Loscher, Brooke

Brooke Loscher

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I chose to study abroad as I constantly seek to venture beyond my comfort zone to grow in all areas of my life, and studying abroad provided a perfect opportunity to do so. The UNC Burch in London Criminal Justice program immediately piqued my interest. After reading the description and seeing the courses, I knew this program was something I wanted to be a part of. Understanding and addressing mental health is becoming more prominent in society, and the Criminal Justice program was an excellent opportunity for me to acquire more information on mental health and how it is involved in the criminal justice system. As someone who cares deeply about ending the stigma surrounding mental health and is intrigued about the intricacies of healthcare systems and mental health law, I was excited to have the opportunity to acquire knowledge of these interests through taking the PUBA 201H and 202H “Making and Unmaking a Criminal” courses. Moreover, global-mindedness is a value I hold, and I was eager to delve into and learn more about the diverse approaches that countries employ in addressing justice and human rights. The legal system has long intrigued me, and as someone interested in going to law school, the Criminal Justice program was a perfect opportunity for me to explore this interest further.

What did you learn about yourself?
My experience in London taught me that I am capable of thriving in any environment I am placed in. When I first arrived, I was overwhelmed by everything unfamiliar, from adjusting to the bustling city to swapping familiar stores like Target for Tescos. The initial days were challenging—I was nervous, homesick, and constantly reassuring myself that six weeks would pass quickly, and I would be back in the comfort of home. Though as each day went by, I began to adapt. London started to feel less foreign and more like a second home. I learned to navigate the complexities of the city, mastering the Tube and even finding my way to Winston House without the help of Google Maps. By the end of my stay, I realized that stepping outside my comfort zone had given me the resilience and confidence to handle new environments and challenges. This experience showed me that even when a situation feels daunting, I have the ability to adapt, grow, and ultimately thrive.

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories was sitting in on a trial at the Central Criminal Court. As someone considering going to law school after undergrad, I found it a surreal experience to see the legal system in action firsthand. This experience was my first time in a courtroom, and the entire time I was on the edge of my seat listening to the defendant and prosecutor. Having the opportunity to be in the courtroom after spending weeks learning about the criminal justice system allowed me to explore my curiosity about pursuing a career in law.

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
My advice for future students who may face uncertainties while abroad is to embrace the unknown with an open mind. Never shy away from stepping outside your comfort zone; this is where the most meaningful growth happens. Embrace the changes and challenges as they come your way. Seize the opportunity to explore, learn, and immerse yourself in the local culture, even if it feels intimidating at first. The experiences you gain will not only enrich your time abroad but will be some of the most rewarding moments of your life.

How do you identify?
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Memories