I cannot say enough about how much my education abroad experience has meant to me. I walked away from the program having grown so much–personally and academically. My program allowed me to experience international/British politics firsthand. I was lucky enough to interact with Members of Parliament, local councilors, leaders, and academics all while being immersed in the vibrant and diverse culture of London and the broader United Kingdom. Living in London, exploring lots of parts of the city, and visiting places such as Oxford, Brighton, Windsor, and Cardiff exemplified the dynamics and diversity of the United Kingdom. I saw breathtaking sights, tried new foods and activities, learned to navigate a foreign country, made new friends, and so much more. These experiences have greatly added to my love of law and politics, and I will carry these memories and lessons forever, especially into my future legal career.

I felt fully supported by my faculty and Michigan State University throughout the duration of my program. I loved getting to experience London under the direction of my professor and TA. Their knowledge greatly enhanced my experience. I looked forward to our classes as much as I did our “excursions.” I have genuinely learned so, so much. As I head into my final semester, it is clear that studying abroad provided a great capstone to my instruction in and out of the classroom at Michigan State.

Education abroad, especially month-long programs, can be exhausting and challenging but every day was absolutely worth it. I cannot recommend studying abroad enough to my fellow students, especially transfer and first-generation students like me. Looking back on my photos and talking with the new friends made in my program, I cannot believe my luck and am so grateful to have gotten to participate in such an amazing education abroad program with MSU.

Name: Janey Salenbien
Status: Senior
Major: Political Science/Pre-law
Hometown: Dundee, Michigan
Program: British Politics and Society in the UK