KC Harris | UCB Study Abroad

"I would not be the same person today if I had not done this program, and I think that's for the better."

What led you to study abroad? Why did you choose your country/program?

I wanted to grow up! Going straight from graduating high school to studying at Cal over the summer, and then London in the Fall, I knew I'd have to acclimate and experience new things. I definitely think I got what I was looking for; When going through so many new things so quickly, it's hard to not to discover quite a lot about who you really are.

What was the most interesting cultural experience you had abroad?

I loved traveling to countries where I didn't know the language! I truly believe there's no better way to really immerse yourself in a culture, and no challenge more real and exciting than figuring out how to survive in a place where you know nothing!

What was the biggest challenge/concern of your study abroad experience? How did you respond?

It was really hard being so far from home for me. I definitely think I was one of the more homesick students in the program. However, I can easily say that being so far away from the semester definitely made me realize how much my family meant to me, and helped me build some really good habits for staying in touch with them no matter where I am! To this day, I make sure to contact every one of my family members at minimum once a week, and even have a streak with one of my younger siblings that I didn't have before London!

Describe a typical day for you abroad.

Wake up, eat a quick snack, run throughout the quiet early-morning streets to the local gym.

Workout, go home, cook breakfast, clean up.

Walk to the bus stop, commute across the city, go to class.

Once the afternoon comes around, study for a bit, and then go back out into the city.

Maybe some food, meet some friends, or even go explore a new place or see a new play.

Head back home, cook dinner, and call home. Write in my journal, go to bed!

What coursework did you take while abroad? How did courses abroad compare with Berkeley classes?

Math - Still tough, was never really good at math!
Theatre - No way we'd ever get to see world class theatre for breadth classes at cal!
Art History - Totally opened my mind.. have so much more appreciation for museums and art now that I've taken the course. Tons of field trips to top museums!
Writing - Got to really learn a lot about British culture, and read some really great books! I don't

What was the most memorable/meaningful aspect of your time abroad?

Making new friends. It's hard not to form close relationships when you guys go do something as meaningful as this together! Still staying in touch with my people even now that we're back on campus.

What impact did studying abroad have on you personally?

Absolutely. I would not be the same person today if I had not done this program, and I think that's for the better.

What would you recommend to students considering studying abroad, especially to your country or program?

Commit! I know it's scary, but it's happening! The more you embrace it, the more you work to find meaning in everything you do, and the more you do while abroad, the more you'll gain from the experience. I promise it will be amazing if you do!!