England: Akrama Mohamed
Program: University of Westminster, Spring
Major: Political Science; Legal Studies
What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?
Through this incredible study abroad opportunity, I learned just how massive and diverse our world truly is. The experience allowed me the opportunity to travel abroad for the first time and live in a country that I had always dreamed of visiting. Besides academics, it provided me with countless opportunities to explore new places, meet people from different backgrounds, and gain a deeper appreciation for cultures and traditions across the globe.
Specifically, living in London for several months was incredibly impactful. As one of the most diverse cities in the world, London exposed me to a wide range of cultures, languages, and perspectives on a daily basis. Being able to experience numerous traditions and try incredible cuisines from around the world at different markets showed me that London offers an inclusive environment that allows anyone to find their community and feel at home. In all, this was an experience that only comes once, and proud to have partaken in it; it broadened my perspective, enhanced my independence, and gave me a greater appreciation for the diversity and beauty that exists beyond my own community.
How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?
The school system in the United Kingdom was most definitely different from taking classes at UW-Madison or from the United States education system in general. While both systems are academically rigorous, they differ significantly when it comes to coursework and grading systems. One of the biggest adjustments was understanding the UK grading scale, which was really confusing at first. Unlike in the United States, it is uncommon for students to receive grades above the 80% mark, and marks are generally awarded more moderately.
Also, at the University of Westminster, most modules are based on one or two major assignments, with maybe smaller formative tasks, rather than several graded assignments throughout the semester. This helped manage my course load and allowed me to spend more time producing better work. Additionally, the time period provided between the end of classes and assignment deadlines allowed students to submit assignments and have some time off, which I found the most helpful and also was very different compared to UW-Madison’s finals week.
Through this journey, I developed greater confidence, independence, and adaptability skills, while also developing meaningful memories and stories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
How will your experience benefit you in the future? How might it affect your future career or studies?
This experience, I’m certain, left a lasting impact on me. It challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and embrace new opportunities, experiences, and perspectives that I may never have considered before. Through this journey, I developed greater confidence, independence, and adaptability, while also creating meaningful memories and stories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Academically and professionally, studying abroad at the University of Westminster allowed me to explore areas of law at its law school that I am deeply passionate about. The courses I took provided valuable insight into the legal field, strengthened my interest in family law, and reinforced my commitment to pursuing a legal career. As a result of this experience, I am more certain about my goal of becoming a lawyer and excited to continue building the knowledge and skills needed to achieve that dream.
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
One of the most memorable experiences during my time abroad was having the opportunity to hike the famous Seven Sister Cliffs with a group of friends. This was a special location because it allowed us to escape the busy hustle of the main city. It offered astonishing views of green hills, white chalk cliffs, and breathtaking views of the English Channel, which allowed us to appreciate the country’s natural beauty in a way that we may not have before. Although this was a very difficult hike, spending a day hiking with friends and just taking in the landscape offered meaningful memories and a fun and somewhat painful experience. But overall an experience I will forever remember as one of the highlights of my study abroad journey.
What is a custom, food, or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward?
In London, one of my favorite aspects of the city was the incredible food seasoning or flavor. With people and cultures from all over the world, it seemed possible to find almost any type of cuisine in London. Among the many foods I tried, I especially enjoyed dishes seasoned with peri-peri, a spicy seasoning that originated from South Africa and became extremely popular throughout the United Kingdom. Some of my favorite places to eat were Pepe Piri Piri and Nando’s, both of which offer a wide range of meals with different levels of peri peri seasoning. Whether I was craving something mild or very spicy (like done in my tradition), these restaurants provided flavorful options that quickly became some of my favorite and comfort meals during my time abroad. But overall being able to explore London’s diverse cuisine options was an enjoyable way to experience the city’s multicultural aspect and also discover new flavors from around the world.