Swansea University

When I decided to spend a semester abroad at Swansea University, I hoped I would be able to challenge myself with the experience of living so far from home for a few months while also getting a taste of Europe. I'm happy to say that my time here has been everything I hoped for and more. Swansea may lack some of the glamour of a city like London, but its location on the Gower Peninsula offers easy access to some seriously beautiful places (Rhossili is one place you absolutely should go), both on the peninsula and throughout other parts of Wales. Plus, a weekend in London is still only a three-hour train ride away. If you want to leave the UK, traveling to Europe is cheap and convenient from nearby airports in Cardiff and Bristol. The cost of living (and drinking) in Swansea is also quite low, which as a student is really nice. As for academics, the professors I've had here have been great, and they're very accessible for students to get help if needed. Participating in the pre-sessional course also allowed me to meet other international students from several different countries, some of whom have become very close friends. The many clubs and societies at the university also provide opportunities to explore hobbies and meet other students. Overall, between the friendships I've made and the traveling I've had the chance to do during my free time, I can't recommend this program enough, and I'll forever be glad I chose to come to Swansea!

I had the most amazing time at Swansea University, in Wales. I was there for the full 17/18 academic year studying Media and Communications. It was a blast. The teachers were so nice and helpful and understanding of the differences between the US and UK school system. I learned more in that one year than I think I did in two years back home. I loved the society I got to be a part of while there, the Christian Union (CU). I had an incredible time with them the whole year and made so many lifelong friendships. Would 10/10 recommend Swansea University and Wales to anyone.

If you want a true, authentic British experience in a place that is affordable and convenient for travel elsewhere around Europe, Swansea should be your top choice. Firstly, the people make this beach town very inviting and easy to become comfortable in. It's not too big nor too small and has everything you could need in an area for school. Public transportation is great and its easy to get to Cardiff to take on some European trips. Academically, it is well run and not overwhelming with plenty of resources for all students. Lastly, the student social life is top notch. Wind Street and Varsity are just the tip of the iceberg for the great activities and events that students can partake in.

Swansea County is a sprawling area on the southwestern coast of Wales, containing miles and miles of rolling farmland, lush cliffside views, numerous sleepy little villages, and Swansea City. Both Swansea Uni's main campus (Singleton) and newly-built Bay Campus are oceanfront, with easy access to long stretches of calm beach. A semester-long bus pass provides access to the entire county, which includes day trips to Rhossili Bay--one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. A student National Express card (around £10) provides 10-20% discounts on buses that run the entirety of the UK, and the MegaBus is a seriously discounted travel option for travel between Swansea and London. The Student Village (Hendrefoelan), though dated, was a great way to meet new people, and I made lifelong friendships that I wouldn't trade for the world. My professors were both thoughtful and approachable. Because of Swansea's location, international travel is easy, affordable, and encouraged over the spring holidays, and Swansea Uni sponsors several trips throughout the semester to UK hotspots like Bath and Stonehenge, and European hubs like Amsterdam. The opportunities afforded me because of my time in Swansea have been life-changing--from experiencing the often-overlooked-but-vivid-and-rich Welsh culture to contributing to respected travel magazines. The obvious locations for study abroad are a stone's throw from Wales, but the bonds formed in Swansea have changed my life for the better in more ways than I can even express. Don't count it out.

Its easy enough to give into the lure of studying abroad at one of Europe's major cities, but I think there is something to be valued in spending a length of time in somewhere you wouldn't think to visit otherwise. Swansea is a place of fantastic contrasts, best exemplified in the existence of the quaint, slightly tired city centre that is a few miles away from some of the most breathtaking coasts and beaches in the world. The people and students are rough and brash on the outside, but some of the most exceptionally kind people in reality. The weather can be brutally rainy for days, but when the sun comes out, the beauty is breathtaking. A lot of people want to go to an idyllic location when they study abroad, but the best memories are made when things aren't perfect. I can honestly say that I made friends for life, both in Swansea and from different universities in the U.S and have been able to keep in touch with all of them. I had the chance to work an 8 week internship, which has been a great asset during my job search. I joined 2 clubs on campus and surfed, hiked, and rock-climbed almost every day. My classes and professors were excellent but not too intrusive or time-consuming. The nightlife is wild and ever-present, and the college kids are a ton of fun. Transportation is accessible (can be slow), but can get you anywhere you really need to, at least at first. Also, there's a Premier League team right down the road. Swansea is a bit of a departure from the norm for a study abroad destination, but I can promise that it won't disappoint.