For my Beyond the Classroom Experience I spent a semester studying at the University of Chester in England. Going into this experience I was excited and nervous about experiencing culture shock. I figured that since there was no language barrier it wouldn’t feel very different from the United States, but I was wrong. Not only do English people use a lot of different phrases, but their systems and ways of living were unfamiliar. I took classes with English residents as well as joined extracuriculars affiliated with the school. The classes I took were basic gen-eds about the history and culture of England which helped me become more aware of our differences and similarities. It was difficult to meet friends in classes, so I joined the gardening club and football (soccer) team. These groups made me feel welcomed and and helped me build a life in Chester. 

My semester ended in late march, giving me two free months to travel. I spent this time visiting friends across Europe and doing some solo traveling as well. This part of my experience is where I learned the most. I felt myself quickly adjusting to new cultures, languages, transportation, and food. I mostly stayed in hostels where I was able to meet lots of other solo travelers who became close friends very quickly. I’m so excited to carry all of these new skills with me going forward!