Our journey began with Elizabeth's search for a perfect university. Together, we went through the process of selecting the right institution and preparing for the UK's higher education system. Watching Elizabeth flourish at the desired City University of London was truly gratifying. She embraced every challenge and opportunity that came her way, fully immersing herself in one of the world's most diverse and dynamic academic environments.
Recently, our educational odyssey took an exciting turn as we headed on a tour of prestigious American universities. From the bustling streets of New York City to the historic campuses of Boston, we explored institutions like NYU, Columbia, Harvard, Boston University, and Northeastern Uniersity.
Now, as Elizabeth immerses herself in a summer program at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. (Niche ranked it as the number one college for political science and international relations in the US in 2024), I'm excited to share her reflections on this international educational journey. Her story beautifully illustrates the transformative power of global education and underscores the importance of mentorship in navigating these life-altering experiences.
What differences have you noticed in the teaching styles and academic expectations between the UK and the USA?
In the USA there is a higher demand for participation, while in London, it is not required as much. In the UK, the emphasis is more on academic writing and research. The pressure in the UK comes from having a single, high-stakes exam at the end of the academic year that determines your entire grade. In contrast, in the USA, your grade is determined by multiple factors, including participation, assignments, and exams. I prefer the American system as it provides a more comprehensive assessment of my abilities and progress throughout the course.
How do social interactions and networking opportunities differ between the two countries?
Both countries have a vibrant array of events happening all the time, but I've noticed that the USA places a greater emphasis on networking. In the USA, there are numerous structured opportunities to connect students with industry professionals, making networking a more integral part of the academic experience. In London, on the other hand, access to networking often feels more like a reward you have to earn. While there are plenty of events, the emphasis on building industry connections isn't as pronounced, and students may need to take more initiative to find and capitalize on these opportunities.
In what ways have you grown personally and academically during your time in London?
London has completely changed me as a person. I arrived there as a scared 19-year-old, and I'll be leaving in a year as a 22-year-old with a completely different mindset, new friends, refined life goals, and a newfound confidence. London has helped me figure out who I am as a person and where I want to lead my life. Academically, I've improved my English, honed my academic writing and research skills, and gained a higher understanding of various subjects. The experience has been transformative in every sense.
How do you think your experiences in the UK and the USA have shaped your perspective on your field of study?
My experiences in both the UK and the USA have significantly shaped my perspective on my field of study. Living in London, a city known for its international diversity, sparked my interest in migration, documentation, and the benefits countries gain from immigrants. This exposure led me to develop a keen interest in law, particularly in areas related to immigration. My time in London has transformed me into a more serious and focused individual, helping me discover my purpose. I am now committed to pursuing a career in law in the USA, where I believe I can make a meaningful impact.
How have you adapted to the different educational systems and cultures in the UK and the USA?
Adaptation comes with time; humans have a unique ability to adjust to new environments. For me, a key strategy was to seek out friendships with locals in both countries. Building friendships with people from the UK and the USA helped me understand their cultures and educational systems more deeply. This approach enabled me to navigate differences in learning styles, academic expectations, and cultural norms effectively. By immersing myself in local communities, I gained valuable insights that facilitated my adaptation and enriched my overall experience in both educational settings.
How has your summer program at Georgetown University been so far?
The month-long program at Georgetown has been incredibly insightful. I've had the opportunity to meet new people and learn new things, which has been very valuable. Adapting to Washington's notoriously hot and humid weather at this time of year was a unique experience, but it added to the authenticity of my time here. Most importantly, I got the American university experience I always wanted. Living with Georgetown students and fully immersing myself in campus life made me feel like one of them, which was truly rewarding.
What strategies have you used to integrate into City University and Georgetown's academic and social communities?
Networking has been my primary strategy. From the first day of my freshman year at City University in London, I proactively reached out to people by knocking on every door in my dormitory to introduce myself. This approach helped me meet new friends and quickly integrate into the social scene. Similarly, at Georgetown, I would stroll around campus and initiate conversations with fellow students. Additionally, I found it incredibly useful to use social media to connect with people before arriving at each school. Sending emails or texts in advance allowed me to establish connections early, making the transition into both academic and social communities smoother and more enjoyable.
