Jordan Malak
About My Study Abroad Program
Major/Minor: Geography Major
Program: UNC International Sports Management in London
Location: London, England
Email: jdmalak@unc.edu
Term: Summer 2023
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
The driving force behind my background/minor study in statistics was my interests in sports. As I grew older, my interests in watching sports became investment into how sports teams and leagues operated. However, sports outside of the United States offers valuable insight into different traditions and approaches to athletics. And I found it fascinating how these foreign sports can foster world collaboration. I felt as if this program offered an opportunity to explore such interests and unique sport industries outside of the United States.
What did you learn about yourself?
This experience gave me a greater independence about navigating a foreign country. Before this trip, I had only been abroad at most for two weeks. The study abroad also allowed me to form new connection and network opportunities not easily found in America. The connections can go beyond just this past summer, and may help years ahead.
What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
The program allowed us the freedom to experience different aspects of sports throughout the United Kingdom. And for me, to visit the Scottish Open was an incredible experience. Not only were we able to experience a new culture in Scotland, but attend such a historic event that may do not attend throughout their lives.
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
If students try to avoid uncertainty in their studies, then they miss out on a key part of studying abroad. Uncertainty should be an opportunity to learn and grow in such new cultures. It's important to note that an entire class will share your fears or worries, and that they can be a support system for you long the way.
How do you identify?
Transfer Student
Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
Having transfered just a year prior, it felt familiar to be in a new setting with new opportunities and connections to make. Study abroad had also allowed me to build upon my UNC network (which is a huge positive considering transfer students don't have all four years like other students do).
Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
Remember that study abroad is a unique opportunity to not only discover new cultures, but also connect better to UNC (as transfers do not have a four-year window like other students). That despite being away from the UNC campus, you may come back with a greater knowledge and network for future semesters.
If you faced any challenges abroad, where could you turn to get the support you needed?
There are various helplines available during your study abroad. Professors and study abroad coordinators understand that each student has their own stories and worries while abroad, and can accommodate accordingly. There is also Luke Fayard who was my transfer coordinator; he can help with all things transfer-related.
Memories
