Jackson Wheat
About My Study Abroad Program
Major/Minor: Biology. Minor in chemistry and health and society
Program: Burch Infectious Disease Program in London
Location: London, United Kingdom
Email: jwheat@unc.edu
Term: Summer 2024
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I chose to study abroad because I really wanted to expand my worldview. As someone who has done very little travelling, the idea of living in another country and getting to experience a different way of life was exciting but also daunting. I was nervous how I would respond to being in a different country, but I really wanted to push myself and become a more independent student and thinker. I selected my program largely because it fit with my major and area of interest. Additionally, I served as the TA for the biology course in London. I assisted the professor with course plannning, grading, and organizing excursions. My professor asked me to join her on the Burch Infectious Disease program and take biol 291.
What did you learn about yourself?
One of the biggest things I learned about myself was that if I pushed myself to do things that I didn't think I could do, I could end up surprising myself and exceeding my wildest expectations. Before coming on this program, I was incredibly nervous. I had hardly ever travelled and the thought of living in another country was terrifying. However, I decided to push myself and ended up having one of the most meaningful and fun summers of my life. I made so many connections and friends that I will cherish for the rest of my life. This experience taught me to take risks and also to be a much more independent thinker and student.
What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
My favorite memory from the program was on the very last day when the entire group went on the London Eye. Our professors joined us and our group had bought them gifts which we gave them once we got on the eye. We had gotten out english professor and 'I heart London' shirt (despite him being british and living in London). Each student got their own shirt and we all signed the back of them as way to commemorate the trip. I really enjoyed all of us being together and looking back on the incredible journey we had all been on.
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
One major piece of advice I have is to put yourself out there. It can be incredibly intimidating when you're in a new country surrounded by unfamiliar places and people. But the way I chose to view it was that I was only going to get an opportunity like this once in my life. I needed to make the most out of every moment. When you put yourself out there you never know what could happen!
How do you identify?
LGBTQ+
Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
When I first arrived in the UK i wasn't sure how open I could be about my LGBTQ identity. However, after opening up with my fellow group members, I quickly felt extremely comfortable and accepted. My program happened to be in London during their annual pride festival. That weekend, many members from our group travelled to Picadilly circus and got to experience the festivities. It was truly a very accepting and welcoming environment.
Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
My advice is to find people who are accepting and value your identity. My program was very accepting of my identity and I always felt welcome in the group. This allowed me to feel at ease and be myself without having to worry about judgement or hate.
Memories




