Heather Murray shares her experiences from the University of Keele Exchange Program

The vast and exciting array of study abroad programs offered at USM was honestly one of the main reasons I chose this university in the first place. Ever since I was a little girl, I loved to read books about far-off places. I couldn’t wait for the day when I would be able to go on a journey of my own. As soon as I had the financial opportunity to do so, I applied for an exchange program. I was ready for my adventure to begin.

It’s difficult to sum up five of the best months of my life into these short paragraphs. What words are there to describe stepping off the London Underground for the first time, finding yourself in this ancient city you’ve heard about your whole life? What kind of picture can I give you of the view from my dorm room at Keele University, with the hilly, lush green countryside stretched out before me, dotted with sheep? Can I tell you how I felt in Scotland, when I visited Culloden battlefield—a place where my ancestors fought and died, where there is a memorial to people bearing my same name? It may seem silly, but it’s impossible to convey these experiences. They’re something you have to experience for yourself… Things you can experience for yourself, should you choose to study abroad.

Academically, I had a great experience. Keele has a beautiful campus, and the encouragement of independent learning in the UK allowed me to approach my college career in a different way. Since I’ve been back to the United States, I’ve found that research and development of my own scholarly ideas is much easier. I learned how to find information for myself.

My new independence was more than just academic, however. Doing a semester exchange stretches you as a person. Studying abroad and being on my own in a foreign country allowed me to grow up. I gained so much confidence and got to know myself better as experiences abroad tested my capabilities. The experience was truly invaluable and made me into who I am today. I am so thankful I chose to study abroad, and I’m so proud of the person I became through it. My time at Keele was truly one of the best times of my life.