"Throughout the year, I was exposed to people and experiences that I could never have imagined and these have all helped to shape my mind and attitude.”
Glyn Kennils, Albany, USA
Personally, it had always been a dream to visit America and in particular, New York. SUNY Albany is a fantastic university that had courses similar to those offered by the University of Glasgow and was only a short distance from New York City - everything I wanted! So many things surprised me about New York! Everyone was so friendly and had such a positive attitude to foreigners - I actually think they liked people more if they weren’t from the USA. Also the nightlife in the USA is very different, with the higher drinking age - this means that there are a lot more house parties, which sometimes you are charged to get into, than nights at a club. But for those who do go to the clubs, American ‘Bump-and-Grind’ is not for the faint hearted!
My Studies
I am currently pursing a joint honours degree between Business and English Literature. As a business student, I have an interest in global business and internationalism - studying abroad in America afforded me the opportunity to see how business is taught from a different perspective. I also enjoy American Literature so being taught that literature while actually in America was especially interesting.
My experience abroad will help me professionally and personally. A year abroad shows a potential employer that a person is not afraid to step out of their comfort zone, is adaptable and enjoys challenges and adventures. On a personal level, a year abroad is a true test of character, no matter how wonderful or difficult the year may have been.
Three words to describe your experience?
Dream Come True.