Name: Yuelin Wang ’25
Major: Architecture
Semester Abroad: Spring 2023
What advice would you give to a student studying abroad? Always be curious and always be ready to experience new things. The outside world is very different from the “world” within the US boundary. Try to blend in with the locals to get a different perspective from the tourist point of view. Enjoy London if you are going there because London is an infinite city.
Contact: ywang21@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Race & Ethnicity, Cultural Immersion, First time abroad, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure
Name: Elena Cooper ‘25
Major: International Relations and Psychology
Semester abroad: Fall 2023 (Summer 2023: Middle East Policy and Security Studies)
What was your most valuable experience abroad? My most valuable experience in London was invariably my trip to Lockerbie, Scotland to discuss the tragedy of the 1988 Pan Am Flight 103 bombing with some of its victims and their families. I have never experienced a more beautiful moment of connection and grief than I did that weekend, and I have never felt prouder to be a Syracuse student. We are forever tied to the families of Lockerbie, and I was honored to hear their stories firsthand and to give them reassurance that we were not allowing the event to be forgotten. It is so important to connect with locals wherever you go abroad; however, I feel particularly blessed to have shared in commemoration and in mourning with such incredible people. Not every moment abroad must be happy to be beautiful, and that weekend certainly was.
Contact: ecoope04@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Allergies & dietary needs, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Financing study away, First time abroad, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Health, safety, and support, LGBTQ+, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Selecting a program option
Name: Micaiah John ’25
Major: Acting Major, Disability Studies Minor
Semester abroad: Fall 2023
What advice would you give to a student studying abroad? Get to know the staff and faculty at your Syracuse center! They welcome new students to these countries every semester and have the tools and resources to help you through every part of your semester. If you do the London semester GO ON EVERY TRIP! If you are worried about travel around the UK and Europe, going on trips organized by Syracuse London is a great way to do that in a low-stakes environment. Also, PLEASE take time for rest and reflection throughout your time abroad. It gets busy!
Contact: mijohn@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Disability resources, Financing study away, First time abroad, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, LGBTQ+, Race & Ethnicity
Name: Dani Saril ’25
Major: Musical Theater, Minor: Public Communications
Semester abroad: Fall 2023
What was your most unforgettable experience abroad? My time in London was truly transformative, but the pinnacle of this experience was performing on the incredible stage that is Shakespeare’s Globe. During my time abroad, I was delved into the exploration of my voice, movement, and use of text. Throughout the semester, we prepared a shortened version of Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’. Our work drew inspiration from the lessons and activities we explored in class together as an ensemble. When the day of the showcase came around, I felt more prepared than ever to navigate the unique stage using the efforts I had prepared, and comfortable commanding space in front of an audience. Studying at The Globe was the opportunity of a lifetime, and I’ll cherish it for the rest of my life.
Contact: dfsaril@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Culture shock / Homesickness, First time abroad, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Preparing for departure, Selecting a program option
Name: Alex Shaffer ’25
Major: Sociology, minors in Psychology, Political Science and Women and Gender Studies
Semester abroad: Fall 2023
What advice would you give to a student studying abroad? I would tell a student to not worry as much as they are, and to expect the unexpected. Also, to just do it, do not think too much about plans if you have an idea just do it. I would also give monetary tips such as looking into a railcard and membership cards for stores in the UK to save as much money as possible.
Contact: arshaffe@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: LGBTQ+, Allergies & dietary needs, Culture shock / Homesickness, Disability resources, Financing study away, First time abroad, Health, safety, and support
Name: Gillian Stoltz ’25
Major: Musical Theatre
Semester abroad: Fall 2023
What was your most unforgettable experience abroad? Performing onstage at Shakespeare’s Globe — This was a dream of mine since I had first heard about Syracuse’s Abroad program in Drama and was a big part of why I chose Syracuse! Shakespeare’s Globe is one of the most well-known and sacred theatre spaces to actors everywhere, and to be able to see theatre there, learn from its actors, and finish with performing on the stage itself is a memory I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Contact: gestoltz@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Allergies & dietary needs, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Disability resources, First time abroad, Health, safety, and support, Preparing for departure, Selecting a program option
Name: Yilin Zhong ’25
Major: Architecture
Semester abroad: Fall 2023
What was your most unforgettable experience abroad? There were so many wonderful experiences I had in the UK. In the architecture school’s trip to Scotland, I saw the Edinburgh old town. In my own trip to Seven sister Cliff, I saw the shinning white cliff covered in waving green fields. In London, so many art institutions and museums are free to visit and have fantastic Friday Late events, while those flee markets like the Jubilee market or Portobello market full with vintages and strange but delicate goods. Among all these experience, the most valuable for me were those field trips I had in history class & survey class. Instead of sitting inside a classroom, in London, students have chances to see the history of London in their own eyes. I really enjoyed seeing the ancient Roman wall remains surrounded by Brutalism concrete High rises in Barbican, or wandering around the Chiswick Garden.
