What is your favorite travel memory?
Back in 2019, I travelled to Sri Lanka and explored the country by tuk-tuk and took the famous blue train through the stunning mountain landscapes. When I arrived in Ella, I had the chance to meet up with a former colleague and friend who showed me a less touristy side of Sri Lanka.
I had the opportunity to visit James Taylor’s farm, the first tea plantation in Sri Lanka, along with other areas of restored land where I learned about biodiversity conservation and the vital role local communities and international volunteers play in protecting their environment. It was an unforgettable experience that deepened my appreciation for sustainable practices and the profound impact of international collaboration.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
I’m passionate about intercultural education, not just as a form of personal development, but also as a way to build greater understanding and, ultimately, contribute to world peace. I feel incredibly lucky to help students from around the world experience British culture, while also encouraging them to share their own traditions, customs, and ideas with us.
Since joining the Study Abroad team, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people who continue to inspire me. Despite the challenges we face in today’s world, they remind me that we are stronger when we work together, learn from one another, and celebrate our differences.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
I love receiving feedback from our students and hearing how they have enjoyed their time with us. I was particularly moved to hear that one of our exchange students has won the Language Café Volunteer of the Year Award for her contribution to the Language Café society and supporting students learning Korean.
This is what participating in an exchange programme is all about: immersing yourself in the university community and learning from one another. It's moments like these that remind us of the incredible impact exchange students can have within our community.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
There are two types of programmes available: a semester abroad or a full year abroad. Personally, I’d choose the year abroad because it gives you a longer, more immersive experience and the chance to really settle in, make friends, join societies and make the most of your time. Plus, you get to enjoy the summer holidays both in the UK and abroad, which is a great bonus!
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
The University of Sussex has a (good) reputation for being a liberal and diverse community. Here, we truly value and respect people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, faiths, and sexual orientations. Our campus is a vibrant, international space where difference is celebrated and inclusivity is part of everyday life.
The Study Abroad team reflects that same spirit. We’re a close-knit, friendly group, always happy to support our students and each other. Like many of our students, we come from different cities and countries, but we’ve all found a home here in Brighton. That says something about the kind of place Sussex is: open, welcoming, and full of character.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
We believe that you can only truly understand the highs and lows of packing your life into a suitcase and moving to another country on your own by experiencing it yourself. That’s why our team is uniquely placed to support students; we’ve all lived abroad at some point in our lives (some of us permanently). We understand the mix of excitement, anxiety, and everything in between. Because we’ve been there, we’re not just here to offer practical advice; we genuinely get it, and we’re always ready to listen and help.
Response from University of Sussex
Great to hear that you enjoyed your time at Sussex David.