What courses at Georgetown have you found most enriching and why?
I took International Relations as a course because I've always been interested in that area. Coming from a very international family, I speak five languages fluently and have had the opportunity to travel extensively and make friends all over the world. This background has fueled my passion for understanding global dynamics and cross-cultural interactions. The course at Georgetown provided me with a deeper understanding of these subjects, enriched by the diverse perspectives and experiences of my classmates and professors.
How does the academic environment at Georgetown compare to what you’ve experienced in London?
I love London because its international atmosphere creates a slightly less stressful academic environment. In London, there is a sense of openness and acceptance, where no one is judging your performance based on class participation and speaking up. In contrast, at Georgetown, the environment feels more intense, as many students are from the USA and there's a higher emphasis on vocal participation. This adds a layer of pressure, not just in terms of language but also in confidently expressing your opinions. The experience at Georgetown has pushed me to adapt and become more assertive, which has been a valuable growth opportunity.
What extracurricular activities have you participated in at City University and Georgetown, and how have they contributed to your development?
I believe in maximizing my time through active participation in extracurricular activities for networking, skill development, and enhancing my CV. At the City University of London, I served as a school ambassador, conducting tours, managing social media content, and representing my class and school assembly. These roles allowed me to engage directly with students and faculty, influencing school policies and fostering leadership skills. Additionally, I'm involved in several societies including the Media Society, Ukrainian Society, and Law Society, where I contribute actively and volunteer for school events. At Georgetown University, I briefly joined a social media club, creating content to further develop my skills in digital communication and outreach. These experiences have collectively enriched my personal and professional growth, providing diverse opportunities for learning, leadership, and community engagement.
What are your long-term career goals, and how do you see your education in the USA helping you achieve them?
As mentioned before, I want to pursue a career in law, particularly in international politics. This is something I discovered over time, and I am passionate about making a difference in this field. I would love to continue my education and career in the USA because, as a woman in this century, I am mindful of balancing my professional and personal aspirations. I aim to complete my degrees as soon as possible to start my career, and the USA's educational system is well-suited for this fast-tracked approach. This will allow me to achieve my career goals while also planning for a future family, making the USA the perfect place for my career and life.
How do you plan to leverage your experiences from both the UK and the USA in your future endeavors?
All of my life experiences, especially the early exposure to two different countries, have taught me invaluable lessons. The foremost among these are independence, confidence, and patience. I've learned that perseverance is key; with determination and a clear goal in mind, things will eventually fall into place. These qualities, honed through my experiences in both the UK and the USA, will serve as a solid foundation for my future endeavors. I plan to leverage this global perspective and resilience in pursuing my career goals, contributing positively to my chosen field, and navigating the complexities of international relations and law with insight and determination.
Earlier this year in February, we traveled to the U.S. and visited leading universities in New York and Massachusetts. Now that you are in Washington, D.C., and have recently experienced other cities and states of the USA, how would you compare these different locations in terms of student lifestyle and experience?
Visiting universities in person and experiencing the vibe of different cities and states is crucial in determining where you want to live and study. I found New York to be incredibly vibrant and dynamic—there's always something happening, much like London. Boston, on the other hand, has a more European charm and a quieter pace, with prestigious universities that exude a sense of tradition and excellence. In contrast, Washington, D.C., despite being the capital, can feel quieter and less eventful compared to New York and even London. However, Georgetown University stands out as the most picturesque and renowned area within Washington, D.C., offering a unique blend of historical charm and academic prestige. Each city offers a distinct student lifestyle and experience, catering to different preferences and priorities.
What resources or support systems have been most helpful to you in your journey as an international student?
I relied heavily on thorough research and visiting potential schools when possible. However, navigating the journey as an international student wouldn't have been possible without the guidance and support of my educational advisor. You have assisted me throughout this journey and continue to support me. I am deeply grateful for this help and would highly recommend seeking guidance when choosing a school that will shape your future.
Is there any other message you'd like to convey to other international students considering studying abroad?
If it's within your means, follow your heart and pursue your dreams. Education is incredibly important and where you choose to study will profoundly impact your personal growth and future. Take your time to thoroughly research your options, reach out to current students for insights, and don't hesitate to leap to make your dreams a reality.
