I chose this program because it is one of the most rewarding and well-organized study abroad programs offered at my college. Credits automatically transfer since Wroxton College is another campus that belongs to Fairleigh Dickinson University. Also, all of my friends have gone and told me nothing but positive things about their experience.
Alumni Spotlight: Leslie Rodrigues
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Leslie is a college student at Fairleigh Dickinson University in NJ. She is a Criminology and Psychology student who achieved her minor in British Studies abroad at Wroxton College in England.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
The University organized transportation from the airport, rooming and board, my class schedule, meals, transportation for trips, suggestions on what to pack, and so much more. They provide orientation before going to familiarize the students with what to expect when they are getting ready to leave. They were very well-organized and helpful. However, I had to find my own flights, which the cost was not included.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
One piece of advice is to take the academics very seriously.
The academics are very rigorous and stressful at times. They were much more difficult compared to my regular classes at Fairleigh Dickinson University. However, I felt like I learned more overseas than I did back home.
Remember that your mental health is very important so get plenty of rest and find ways to unwind during moments of stress.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
In this program, you will have classes from Monday to Thursday. Times depend on your own personal schedule. Breakfast is offered at 8 AM, followed by mid-morning tea time, lunch, mid-afternoon tea time, and dinner.
One day you will have tutorials instead of class, where you are given a topic and must present research and participate in a discussion in a group setting in front of your professor.
Trips are offered on Friday-Sunday, which are very rewarding and exciting.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
My biggest fear going abroad was developing very strong homesickness. This was the longest I have ever been away from my family. However, the program makes it a goal to keep the students constantly occupied, from classes to homework, to trips, and so much more. They also celebrate important holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, to make the students feel more at home.
What activities are there to do besides the trips, outside of the campus?
The campus is located close to the town of Banbury, England. There are shops, pubs, clubs, and so much more in the town. There is even a movie theatre.
On weekends, when my friends and I wanted to go out and destress and weren't on a trip, we would go downtown to Banbury and find something to do, whether it was going to a club or just watching a movie. It's also not a far away drive from Oxford, which has a student nightlife.