Before studying abroad, I often struggled to identify my own interests and sense of self, frequently mirroring the people around me. Moving to London — without knowing many people — allowed me to carve my own path, and I embraced it fully. What began as a semester abroad quickly became one of the most transformative experiences of my life.
Once I settled into the rhythm of the city, I began taking daily walks through London. For someone who once considered themselves “too lazy” to take walks, this shift surprised me. I quickly realized it had never been about laziness, but rather a lack of motivation in the life I had been living before. These walks became moments of peace and clarity, offering space to reflect amid the chaos of coursework, internships and city life. They taught me the importance of independence, balance and intentional self-care — lessons I will carry with me long after graduation.
Academically, I took Working in a Global Workplace (BPS 400) and Race and Gender in the Media (COM 346), courses that pushed me to think critically about global communication, workplace culture and media representation. These classes complemented my professional internship experience perfectly, especially while working as a Consumer & Lifestyle Public Relations Intern at FINN Partners UK. I loved my role so much that I expanded my hours to the maximum allowed by my visa, gaining hands-on experience in pitching, client research, media monitoring and campaign development. This internship confirmed my passion for public relations and strengthened my confidence in pursuing a global career in communications.
Outside of academics and work, my living situation helped shape my experience. I lived in a flat with three roommates — one friend from Syracuse and two students from another university — creating a supportive, social home environment. Together, we navigated cultural differences, shared late-night meals and built friendships that turned into lifelong connections.
One of my greatest highlights abroad was a weekend trip to Tromsø, Norway, where I experienced the Arctic Circle firsthand. From trying a reindeer hot dog and visiting the northernmost McDonald’s in the world to floating and jumping into the Arctic Ocean during a snowstorm, every moment pushed me beyond my comfort zone. This trip showed me how diverse human experiences can be and sparked a deep desire to continue traveling and exploring the world.
Throughout my fall semester abroad, I also balanced leadership roles as Public Relations and Marketing Director for Fetch Collective Magazine and Creative Director of Zeta Phi Eta, Syracuse University’s communications fraternity. This experience taught me the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing balance, all valuable experiences I would pass on to future study abroad students.
I left for London as a hesitant, dependent student, and I returned as a confident, motivated and deeply independent individual. Studying abroad did more than expand my worldview — it allowed me to truly find myself. For anyone even slightly considering studying abroad, my advice is simple: go. The growth, clarity, and perspective you gain are life-changing, and the memories will stay with you forever.
Riley Padron ’27
London Center, fall 2025
Public Relations