With deadlines for study abroad programmes inching closer, here is some advice to help you through the umming and ahing. Though the next couple of years seem a million miles away, it is very handy to think ahead about where you want to be, whether that is sticking to our much-loved Toon or searching further afield. As I didn’t (and still don’t!) really have a career plan, I found that splitting up my course with a little adventure really appealed to me. Though initially set on a European destination, fate had it that I was whisked across the Atlantic to our Western cousin, the USA.
The initial realisation that I was actually moving 3000 miles away to the University at Buffalo did made me pretty anxious, however, I welcomed a new wave of excitement for the year ahead. This change of plan was a blessing in disguise as I have met some amazing people, made great friends from all over the world and added a cheeky extra boost to my CV. Hearing stories from my friends exchanging in Europe, it is clear that every destination gives a unique experience, but I am simply here to vouch for our star-spangled friend.
Don’t get me wrong, when I first arrived, I was pretty terrified but after being thrown into the deep end and sharing a dorm with three other girls, everything luckily seems to have clicked into place. Though often being a bit daunting when leaving my comfort zone, after 10 weeks in Buffalo, I can now safely say I have truly settled in. Of course, there will always be new challenges coming my way. Specific to the US, the biggest change is having the drinking age at 21 unlike the UK’s more reasonable 18. With no Luther’s or Spoons to go to, it really is a struggle!
Luckily after the initial shock, I haven’t quite missed out, with the many Frat parties we see in the movies actually being real and as crazy as ever! The neon colours that Fanta has somehow adopted over here and the wild obsession with public holidays also prove to be quite unusual; however, being exposed to this new culture brings constant enjoyment. Though I do miss the uplifting sound of 52,000 bellowing fans at St. James’ Park, the sports games here are phenomenal.
After managing to nab some NFL Buffalo Bills tickets, I must say it was one of the best events I will ever experience, despite the gaping hole left in my bank account. Even the University team- The Bulls- has a stadium that seats 30,000 people! The lack of Bonfire Night and The Bake-Off do leave me with a heavy heart; however this is quickly bettered with the life-changing visit to Chick-fil-A and counting down the days until Thanksgiving (though a slightly controversial topic in my opinion).
Some quick words of advice- though it will feel like your world is ending while completing the visa and travel documents, please stick it out, the end point is so worth it. Don’t worry about making friends, the right people will gravitate towards you, (especially because of your ‘exotic’ accent) and avoid stressing if you haven’t found a bestie in the first few weeks. The aluminium vs. aluminium debates will constantly flow, no matter how hard you try to avoid them and the revelation that EVERYTHING contains peanut butter will soon become the norm.
The culture shocks of squeezy cheese and PB+J sandwiches, as well as the weird and wonderful American phrases will keep surprising you but learn to take everything in your stride. In no time you will be back at Cosy Joes and spending every spare minute in the Robbo, so I would definitely recommend trying to get through every US fast-food chain that we are lacking in the UK! Despite common misconception, this will be one of the most fleeting years of your life so, if you are lucky enough to get this chance, please take it!
