Program Reviews

Studying abroad at Brighton University was possibly one of the most amazing and smartest decisions I have made in my life. The program in all was great. The particular courses that I took were a perfect fit for my major. Also the program directors of USAC at the University of Brighton were so kind and warmhearted. The social scene was lively and I always had a good time. I've made some friends for life on this study abroad trip and I recommend studying in Brighton if given the opportunity.

I could sit here and talk about stories from Brighton for years, but the most important story in my heart is just the memories of the amazing friendships I have made. There's something about friends that have had all the same life changing experiences as you. A week before we left we say on our couch, crying and reminiscing on all the amazing adventures we've had together that you just can't get anywhere else.

Brighton is the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a place for social interactions and the quietness of a small town. The bus and train systems make it easy to get everywhere you want to go. Taking a day to just go into town, have afternoon tea in my favorite place (The Mock Turtle), and walk down by the pier make for the best day. The friends that I have made throughout this program make it even better.

Four years later and it's still the best decision I ever made. If I could do it all over again right this second I would. I don't even know where to start because there are so many awesome things about this program. The biggest thing for me was not only learning a lot about teaching in a hands on way that I had never experience before, but being immersed in the culture and learning a lot about myself. I grew up and became more independent, and changed for the better in ways I never would have if not for this trip. I got to see the history and mesmerizing architecture of the country that's not available to us in the states. The weekend trips are 110% worth it because you would never plan it or get as much for as little money as you pay on your own. The program itself is amazing and they make sure to teach you things for classroom, but they also give you experiences that are worth so much more. They know how valuable getting immersed into the culture is. I remember walking around and exploring Brighton for hours because it is a one of a kind city. You're right in the coast, with a million options of places to eat, shop, and explore, but you're also only an hour or so train ride away from London. I loved the accommodations because you had your own room and bathroom, but shared a common area and full kitchen. The transportation was easy and convenient no matter what time of day or night. You see cliffs, castles, Stonehenge, bath, Oxford, London, etc. I grew as a person and teacher and made life long friends. If you're reading this, there's no question, you should make the best decision of you're life too.

This experience was hands down one of the best experiences of my life. I traveled to England with 7 strangers, and we all left as 7 great friends! England helped me grow as an individual and as a teacher. I remember our professors (Kate and Dave) telling us, "Now, you can sit in any classroom and learn, but there is only one way to truly learn. Get out and explore! Find out what this world as to offer... so why are you still sitting in our room...go explore...go...I mean it...go!!!" Those words are words that I live by today. Each day we made our own adventures whether that was going to downtown Brighton, exploring Paris for three days, or going to Bath, we made the most of our trip.

There is so much I want to tell you about how amazing this trip was from the fish and chips (I still crave these) to the friendly people helping us navigate public transportation to the intricate architecture to the delicious Paris crepes....I could go on forever. The world was waiting outside our dorm room doors and just waiting for us to explore!

When I was heading home at the end of July in 2014, excitement set in when I realized that my family would be waiting for me at the airport. After showing my family all the pictures, telling them all the stories, and giving them their gifts, my joy wore off. It hit me; I was back to reality. Within only a few days, I already missed the adventure and the adrenaline rush I felt each day the past three weeks. Each day a new adventure was waiting for us to discover. Now, back in my hometown, living the daily life again, I realize there is no European adventure waiting for me when I wake up but there is something I can discover each day whether that is within others or myself. Not being able to explain my experience is one challenge I still have. So many people have asked me about my trip, and I just simply reply, “It was amazing! Nothing like I could have ever imagined.” Showing my family and friends pictures and telling them stories may help them understand a little bit of my experience, but I know that no word I say or image I show them will help them fully understand the whole experience. Something changed in me. Something made me realize the little joys in life, the feeling that everything will be okay, the sense that there is more than one way to reach a goal, and the independence and strength I have had in myself all along.

There is no better experience than studying abroad especially in England. You will learn how life in England is much more laid back; people take life as it comes. In parks, people are not on their phones, but instead they are enjoying each other's company. You will learn how things that may be different from how you do something is not wrong but just different (example: driving on the left side of the road, using pounds instead of dollars, navigating public transportation). Last but not least, you will learn who you are as a person. I have no doubt in my mind that you will walk away from this experience a changed person. Trust me. You will.

As Kate and Dave would say, "Now, you can sit in any classroom and learn, but there is only one way to truly learn. Get out and explore! Find out what this world as to offer, so why are you still sitting in our room...go explore...go...I mean it...go!!!" (so why are you still reading this...go!) :)

My study abroad experience at Brighton University was extraordinary. The greenery and wild life are stunning. Escape is just a scheduled bus ride or train fair away to destinations I couldn't have known would change my life. I visited neighboring towns and found such a rich culture that is rarely seen at tourist attractions. Each day was an adventure and something new. My first week there was a Bollywood movie being filmed and suddenly I was an extra in the film. The next day I was exploring castle ruins. My heart was in a constant state of fluttering with each new experience. School was no different. The staff was warm and welcoming. The support and motivation was constantly present. I saw moments of learning that altered my entire teaching philosophy. I received first hand experience with inclusion and diversity that I was lacking in the states. Most importantly, I felt at home. As an untraditional student I didn't feel at home on campus until I attended Brighton University. My only regret was the limited time I spent there. No other university program could offer the sensations, views, and academic rigor that Brighton can.

During my time in Brighton, I felt not only like I was passing through this city but that I belonged here. I loved going into town with my friends and exploring the streets of Brighton, and also the many pubs. Singing karaoke at Ye Old King and Queens was one of my favorite memories, although I don't think the other patrons enjoyed hearing Party in the USA. Visiting the schools of Brighton was another activity that I really enjoyed. Comparing and contrasting the schools to those in America was really interesting!

We spent a whole day in London. I remember running frantically all over the city to see as much as possible. Of course it was nearly impossible to see everything in one day, but everyone was so excited it was hard not to try. We made it to long in about 2 hours, so we were there by around 11 am. We were allowed to stay as long as we wanted, but we had to make sure we were back to get sleep for class the next day. We spent the whole day down there, and I remember how absolutely exhausted I was but it was worth it. We saw Big Ben, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, changing of the guards, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament and so much more. It is an experience that I will never forget and one that is a once in a life time opportunity. Becka and Mary were fantastic. They showed us all around the city and then let us go out on our own to explore. I can't stress enough how wonderful they were, and how personable they were. If you have questions ask because they are always more than willing to share the answers with you!

My experience in Brighton is one I will always remember. Although my time in Brighton was short I made a lifetime worth of memories. Before leaving I knew no one I was traveling with; however, I quickly became good friends with everyone. Being only a bus ride away from the center of Brighton was amazing. The staff at the University of Brighton was extremely welcoming and made sure that we experienced everything we could. The classes were unlike anything I had been in before, which made attending class much more fun and engaging. If I had the opportunity I would go back to Brighton in a heartbeat.

Going to Brighton, England was the first time I ever traveled out of the United States and it was the best experience of my life. During this trip I made some of the best memories of my life and also best friends. The staff at the University was so helpful and I never felt alone or unsafe! The trips you take will take your breath away and I I could not of asked for anything better! Going on this trip changed my life and my academic career! Go to Brighton and have the best experience of your life! You will not regret it!