Contact: yizhong@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Selecting a program option, Adjusting to a foreign language, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, First time abroad, Health, safety, and support, Preparing for departure, Race & Ethnicity
Name: Ella Brink ’25
Major: Computer Science
Semester abroad: Spring 2024
What was your most unforgettable experience abroad? Apply for the internship program!! genuinely the best part of my abroad experience. My internship was so special because I felt so immersed in London. Being able to feel valued in a professional space and actively contribute to making positive change in a field I care about was second to none; I learned so much about London work culture and really reinvented my personal
Contact: embrink@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Financing study away, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Health, safety, and support, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Religious life, Selecting a program option
Name: Margaret Brown ’26
Major: Management and Public Relations
Semester Abroad: Spring 2024
What was your most memorable experience abroad? Undoubtedly, the most valuable aspect of my study abroad experience was the opportunity to accomplish so much and witness the richness of European cultures firsthand. Syracuse University’s dedication to providing such comprehensive programming enabled me to make the most of my time abroad and fostered a lifelong appreciation for global perspectives. It’s an experience I will always cherish and one that has undoubtedly shaped me into a more culturally aware and globally minded individual.
Contact: mbrown65@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Allergies & dietary needs, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness
Financing study away, First time abroad, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Health, safety, and support, LGBTQ+, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Race & Ethnicity, Religious life, Selecting a program option
Name: Yida Li ’26
Major: Architecture
Semester Abroad: Spring 2024
What was your most memorable experience abroad? The “Sustainability on Trial: Environmental Justice in Northern Europe” seminar was the starting point of my SU London journey. The seminar explores the concepts of sustainability and environmental justice within the vibrant and ecologically diverse landscapes of Scandinavia. Through intensive field studies and academic reflections, students delve into the dynamic interplay between human activities and natural systems, guided by Dr. Rebecca L. Farnum, a renowned environmental activist-academic. I consider this adventure into Earth’s very northern territories a life-changing experience. Deep within the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland, we woke up in the eternal twilight of the arctic night and traversed the seemingly ever-frozen tundra as we learn the lifestyle of the indigenous Sámi people. From reindeer herding, ice fishing, aurora hunting, to learning from the Sámi Council about the injustice the indigenous people faced, I was deeply inspired by the beauty and sublime of nature, as well as the resilience of the Sámi community that allowed them to thrive in the seemingly extraterrestrial land of the Arctic.
Contact: yli279@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Adjusting to a foreign language, Cultural Immersion, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Race & Ethnicity
Name: Joshua Spodek ’25
Major: History, Social Studies Education
Semester Abroad: Spring 2024
What was your most memorable experience abroad? My most valuable experience while abroad in London was my weekly volunteer shift at Refettorio Felix, a community center that provides a 3-course lunch service Monday through Friday. Going into the semester, I knew that I wanted to volunteer regularly because I would not be taking any education courses in London, meaning that if I did not volunteer, it would be difficult for me to have experiences working with people while abroad. Fortunately, SU London’s Internship Director, Charlie Loynes, connected me to Refettorio Felix through SU’s extensive alumni network. And, unlike other service organizations I have volunteered with in the past, Refettorio Felix employs a unique approach to helping the local community.
Contact: jsspodek@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Financing study away, First time abroad, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Religious life, Selecting a program option
Name: Nicholas Robbins ’25
Major: Public Relations, Information Management and Technology (Minor)
Semester Abroad: Spring 2024
What was your most valuable experience abroad? My most valuable experience in my host country was undoubtedly exploring London, through both personal adventures and academic trips. I loved visiting museums, towns, and exhibits, which my professors often encouraged. It gave me deeper insights into London’s culture and history and pushed me out of my comfort zone to explore events and places I might not have discovered on my own, such as Queer Britain, the V&A, and Tate Britain. Additionally, venturing out to various restaurants and bars on my own provided a richer understanding of London’s diverse society. Trying new foods and meeting people from different backgrounds was a highlight of my semester abroad without a doubt.
Contact: nrobbins@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Financing study away, First time abroad, Preparing for departure
Name: Annie Xu ’25
Major: Finance
Semester Abroad: Spring 2024
What was your most valuable experience abroad? One of my most unforgettable experiences in London is the easy accessibility to transportation and being able to do many day trips. Sometimes, my roommates and I would have different plans or won’t be free during the same time, so knowing that I could hop onto the train for Oxford, Cambridge, and Canterbury, which really excites me and allow me to really make use of my time here.
