Howdy y’all!! (as we say in my home state of Texas). My name is Loren Querickiol and I am a 2nd year International Media and Communication Studies student. I’m from the suburbs north of Dallas, Texas, and I serve as the AmeriCan society’s Publicity/Communications Officer.
1. Why did you choose to study abroad?
I really value the priorities of universities outside the US. In my personal opinion, the US and UK have very similar academic standards but I actually spend much less in the long run by spending 3 years in uni here than 4 in a US university.
Also, the opportunity to travel and the potential for personal betterment through a wider cultural immersion has tapped into a potential I never knew I had.
2. Why did you pick Nottingham in particular?
Essentially, the website was pretty; their social media accounts were active, student reception seemed fairly positive, the city seemed trendy and manageable, and the diversity was on par with my standards from high school.
I particularly liked their active Students’ Union just because it was something I knew I’d get involved in early on, as well as the size/location of Nottingham compared to my other assurance choices.
3. What was the application process like for UK universities? How was it different to the US?
I went through UCAS like everyone else! But it was a MISERABLE experience. I just didn’t understand the lingo – like “qualifications” and “A-levels” – and the timing for submit UCAS applications and receiving offers is much later than US norms.
Everyone in my year basically knew what university they’d be going to November of our senior year and I was just beginning my application. However, it was loads more streamlined than the US application process. Over there, each university has their own profile/application for you to fill out, a lot more personal statements (sometimes with totally obscene prompts), and so this costs more money (again, very American.)
So I appreciated the fact I could apply to 5 unis through UCAS for less than £35, whereas a Common App could be sent to up to 20 schools but cost $50-75 for each school you apply to! Extortionate.
4. What do you think the main difference is studying in the UK versus US?
I find the way people network is a huge difference. In America, I feel like I’d exchange social media handles with my entire dorm or lecture within 5 minutes. Here in the UK, it feels a little more closed off where I could see the same faces in seminars for 3 years and never learn their name.
However, I think that’s what makes the interaction more organic. While I have more friends in the US, I have closer friends in the UK. I’d take quality over quantity anytime.
5. What do you miss most about home when you’re studying abroad? Is there anything you always bring here with you?
I always miss my family, but especially my sister. She’s 4 years old and easily my best friend, and I’m heartbroken I’m missing the main fun years of her childhood.
While it’s difficult to bring her to uni with me, I’m always one to ensure I’m well stocked on toiletries (Bath & Body Works!!!) and American snacks (peanut butter m&ms, goldfish, pancake mix, and Swiss Miss).
6. What about things you bring back to the US over the holidays?
CADBURY CHOCOLATE FINGERS. JAFFA CAKES. POPPING CANDY CHOCOLATE BARS. It’s a bit strange how I now have a niche group of friends back in Texas literally obsessed with British chocolate, but not surprising considering your chocolate is much better here.
7. Have you found yourself picking up any UK slang?
Now I say things like “food shop” instead of “grocery store” and “lift” instead of “elevator”. I’ve definitely noticed my increased use of words like “fairly”, “lad”, or “that’s a bit odd/grim/sick” making their way into my vocabulary. But I‘m mainly appreciative that being in England has reduced my use of “like” between every other word!
My family notice the differences but don’t judge me for it. It’s my American friends however who really call me out for the changes in my inflections and lack of charming Texan twang.
8. Have you managed to see other areas of the UK whilst studying?
YES! I’ve been to London, Rochester, and Cambridge. But I’ve been keener to travel to other neighboring countries. So far I’ve been to Poland, Spain, Wales, Portugal, Italy, and Switzerland and I’m still in my 2nd year!
Hopefully the list continues to grow before I graduate.
Images writer’s own