Why everyone should study abroad once in a lifetime 

By Jaiti Pahwa 

Studying abroad has always sounded fascinating to the majority of students. I feel fortunate enough to be able to have one such experience in the UK. Here's wrting my first hand experience of a short lived period of summer school in the University of Arts London.I feel my time in London was like a lens to me to see the outside world with the naked eye. It was a month full of meeting people from different countries, experiencing local food, exploring the streets of London, and experiencing the magic of the countryside. Although my summer school was just for a month I feel I would have stayed a bit longer to engross myself completely in the magic of English culture. 

I made friends with people all over the world 

So study in abroad starts with a consulting agency, to be honest, and they connected me to people they know are going to the same university too. Every student who comes to the university is new to the college and in the country probably. The university and seniors organize prom nights and inductions wherein we get to meet other students and some ice-breaking activities help us make friends. These new people share their backgrounds, culture, and knowledge with fellow students and create a cosmopolitan environment. 

I learned so much about art, culture, and the British lifestyle 

London is a dream. It offers so much on your plate and one just can’t resist. After a week of my course, we were taken to the streets to explore the graffiti on the walls of London. Then to a design college where the students showed us the artwork they have been working on that semester. Every day started with something new to show us about the city. On weekends I and my friends would go to the countryside and explore new towns in London. Or some locals would call us to their homes to chill. Britishers are not easygoing people but once you get along with them they surely make up for good friends. 

Lessons were not just restricted to lectures and notes 

The teaching pattern was completely different from how we studied in India. In classes, our teacher used to explain the topic and then the floor would open to QnAs. We were given assignments to do after every lesson we learned and sometimes lessons were taught on the streets with real-life examples. This encouraged us to go deeply through the topic and enjoy it while we are doing our assignments. 

It has shaped my personality differently 

It was my first time abroad. It gave me so many life lessons that are still shaping my life every day. From making the breakfast myself to managing all the funds and expenses I was doing it all. Stepping out for the first time, got me nervous but as time passed I could see the difference between the old me and the new me. I was able to do all the chores, buy groceries, party, and yet save some money. Today I have the confidence to manage my house and expenses without any help and can lead a life of my own and on my own.