Contact: axu112@syr.edu
Name: Victoria Chen ‘26
Major: Finance & Television, Radio, and Film
Semester Abroad: Fall 2024
What would you tell a student who is undecided about studying abroad? I was undecided about going abroad too. I remember telling myself in freshman year “I’m never going to go abroad”, yetttt here I am. When in college, you want to take advantage of all the opportunities in front of you. This is an important opportunity because you are given the chance to be a student in a country you’ve never been in, live like a local in this new country, and even work like the local city folk (if you choose to have an internship). You become a local. You become the culture. It will be a new part of your identity. Studying abroad isn’t just doing school in a different country, it’s a chance to discover who you are.
Contact: vychen@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Cultural Immersion, First time abroad, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Preparing for departure, Race & Ethnicity, Selecting a program option
Name: Margaux Girard ‘26
Major: Finance and International Relations, Psychology minor
Semester Abroad: Fall 2024
What was your most valuable experience abroad? My most valuable experience was the connections I made with people. I did not know anyone going abroad with me, so it was a nerve-wracking experience. However, I quickly made the most valuable friendships I have ever had. Seeing the world with new people, through fresh eyes, is the most valuable experience you can get. Another experience would be going to shows in the west end, as well as going to an arsenal game. It was the best way to immerse myself into the culture and experience events I would not be able to otherwise.
Contact: magirard@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Allergies & dietary needs, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Financing study away, Health, safety, and support, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Selecting a program option
Name: Claire Patin ‘26
Major: Sport Analytics, Minors: Economics, and Information Management and Technology
Semester Abroad: Fall 2024
What advice would you give to a student studying abroad? I would advise that a student does some research and take advantage of the course offerings. It is important for students to be aware of the required classes they need to take, but abroad also offers so many unique classes that you can’t get at home campus. They help you understand the city and culture you’re living in better and may be different from classes they have taken before. I had this experience with my London Museums class; nowhere else could I go to a new museum every week for class to learn. I would advise that if a student has the space in their schedule, they should take these classes that they aren’t necessarily used to or know much about because it is so cool and different from what main campus offers.
Contact: cpatin@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Health, safety, and support, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Selecting a program option
Name: Madeleine Brousseau ’26
Major: Television, Radio & Film
Semester Abroad: Fall 2024
What was your most valuable experience abroad? The most valuable experience was the entirety of my time in my home country. Not only was I living on my own in a big city for the first time, I also met incredible people, took unforgettable classes, and had a lovely internship opportunity. All of these factors made my experience abroad life changing as I was able to balance so many new habitats and communities while still maintaining strong grades and a social life. I learned so much about myself abroad, I feel like a completely different person now that I’m back, stronger and more confident in my abilities. I was also lucky to live in a city so rich with culture and history, I never felt bored my time abroad. I was also lucky to have incredibly students in my program and find friends that I know I’ll have forever and experience this once in a lifetime opportunity with.
Contact: mjbrouss@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family
Name: Alani Henderson ’26
Major: Political Science and Law, Society, and Policy
Semester Abroad: Fall 2024
What was your most valuable experience abroad? My most valuable and unforgettable experience in London would definitely be our program’s trip to Lockerbie, Scotland. Living in Syracuse all my life, I have consistently heard about Pan Am Flight 103 and the opportunity to visit Lockerbie while abroad was a truly unmatchable experience. I was able to meet with people from Lockerbie and get first hand account from people who were there when the plane went down. The town is beautiful and so loving, you can really see how much they value the connection with Syracuse University which really allowed me to appreciate the connection Syracuse has with Lockerbie so much more.
Contact: ahende06@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family, Allergies & dietary needs, Cultural Immersion, Culture shock / Homesickness, Disability resources, Financing study away, First time abroad, Fitting study abroad into your home campus experience, Health, safety, and support, Meeting locals, Preparing for departure, Race & Ethnicity, Religious life, Selecting a program option
Name: Jordan Kramer ’26
Major: Writing and Rhetoric
Semester Abroad: Fall 2024
What was your most valuable experience abroad? While studying in London, one of my most valuable experiences was the opportunity to be a part of the internship program. Through this internship program, I got to learn about the global workplace firsthand and make professional industry connections that I plan to keep throughout my career. This overall experience not only gave me a fantastic work experience but also introduced me to a new industry and potential career path. I became immersed in this field very quickly due to the fast-paced environment and got to learn so many new skills that I continue to utilize. The responsibility of managing an internship while also being a student abroad strengthened my independence and allowed me to grow as a young adult. Having an internship throughout my time in London profoundly enhanced my study abroad experience as I got to experience the city as both a student and a professional, giving me a deeper appreciation and love for the place.
Contact: jkrame07@syr.edu
Topics I’m comfortable discussing: Staying in touch with friends & family