Tara is a History student at Queen Mary University of London and as a Turing Scheme grant recipient, studied abroad at Stevens Institute of Technology in the US. Read Tara’s blog to learn about life in both New Jersey and New York City…

My exchange year took place in Hoboken, New Jersey at Stevens Institute of Technology. The location was one of the main reasons I chose to study here, as the campus overlooks New York City. The great location allowed me to explore two incredible states. Detailed below are my experiences of American life and university. I hope these tips and tricks help to prepare you as you embark on the year of your life!

Settling In
Your first few days or weeks are probably going to feel super strange. There were so many moments where I actually just had to take a minute to process that I was really in another country, it was actually happening. You could even have a moment of self-doubt where you think – was this a good idea? Well I can answer that for you, it is 100% a good idea. Your semester/year ahead will bring so many memories, all of which will completely overshadow any initial doubts you may have.

There are some parts of exchange life that will never not be strange. However, these are not necessarily bad things. Thinking back to my first week I was just so shocked by the campus mascot (an absolutely ginormous duck) who appeared to change outfits every, single day. Immediately, I felt as if I was on the set of High School Musical, or Glee – something that only happened in the movies. Throughout the academic year, these strange but funny moments kept happening to me. Although this was not something I expected to experience, I really enjoyed these moments on campus – it had such a community feel. Being the new person on campus you may not feel like you fit into this community straight away, but these concerns will eventually fade away.

Culture Shock
UK vs USA. Realistically, how different would life be in the US? Culture shock was never a factor that crossed my mind when I signed up to study in New Jersey. How narrow minded I was – this is especially humorous coming from a girl who had never visited the US. Well let me tell you, I am to say the least, shocked! Though we often hear about culture shock it is rare that we get to experience it. Student life in the US surrounds an entirely different culture! Greek life was especially shocking – the term used to describe Fraternities and Sororities. However, culture shock does work both ways. Many American students I encountered were equally as surprised that I had never been to a frat party or attended a
sorority mixer! While you study in the US, do take advantage of such events! You can meet so many people and learn so much about the differences in university life.

Another key shock for me was the normality of having a roommate. Having never shared a bedroom, I initially found it very difficult learning to share my space. However, to overcome these difficulties it is important to discuss your living preferences with your designated roommate. Honestly…a roommate agreement is truly a life saver, especially when you and the stranger are unaware of each other’s lifestyles and habits. This living arrangement can be frustrating at first, but again remember there are two people being placed in this situation. While you are adapting to live with them, they may feel the same way about you. If, like me, you struggle with this arrangement, bear in mind that it is one tiny aspect of your exchange. The positives always outweigh the negatives, so you will be able to look beyond this.

Food
Both New York and New Jersey are known for their never-ending restaurants that quite frankly, I just couldn’t get enough of. Here goes my top recommendations…

Hoboken:

• Karma Kafe – the most perfect Indian food spot – and well deserved after a long day of classes!

• O’Bagel – although NYC is known for its bagels – let’s not forget New Jersey! Perfect to grab on your way to class and so so good! (P.s Don’t let the New Yorkers know, but I might actually prefer this to a NYC bagel! Confession: eating a bagel became a mandatory part of my mornings.)

NYC:
Now these options are honestly endless. Being there for just short of a year, I was able to eat my way through the city.

• The Dumpling Man – excellent and authentic Chinese spot (I’m actually still thinking about how good these dumplings are)

• Joe’s Pizza – if you’ve watched Spiderman you’ll have heard of this one.

• 7th Street Burger

• Forma Pasta Factory – Italian spot in Brooklyn – ideal for brunching on a budget

• Levain Bakery – (a must)

• Baonanas – Filipino-inspired desserts
  

Finances
Budgeting is very important when studying abroad. Although you may feel financially prepared and responsible, it is important to account for unforeseen costs, and the general financial differences that accompany a lifestyle in the US. The Turing scheme provided me with funding that was incredibly beneficial, allowing me to accommodate for these expenses. There are many other funding options available for outbound students, such as Student Finance travel grants, Queen Mary scholarships and funding opportunities from the exchange university! Although they are not guaranteed, do apply and take advantage of such resources.

Travel
Although I was able to travel to states within the US such as Washington D.C, Massachusetts and Tennessee, I was also able to travel a little further! Towards the end of your exchange you may be granted a grace period. When deciding how to utilise this time, I would urge you to travel. At the end of my study period I was able to travel to Canada and Mexico. While my entire exchange was culturally enriching, these final weeks were truly special. Although I have a passion for travel, I didn’t ever think I would get to visit these places. However, they were so amazing! Montreal’s incredible French-feel was truly something – an atmosphere I will never forget. The streets of Mexico were so lively and vibrant, the festivals were so
incredible, like walking through a live art installation. Wherever you end up, there are going to be incredible moments surrounded by new cultures that you truly cannot experience at home. Take advantage of these moments, as travelling can really broaden your understanding of the world and its people, which is such an important part of life.

Returning home
The transition from being abroad to moving back home can be especially daunting. You’ve just gotten used to life away. You’ve made a bunch of new friends. You love the food there, you love the life and university. Thoughts like this crossed my mind on the plane ride home. This made the long journey feel
even longer…

The future felt so uncertain, and I worried that coming home I might feel a little lost. All of these feelings are normal, you may just take some time to adapt to life at home, but you will just as you did when you arrived on your exchange year. But don’t worry, everything will fall into place. Studying abroad is not just an experience but it is a journey, with a start and end. Hold on to these exciting memories as you look towards the future.