Jack Silson

University Degree Title: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Host University: The University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
Year of Study Abroad: 3rd Year

Where did you live? Would you recommend it?

I lived in Sandburg Halls, the university´s halls of residence. It was a great way to meet people and make friends and was very close to the university itself. The rules were a little strict compared to what I was used to, but still a friendly place to live. I would however recommend moving into a house for the second semester if possible. American people are extremely friendly and more than willing to talk to/help you.

Which department(s) did you study in?

I studied in the Engineering and Maths departments

How does the workload/classes/teaching styles vary to Sheffield?

The workload is a lot more than in Sheffield and can be quite stressful. I found that I had homework to do every night. The assignments however were relatively easy and therefore still allowed me to have time for myself.

What did you do for fun/ at weekends / holidays?

I used the fact that I was in America as an excuse to travel and stayed in America for the whole year. Having said that a lot of weekends were used up by partying. Milwaukee doesn´t have too many night clubs but it has more than enough bars to go to.

Did you join any societies or clubs?

I played Raquet Ball on Friday mornings, it is the American equivalent of squash, but the University did have many societies and sports clubs to join.

Describe the University/City/things to do

The University Campus is very nice and the Halls of Residence are close to the Universtiy. The lecture halls are small and feel more like classrooms which makes the learning experience more personal and the lecturers are very helpful. The Universtiy is quite far from the city centre however and getting there can be a bit of an effort. As a student you do get a free bus pass which helps but it can be frustrating trying to get to places. There is an arena which is good for music (The Rave). The Lakefront Brewery tour was good fun and eating in the restaurant afterwards. There is the beach, and a free gym at the university and a lot of sporting opportunities.

Could you give any travel or immigration tips?

Travel as much as you can. The American people are extremely friendly and helpful and there is a lot to see.

Could you give any advice or tips to a student preparing to go or tell them anything you wished you knew in advance?

The American educacation system is modular and as result the students get to pick and choose when they take a certain subject. Some of these subject are taught in both semester, others in only one and only occasionally not taught at all. Make sure you check before you go otherwise you may get into difficulty choosing the modules that you need to take.

Would you say it is cheaper or more expensive to live than Sheffield?

I would say that is about the same as Sheffield but in general better quality.

Any other information or comments

Really glad I did it, it was an immense year.