Tyler Brown
About My Study Abroad Program
Major/Minor: History and Geography double major, Urban Studies and Planning minor
Program: King's College London (Exchange)
Location: London, UK
Email: tlb1593@live.unc.edu
Term: Spring 2019
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I had wanted to study abroad since high school because I have always enjoyed traveling and learning about other cultures. After I arrived at UNC, I became even more excited about eventually studying abroad after visiting Study Abroad Fairs and hearing about how studying abroad was beneficial to students in my majors. I ended up choosing KCL because it had a great reputation and courses that fit well with my interests and because London had many sites that I wanted to visit someday.
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned how to be much more flexible and spontaneous while studying abroad. Before studying abroad, I loved trying to plan things in advance, but I quickly discovered I would need quickly adapt to different situations while living in London. If I had not learned how to be more flexible and spontaneous I think I would have missed out on many different opportunities.
What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
Seeing Queen Elizabeth II and the Duchess of Cambridge officially open King’s College London’s new student union
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
Be open to trying to new things and meeting new people! Also, travel as much as you can but make sure to allow time to explore the city where you are studying!
Would you do it again?
YES
How were your classes abroad different than if you would have taken them at UNC?
History classes at KCL were much more independent than UNC. Attendance was not mandatory and participation is not a part of the grade, so it is up to you to go to class, participate in discussions, and ask questions. Most history classes are heavily focused on writing and the only grades you will receive are from the two papers you write. Instead of one professor who lectures every class, lectures were given by different experts each class. Lectures varied in quality throughout the semester, so I ended up really missing the consistent lectures I had at UNC.
Memories
