Queen Mary University of London student Shannon Ogieva was one of two students selected for our Spelman College exchange programme in Summer 2025 – she shares her transformative experience both in and outside of the classroom.

When I flew to Atlanta, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I knew I was going to Spelman College, a prestigious historically Black college but I thought classes would feel quite like what I was used to at Queen Mary in London. Instead, I found a completely different style of teaching and community that changed how I think about learning and about myself. 

The biggest difference I noticed was how interactive classes were. At Queen Mary lectures are often larger and focus on delivering content which means students do a lot of independent study. At Spelman it was the opposite. Professors wanted everyone to speak up. They encouraged discussion and debate; students were expected to share their views. 

At first this was intimidating because I can be naturally reserved, but as time went on I started to find my voice. I realised it wasn’t about having a perfect answer but about being confident enough to join the conversation. Even though I wasn’t formally assessed, the interactive style of teaching kept me engaged in a way that was very different from home. 

Beyond the Classroom 

Life outside of class was just as meaningful. Because Spelman is a smaller and close-knit community, it was easy to get to know people. Professors knew students by name and cared about how we were doing. That atmosphere made it easier to settle in and build friendships quickly. 

One of the most eye-opening parts of student life was learning about sororities and their presence on campus. They were more than just social clubs; they combined sisterhood, service and leadership in a way that shaped the whole campus culture. Seeing how proud students were of their sorority involvement showed me the value of community traditions and belonging. 

Atlanta itself was also an incredible classroom. I visited the APEX Museum and the Sweet Auburn district where I had the chance to look through archives of Black history. APEX is so influential in Atlanta and taught me far more about African American history than I had ever studied before. I even carried out some research into the Gullah Geechee people and their cultural legacy which gave me a new perspective on resilience and heritage. The experience left such an impression on me that I am now a UK based volunteer for the museum, helping to share its mission with wider audiences. 

Of course, not everything was glamorous. I learned quickly that bug bites in Atlanta are relentless, so insect repellent is a must. Getting used to transport and food budgeting was also a challenge, but those little hurdles became part of the adventure. 

Studying abroad wasn’t just about academics. Being in a new environment pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone. I spoke up more in class, I introduced myself to new people and I grew more confident in how I present myself. I came back to London with stronger communication skills and a greater willingness to embrace the unfamiliar. 

It also gave me time to reflect on my future career. As a biochemistry student I have always been interested in medicine and intellectual property, but studying abroad helped me see the importance of global perspectives in science and healthcare and it motivated me to think about how my career might connect with international opportunities. 

If you are considering studying abroad my advice is to be open minded and willing to try new things. Even if you are shy the interactive teaching style can help you grow in ways you do not expect. Budget carefully, make sure you pack insect repellent if you are going to Atlanta and take the chance to join in on social activities. Some of my best memories came from simple things like chatting in class or exploring the city with new friends. 

Looking back my time at Spelman was transformative: it gave me confidence, friendships, and a new outlook on my studies and career. Both the UK and US systems have their strengths, and I feel lucky to have experienced both. If you are thinking about going abroad, I would absolutely recommend it. You will come back not only with memories but with skills and lessons that will stay with you long after the programme ends.