Only five percent of American university students choose to study abroad. 154 of them are spending their fall semester at Florida State University’s (FSU) London Study Centre. Every one of 99 Great Russell Street’s new tenants had a reason for dipping their feet across the pond for the rest of 2022. The question is simply…
Her Campus: Why FSU London?
Emma N., senior, Broad Curriculum Program: I wanted to experience a culture other than my own in an independent way before I settle down, get married, and have children.
Ethan, freshman, First Year Abroad: I chose London because of my love of soccer — I mean, football. Also, being able to speak English makes the transition into college a lot easier.
Emma P., sophomore, Broad Curriculum Program: My end goal has always been to study in France. I wanted to start studying abroad in a country where I was more comfortable with the language. London is very much my middle ground. I’m getting used to systems that aren’t American, navigating being away from my family, and finding new constants.
Sadie, freshman, First Year Abroad: The out-of-state tuition waiver was very appealing. Out-of-state students who study abroad for their first three semesters (fall, spring, and summer) get to pay the in-state tuition rate for their next three years at FSU. I picked London specifically because I like the city’s vibe.
Chase, senior, Broad Curriculum Program: I actually go to Florida Atlantic University. My mom did the FSU Florence study abroad program during her undergrad years. I had no desire to go to Italy; I wanted to go to the United Kingdom. My mom said she had a great time studying abroad through FSU, so I thought, “Why not?”
Keelyn, freshman, First Year Abroad: I wanted to get out of Florida. I wanted to be surrounded by different weather and different people for as long as possible. My advisor and I decided the London program fit best with my major. Since I’m here for a full year, I’m glad I picked a place that I can easily make feel like home.
Catherine, junior, Broad Curriculum Program: I couldn’t get a visa in time to go to FSU’s Italian [study abroad] location. I’ve already been to the Valencia location, and the Panama location seemed a little too far out for me, so I stuck with London.
Sasha, junior, Broad Curriculum Program: FSU’s other programs didn’t offer the classes I needed. Also, Harry Potter. Enough said.
Vivien, senior, Broad Curriculum Program: London is a step in my travel journey. There’s no language barrier, which allows me to travel independently and explore the area. It’s so easy to try new things. The culture and architecture here are unlike any other.
Buck, freshman, First Semester Abroad: Compared to FSU’s other abroad options, I wouldn’t have to learn a new language. I didn’t necessarily want to study abroad my first year, but it was the only way I got into the school.
Connor, sophomore, Broad Curriculum Program: I didn’t have a great first year at FSU. I wanted some space from my friend group and was tired of hearing about Florida’s political problems. I chose London specifically because I heard it’s great for making new friends.
Aryan, freshman, First Semester Abroad: I have a lot of family here. Plus, it’s really close to a lot of European countries I want to travel to.
Victoria, senior, Broad Curriculum Program: London has always been a city that I’ve romanticized in my mind. I love traveling. I had the opportunity to come here, so I thought, “Let’s go meet new people.” I’ve really enjoyed it so far.
Everyone’s “why” may be different, but their goal is the same: to take advantage of the special kind of independence afforded to their college years. Moving to a new country completely on your own takes courage. When better to brave the adventure than during an era of self-exploration?
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