Once in a Lifetime

I arrived in the UK with two suitcases, enough for a cab to my residence and apprehension for the semester to come. Once finished unpacking, I scrambled together all the courage I had and knocked on someone's door; it was the best decision I could have made. Instantly the people in my hall took me around, showed me the ropes and became a wonderful core group of friends that I would go out with, stay in with, and ultimately spend most of my experience abroad with. There was so much to do and see, and it was so easy to get to other countries in the European Union that I was able to explore and really come to see other cultures and new places.

The most difficult part of the experience though, was definitely academic. The different styles of teaching promoted a much more independent style of learning which I was definitely not accustomed to. Once I did get used to the lecture and tutorial class structure, I was still faced with a lot of outside reading and learning to accomplish what I did. The Eurolearn staff prepared us that our grades may not be as high as we generally achieve. Being very a conscientious student, my grades would have seriously shocked me had it not been for their warning and I'm so glad they gave me that warning. Though challenged greatly academically, I learned so much about my subject (mathematics) that makes me want to study further in fields of mathematics that I didn't know existed.

My study abroad experience at the University of Manchester was incredible and unforgettable. The Eurolearn staff was so helpful in preparing us for the changes in academics and social life that the transition was much smoother than I ever could have imagined. I made friends that I will keep forever, memories that I will always have to look fondly upon and an academic experience like nothing I've ever had before. I would encourage all students considering a study abroad experience to go. The experience changes your life in such a positive way. I have gained so much independence, confidence, and perspective that I am now realizing a world of opportunities that await me.