was setup to allow the students to not only study the history and culture of Old Britain, but live it as well through amazing field trips and excursions. There were also opportunities to attend classes at Oxford! So much of the learning was practical and experienced through all the senses; seeing flying buttresses, tasting pub food,tea and scones, smelling fresh countryside,feeling dark, tight spaces while walking up bell towers, hearing the hustle and bustle of London streets. And this is the least that you'll do. We all took the opportunity to travel all throughout the year as that was part of our learning. I was in Cairo for Christmas, Edinborough for New Year's, Corfu for spring break and Amsterdam on a last minute weekend trip on the fly. And that's only the beginning. I also became involved at the Student Union working at the Mandela Bar which provided the chance to meet alot of students. This put us in touch with several sports teams, drama clubs, debate clubs, etc where we also became involved. All in all, this was the most incredible experience that could never be replicated. I had many experiences, saw several countries, meet plenty of people, some of whom I still keep in touch with today. Just last month I received a care package with momentos from the Royal Wedding. Everyone needs a Will and Kate tea towel! If you have this chance, take it!

This was a fantastic program. I was living with other American students, but totally connected to the British students and classes. The seminars taught specifically for students in this program were great too!

I graduated from Randolph-Macon Woman's College in 1977, and thoroughly enjoyed my junior year abroad at the Univ of Reading. The program was academically challenging, and the tutorial format made me stretch to think for myself.

Living among, and socializing with, the English students led to close, lifelong friendships. It also broadened my view of the USA and of the world - let's say it awakened my global awareness.

The opportunity to travel across Europe for weeks at a time was one which I will always cherish.

I recommend studying abroad to everyone, and I recommend the Randolph College experience because of the safe and supportive framework that it provides for its students abroad.

My year at Reading (1972-73) was the best year of my life. I loved Britain and the British and have returned several times. I did not want to return home. Broadening my horizons was invaluable and travelling the world as a student is totally different than as an older adult. It was an experience that cannot be repeated. All students should spend time abroad.

The opportunity to live abroad for a year was absolutely tremendous, and particularly to have done so through such a high quality program. The program is very well run with terrific support staff and academics.

I really loved being there for the entire school year as it offered us a chance to see a broad spectrum of life abroad and really forced us to make it 'home' as opposed to just an extended trip.

I came to Reading/R-MWC from a large, state school. My year in Reading absolutely changed my life, and it is a year about which I have absolutely no regrets. The people were incredible. Living in England in 141 Whiteknights is something I still miss, and I learned so much that year. Some of the best professors of my life were in Reading, and I was able to really get the most out of my education, taking everything from American Literature (in England!) to a final-year Environmental Biology class.

Being there a year made all the difference. We were able to immerse ourselves in "life at Reading," and because of that, I made friendships that endure to this day, and we all meet up every year or so for a "mini reunion."

I looked at a lot of study abroad programs when I was planning on transferring. This one was the absolute best -- program history, strong academics, great support, the whole shebang -- and I'm thankful every day that I made the decision to transfer and not only become part of the R-MWC family, but part of the long history of R-MWC Readingites.

I learned early in my year abroad that the British student takes work very seriously, but then has guilt free play time! Attend tutorials and seminars, do the research and written work, then join your friends for the evening.

I would wake up, have breakfast in the cafeteria, go to the library, tutorial, whatever - then there was always some dance somewhere!

I also joined friends to take a local bus to explore the country on weekends, or take a day trip to London - train tickets are inexpensive for a day-return - students can go into art museums for free! See first hand all the things you are learning about in books, it makes it all come to life, makes you really care about what you are learning. I was poor, so I'd pack marmalade sandwiches from breakfast, and buy a cup of tea somewhere!

Don't know about now, but there were always cheap - nosebleed - seats for great theatre or opera performances, and for dance, the panorama is best from up above anyway!

I traveled to Germany for my winter break, Greece and Italy for spring - again, poor, but rail passes, grocery store or market for food - one learns the language very quickly when negotiating for staples. I met so many people who were willing to help.

The experience at Reading is one I will never forget. I had tutors who would answer every question, or send me to find even more questions, which is even better.

The group tours we took to stately homes, palaces, gardens, after having the information about history, architecture, political climate - opened my eyes which, I hope, have remained open.

I loved attending classes, working, and living in England for an entire year! I would definitely recommend attending for the year, instead of just one semester if possible. The field trips were amazing as we were able to see history that America simply doesn't have. The houses were wonderful to live in, and the roommates are great. Students who go to Reading in this program are interested in having fun, but also have an educational experience. That's a great combination... you'll make lasting memories and friendships!

I had the best time on my study aboard year! As a history major I got to travel and see so many things I had learned about. As I look back over college it was the best decision I made to spend that year traveling and studying in England.

The Randolph College study abroad program in Reading, England is a world-view changing experience for the lucky students who attend. This program offers a balance of individualized attention and guidance while also encouraging students to go it alone and explore new activities, cultures, and experiences.

Attending the Randolph College program is not only is an avenue to great experiences but connects students to an amazing group of the study abroad program's alums. The program even holds 'reunions' for those who attended.

I spent my junior year abroad at Reading and absolutely recommend the program. The only negative was that the year ended far too soon!

Wonderful program. Met a lot of great people. Education is different in England since they are so much more advanced in their studies than we are, but the professors woudl always schedule meetings with you, if needed. So much to do not only in Reading, but in the neighboring cities as well. One of the best experiences I have ever had!

Randolph College Abroad: The World in Britain was definitely the highlight of my college career and arguably the highlight of the first quarter of my life! Who I am today was directly shaped by this program, the exceptional staff who became my family, the women I lived with, and the unique educational and travel opportunities that were available to me because of this experience. Today I am more adventurous, curious, independent, savvy, thoughtful, and aware thanks to The World in Britain!