Students considering studying abroad were encouraged to look beyond academics and think about the personal, cultural and logistical sides of international study during an information session held Monday, April 13. 

The session explained how the London-based program combines coursework with cultural immersion while providing structured support to help students succeed abroad. 

Candice Nance, a faculty member leading the London program, said in an interview before the event that the experience is meant to go beyond traditional academics. 

“It’s not just academic,” Nance said. “You want to be out in the real world.” 

Nance said students often develop independence and a stronger sense of identity when they live in a new environment away from home. 

“Students start to think more about their identity when they have space away,” Nance said. 

She said emotional challenges are a normal part of the experience. 

“Homesickness is a big deal,” Nance said. “It’ll typically happen to most people.” 

Even with those challenges, Nance said the relationships students build can last long after the program ends. 

“You basically get some lifelong friends out of this,” Nance said. 

Information presented during the session showed that students receive support throughout the program, starting with orientation and continuing through the semester with access to advising, counseling and 24/7 services. 

The program is based in London’s Kensington borough and includes access to student facilities, organized activities and transportation throughout the city using an included transit pass. 

Paul Roscelli, an economics professor who has led study abroad programs, said prior to the session that those support systems help students adjust to a new environment. 

“They’ve got a well-designed program that sort of creates the safety net that keeps them okay until they settle in for themselves,” Roscelli said. 

Roscelli said students often grow more comfortable and confident the longer they stay abroad. “The longer they stay, the more they flourish,” Roscelli said. 

He said the experience also helps students build connections that go beyond what they would find in a typical classroom. 

“It builds community,” Roscelli said. “It serves people in a much deeper way than a classroom experience.” 

Roscelli said the impact of studying abroad can be significant. 

“It’s literally life-changing,” Roscelli said. “I don’t say that lightly.” 

Attendees asked several questions about scholarships, housing options and overall costs, showing both interest in the program and concern about how to make it work. 

Many of the questions focused on financial aid, including scholarships that could help reduce costs. Others focused on housing locations, commute times in London and how the program compares in price to other study abroad options. 

The program offers housing options that include homestays with local families or shared student residences. Transportation throughout London is included through a transit pass. 

Students may also be eligible for financial aid and scholarships, including the Gilman Scholarship, which can provide up to $5,000 toward study abroad expenses. 

“Students should think one or two semesters out,” Roscelli said. “And start looking at scholarships yesterday.” 

Nance said students should commit early so they can plan ahead. 

“Students who are thinking about it should jump on it and commit so they can plan ahead,” Nance said.