WHY DID YOU CHOOSE SWANSEA UNIVERSITY AS YOUR STUDY ABROAD PLACEMENT?
I chose Swansea University because of the unique internship program that it provided through the Department of Political and Cultural Studies. I knew that choosing this study abroad placement would provide a great experience to learn about politics in the UK/EU both in the classroom and during an internship placement.
WHAT WERE THE MAIN HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR TIME STUDYING IN SWANSEA?
I loved my experience studying at Swansea University. My two favorite things about studying in Swansea were the small classroom sizes, which allowed for plenty of classroom discussion, and my internship, which related directly to what we learning in class. Studying politics and interning for an AM Assembly member, especially with the current political climate, was especially exciting.
WHAT WERE THE MAIN CHALLENGES?
I think the biggest challenge was adapting to living in a new place, but the welcoming environment in Swansea made the transition a lot easier!
DID YOU ENCORPORATE ANY TRAVELLING INTO YOUR STAY? IF SO, WHERE DID YOU GO?
I did travel while studying at Swansea University. I went on one of the school sponsored trips to Amsterdam, which was a lot of fun! I also spent some time in London, Bath, Spain, France, Scotland, Italy and the Republic of Ireland. During the weekends I got to explore Wales a little bit and the highlights included Brecon Beacons National Park and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park! Overall, traveling during my days off was a really fun experience.
WOULD YOU RECOMMEND STUDYING AT SWANSEA UNIVERSITY? IF SO, WHY?
I would definitely recommend studying at Swansea University, I really enjoyed my experience! I go to a large university in Texas located in a big urban city. I loved living in Swansea because it was smaller, welcoming and a nice change of pace. I was about five minutes from the beach which was really nice. Also, everyone was so welcoming and kind. My professor was awesome and I learned a lot in my classes. I will always remember my time in Swansea with nothing but fond memories!
WHAT WERE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR INTERNSHIP (if applicable)?
The politician I was placed with was very nice and incredibly hardworking. I learned a lot from her and the politics within both Wales and the UK. I really enjoyed experiencing what everyday life was for her. I got to attend meetings, speeches, party luncheons and participate in community outreach (to name just a few). Overall, a really positive experience!
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE IMPROVED IN THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
I received my CAS letter a little late which made my VISA application process a bit delayed, but I think that this might have been just a mix up with my application.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE IMPROVED WHILE STUDYING IN SWANSEA?
N/A I had a really positive experience.
DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER COMMENTS / FEEDBACK?
N/A
Testimonial:
My time in Swansea was a really positive and fun experience. The study abroad staff, residential staff and my professor were super accommodating and welcoming. They helped make my transition to living in Swansea a lot easier. My courses were very interesting and the small class size enabled great classroom discussions. Furthermore, I learned a lot from the opportunity to intern with a Welsh Assembly Member. Overall, the current political climate made studying politics in the UK incredibly interesting. Living within walking distance from the beach was really nice too! Overall, I had a really great time and I am definitely glad that I picked Swansea University for my study abroad experience!