Summer School at University of Brighton

Why did you pick this program?

I chose this program because I was looking for a change of scenery in a country that didn't present a language barrier. England is central to a variety of neighboring countries that I could easily hop over to for a weekend visit. The program also offered a variety of exploration opportunities to sights I couldn't have afforded to visit if I hadn't participated in the program. I also found the academics to be stimulating while offering me unique insight I could implement back home in my own classroom. I value the inclusion and diversity that English classrooms offer.

What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?

I advise them to think about the benefits before the cost. There is so much more than the perk of studying in a different country, but rather what those studies and the beautiful country have to offer by way of living, culture, sites, education, and self. I end the persuasion by stating that I survived it as an untraditional student at nearly 30. While most study abroad programs are not created with me in mind, and I had an experience of a life time.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Spend wisely. Do not buy the first things you see - you will not use them, or even look at a majority of it again once home. Getting gifts for loved ones is nice, but just returning home safe with memories and thankfulness is enough. I made videos of myself doing things that I couldn't have done without my friends and families support and funds. I took pictures that I later had framed back home. By spending less on trinkets you can apply that money more usefully to endeavors and experiences. Go into it with an open mind and no expectations. Nothing will live up to what you built up in your mind. Don't let the disappointment spoil the splendor that awaits you.

What's your favorite story to tell about your time abroad?

In five hours time I managed to unpack, walk the grounds, stumbled onto the set of an Indian film company filming a movie in which I was made an extra, took the bus to city center where I joined friends for a drink and some karaoke. Half way through singing a song by Journey, I realized I was on the journey of a lifetime with nothing but possibilities in my future and great memories in my wake.

What was your one must-see sight while visiting England?

During a trip to London with my classmates and professors we were given time to explore for a few hours. I took off like a rocket directly for the Tower of London. I used my student ID to get a fair price and walked the tower until my knees were buckling. I wanted to be surrounded by all of the history and needed to see the crown jewels. The line for the jewels was vast and we were herded like cattle through the exhibits, but once you see them everything else melts away and you are transported to another time and place. Do not dare to take a picture though because the guards will be on you like color to a crayon. I made it back in time with the only story worth telling.

What is your favorite travel memory?

One of my favorite travel memories was when I took a cruise to Glacier Bay in Alaska after attending a study abroad conference in Vancouver. It was an amazing experience and one I shall never forget.

Which destination is most underrated? Conversely, which is most overrated?

I think Brighton is internationally underrated as a study abroad destination because most students look into studying in London. As the capital city of the UK, London is the obvious choice for students, not realizing that an hour on the train will take them into the diverse City of Brighton and Hove, the perfect place to study with the sea on one side and the rolling hills of the Sussex Downs on the other.

Brighton has a much more relaxed feeling compared to the hustle and bustle of the big city and students do not take long to feel comfortable in their new surroundings. Brighton has so much to offer with its seaside atmosphere, fish and chip restaurants, unique shopping, music, festivals, arts and theatre. Students fall in love with the city and often refer to it as their second home.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

Passion and belief in what you are doing. We have a dedicated team here at the University of Brighton who are passionate about study abroad and making the student experience the best it can be.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I have worked with study abroad students for over 20 years and travelled to many places within the United States and Canada. During which time I have developed partnerships and programs with several institutions from across the world.

Being part of the student’s journey is such a rewarding part of my role and supporting them through their semester abroad is key to their experience.

What unique qualities does your company possess?

The Study Abroad Office at the University of Brighton has a reputation for its outstanding care and support services for International study abroad students. The program also offers optional exciting field trips and tours organized and escorted by Study Abroad Office staff.

Describe a time when you felt especially proud to be part of your current team.

When I read through the student evaluations and students say that studying abroad at Brighton has been the best decision of their lives.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

Too many to choose a favorite but one that comes to mind is bumping into a student at a study abroad conference in the USA who was so inspired by her study abroad experience at Brighton she now works with disadvantaged students finding ways of supporting them to fulfill their ambition of studying abroad.