Liberal Arts Major: Economics
Other Major: Finance
Minor: International Business
Hometown: Broomall, PA
Experience Time: Spring 2020
Give us a brief summary of your experience.
Having never traveled outside of the United States or lived in a city, studying abroad in London at University College London was an amazing opportunity for me to step outside of my comfort zone, learn about another cultures, and experience city life. I was part of a direct enrollment program, so I completed Economics Courses with English students and students from all over the world. I had several weekends where I was able to travel around the UK, and even spend a week in Italy.
How did this experience impact you academically?
I had the opportunity to take rigorous economics courses and interesting cultural courses at UCL. My courses in London Architecture and the History of Madness were critical in receiving an elevated understanding and appreciation of the culture of London (and a lot of other areas in Europe). The economics courses I completed were very interesting, and I believe it was a good experience to learn through the UK higher education system that relies less on lecture and more on personal research. Additionally, I believe this international experience will assist me in graduate school admissions.
"My career goals now include a willingness and preference to pursue roles that have an international aspect to them."
How will this experience impact your career goals?
This international experience has allowed me to more seriously consider financial employment roles that involve international travel. I believe I am significantly more confident in my understanding of world cultures. This international experience was a major point in my interviews with PepsiCo, where I will be working this summer in their strategic finance department. My career goals now include a willingness and preference to pursue roles that have an international aspect to them.
How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?
The College of the Liberal Arts has provided immense support through semester scholarships, enrichment funding, and course evaluation. I certainly would not have been able to go abroad without the financial support of the College of the Liberal Arts. Additionally, the Economics course evaluator (and my former professor) was incredibly helpful in evaluating courses before and during my abroad trip.