Major: Secondary Social Studies Education and History
Hometown: Pottstown, Pennsylvania

How did you learn about this opportunity?

I learned about this program through extensive research on the Penn State Education Abroad webpage. I spoke with both of my advisers to determine if this was the best program that would allow me to travel and complete my major requirements along the way.

Tell us a little bit about your experience.

My experience has enlightened me on the British work culture. There are many similarities and differences between the two working cultures. Unlike my internship experiences in the U.S., I was able to contribute more in my internship abroad whether that be through market research or helping with the daily occurrences that arise in running a museum.  

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has positively influenced me academically. The program attempts to hybrid the American system of education with the British system of education. Once I got over the initial shock of finding out that my grade would be determined by two in-class essays, I changed my studying tactics. It was not easy to adjust academically but I have improved my writing skills over the course of the semester.

You will learn from places and people that you least expect to learn from. 

What are your career goals and plans?  How did this experience impact them?

I plan to continue on to graduate school and earn my PhD in History. This experience has helped me to narrow down which fields in history I would like to study. Through my internship, I have become more comfortable working with a smaller institution. After interning at The Benjamin Franklin House, I have gained many skills that I did not think would be necessary when working in a museum.

Would you recommend this experience to other Liberal Arts students?

I would recommend this experience to other Liberal Arts students because London is such a diverse city. Everything is within a short walking distance of each other, especially in the center of London. You will learn from places and people that you least expect to learn from. After spending four months in this diverse city, I am convinced that I will apply for a job here after graduation.