Do it! It might seem uncomfortable at first, but I promise you it will be such a fantastic adventure.
Why did you decide to study abroad?
Studying abroad in the United States was something I'd wanted to do for as long as I can remember, so the opportunity to study there as part of my degree was naturally a huge factor in my choosing to come to Sheffield. I knew from the moment I arrived that I would do everything I could to ensure I got the opportunity I so badly desired. I can't tell you exactly why America was a place I'd dreamed of studying in, perhaps I was drawn in by the glamour that the media seems to so effectively portray: those incredible skylines dominated by imposing skyscrapers, the glitzy spectacle of their sporting events, and the breathtaking national parks.
What were your top 3 highlights whilst studying abroad?
A moment that particularly stands out was on the 19th December. I was sitting under a palm tree at Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles, watching the sun slowly set over the Pacific Ocean, with balmy temperatures of 23 celsius! It was a moment of great reflection as it struck me how cool it was to be in a world famous city I'd always fantasised about visiting, and how this was exactly the kind of moment I'd hoped I would find myself in.
Furthermore, watching the Oklahoma University American Football Team beat their instate rivals Oklahoma State was excellent. 85,000 crammed in on a Saturday night to watch a high-scoring, closely contested game. The atmosphere was electric, the spectacle was incredible, and the post-game celebrations were second to none. Truly the whole campus gets on board and it was a great instance of the 'school spirit' that American universities like to promote.
I spent Thanksgiving weekend in Las Vegas, and during the trip me and my friends took the time to visit the Grand Canyon National Park. What you've heard doesn't do it justice. I was genuinely lost for words at the staggering beauty conveyed by rock intricately carved over millions of years by the snaking Colorado River. Don't get me wrong I still love the National Parks of the UK, and I do miss the Peaks, but in this regard, the US has us beaten.
What would you say to someone who was unsure about spending a period abroad?
Do it! It might seem uncomfortable at first, but I promise you it will be such a fantastic adventure. You might justifiably be worried about leaving your friends, family and home behind, but trust me they'll still be there for you when you return. Go out there and make yourself some memories that will last a lifetime!
Say yes to as much as possible and you'll experience some incredible things. If someone on a whim asks if you want to go to Arkansas for the weekend to go hiking, do it.Talk to as many people as possible, it will broaden your worldview hugely and will allow you to reflect upon your own perception of the UK. Not only will you be surrounded by those of the country you are in (to whom you'll appear very exotic and interesting), you'll also likely be part of a community of fellow exchange students from across the planet. They'll be just like you, wanting to take up any opportunity to enjoy new experiences, and will also suffer the same difficulties as you, giving you someone to talk to who can empathise. Get to know as many people as possible, it will give you somewhere to stay all over the world, if travelling is something you're hoping to do throughout your life, and ultimately, the best memories are those that you share with other people.
What is the one thing you wish you'd known before you left?
That no matter how excited you are, and how much you think you know what's to come, you will feel homesick sometimes. You'll see your friends back in Sheffield getting on with life without you and doing fun things, while you're finding your feet in a wholly new setting, feeling like a fresher all over again. However, know that you shouldn't feel guilty about feeling homesick, that somehow you're ungrateful for not finding every second of this amazing opportunity to be brilliant. Moving to another country is tough, but Sheffield and your friends miss you, and will be waiting for you to come back.
Oh yeah, and that teabags are unbelievably expensive.
For students who will be arriving in Sheffield, what are your top recommendations for things to do and see in Sheffield?
For whatever kind of person you are, Sheffield will have something for you! However, what I'd recommend are; walks in the Peak District, a lovely national park which is cheap and easy to get to on the train or bus; a night at Pop-Tarts, think school disco crossed with a nightclub, always an enjoyable evening; join a society, its a great way to meet friends and there'll definitely be a society for you, whatever your interests; go to the pub, a staple of British culture, with West Street home to many of my personal favourites; attend a Sheffield United/Wednesday football match, whether or not you like sports, football has been a huge part of British life for over a century and I would consider it a cultural experience, tickets rarely rise above £30 either!