When I committed to studying abroad, I thought I knew what I was getting myself into. I knew I would be completely uprooting my life—moving away from my friends and family, attending a new school with new professors, and trying to balance my academics and social life. Most of my nerves were about making friends or navigating London since it’s such a huge city.  

I never really thought about how my academic life would change. I assumed it would be like any other semester. I was too busy bracing myself for the many culture shocks I would experience during the transition abroad. However, one of the biggest culture shocks turned out to be the academics.  

I’m used to taking multiple classes a day, five days a week back at the University of Pittsburgh. Most of my classes in the United States had tons of readings and homework assignments due every week. Our final grades were a combination of these many homework assignments, projects, essays, and final exams. At CEA CAPA, most of my classes have a handful of assignments for the entire semester that are weighted higher. Although it’s intimidating to have so much of your grade relying on so few assignments, I’m surprised with how much I enjoy this style of learning. Although it was a difficult adjustment at first, I now find it easy to balance my workload and make time for friends. 

A view of London’s skyline 

One thing I love about my CEA CAPA classes is that not every class session is the same. I often have field studies where we go out into the city to explore a topic related to the class. It’s a nice break from the lecture-style classes. Field studies have become one of my favorite parts of my classes in London. I’ve had the opportunity to visit neighborhoods like Shoreditch, Soho, and Camden as part of my academic experience.  

After exploring the neighborhood of Camden during a field study, we ventured over to Camden Market! 

I’ve realized the value of hands-on learning

The field studies I’ve attended, particularly for my Postwar British Popular Culture class, have been one of the most enriching parts of my academic experience at CEA CAPA. As part of the curriculum, I’ve been able to participate in field studies such as our Abbey Road visit, walking around Shoreditch admiring the street art, and completing a scavenger hunt around Soho. When you’re in a global city like London, nothing compares to seeing the cultural artifacts that you’re studying in person. Venturing out into the city not only provides you with new knowledge about the neighborhoods, it also allows you to get to know your surroundings.  

A street art mural in Soho spotted on one of our field studies. 

I have better time management skills

Although it’s definitely taken some getting used to, I think I’ve finally struck a balance between my academics and my social life. Studying abroad presents so many opportunities to meet new people and get out into the city. However, I also have to remind myself that I’m here to study and take classes. Procrastinating on assignments that are weighted so heavily is not going to work.  

I work on a consistent schedule with my projects and assignments so that the due date doesn’t sneak up on me. In terms of my schedule, I only have class three days a week, so I prioritize my schoolwork during the weekdays. Especially if you’re planning on traveling to other places in Europe on the weekends, it’s important to prioritize schoolwork leading up to your trip. I’ve found that this works best for me and my academic experience! 

My view from the plane ride over to Prague 

I participate more in my classes

Back in the United States, I was a very quiet student. A typical class at the University of Pittsburgh could have anywhere between 10 and 200 students. My classes were usually around 30 students, and I never felt very comfortable participating in large group discussions. In my CEA CAPA classes, I had a smaller group of students in my classes. The professors and the other students have created a welcoming environment where I feel free to participate regularly. 

A cute bookshop in London located on a boat 

Reflecting on my academic experience at CEA CAPA, I’ve learned a lot about myself as a student. I’ve been able to grow and figure out what study style works for me. Through my field studies, time management, and class participation, I’ve learned so much both inside and outside of the classroom this semester.