Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

One of the things I enjoyed about studying in the United Kingdom was the field trips. Most of them were part of my “British Culture” class. And although in the beginning, I was not very excited about the course, it became my favorite and most significant course. Now that I have finished it, I am glad the University of Brighton placed me in the class. First, as a Guatemalan living in England, I needed to understand their culture, traditions, and beliefs. This was because it was going to be useful for my whole semester and also as a matter of respect to the British. Secondly, I got to immerse myself in the English environment by going on a variety of field trips. 

My top four were our visit to Anne Boleyn’s (Henry VIII’s second wife) castle, going to the Royal Pavilion where George IV lived, getting to see the Hampton court (where Bridgerton was filmed), and getting to see the Harry Potter studios. I am completely happy with all of them because they all contributed to my understanding of England and its culture. Besides, I got to see the wizarding world which was a big part of my childhood.

I think that the one thing that made all these experiences extra special was that I did them with friends. Going to the castles with people who were just as new to British culture as I was very enjoyable because we were surprised by the same things. Going to the Harry Potter studies with friends who were as obsessed, if not more, than me with the saga was very meaningful. I can say I took advantage of as many field trips as I could and they will remain in my memory forever. More than remembering the places I saw, I will remember how happy I was to experience them with friends.

Genesis visiting the Royal Pavilion in Brighton with classmates:

Genesis at Harry Potter Studios: