Ask me which country sparked my interest in travel and my answer will be England. As a child, I was entranced by their incredible history, which seemed to dwarf young-America's. Even more intriguing was coming to the realization that visiting England would give me a chance to explore the place where our countrys founders originated from, as well as giving me insight into the roots of American culture. When I first found out about the study abroad program at the University of Hawaii-Manoa, I grabbed as much information as I could about the London semester. I planned my classes so that I would have one semester "open" for the program; this has been a long-term goal of mine. This is the best opportunity to spend time in Europe because chances to spend prolonged time in the European Union are rare. Best of all, my major is especially suited for this program. As an English major, reading British literature in England proper is only appropriate. What better than to be in the region in which the literature is uniquely written about? It is very different to read the classics in Hawaii with the sunny skies and fifteen-minute walk to the beach as compared to reading them in foggy, architecturally-rich London.
Having looked over the classes Roehampton University offer for English and Theatre, I have found many I am interested in. I have already met with Dr. Zuern, the English department's undergraduate advisor, who has confirmed classes that would be beneficial to me. I am most interested in the London in Literature class. In addition, I am very happy that the resident advisor will be Mire Koikari, a women's studies teacher I have heard fantastic things about. Besides, I am debating a women's studies certificate. Perhaps this opportunity to study with such a respected teacher will finalize my decision.
If asked to describe personal benefits I expect, the answers would be incredibly difficult to explain. To start with, the biggest benefit I think I will gain is the knowledge and first-hand experience of another culture; not just one, but many, because I plan to use the weekends to travel to other countries as well. Although some may say that learning about cultures is not "practical", it is one of my passions.
Another benefit is independence. Although I realize that independence can be gained in ones hometown or even by moving to the mainland, the independence I gain in another country involves having to leave behind a larger comfort zone and dealing with more unknown factors. The idea of independence in a country I feel I am already in love with is a euphoric combination. Both of these factors together present a fantastic opportunity I have been looking forward to since my first year at UHM.
A third benefit is being able to meet people in their native setting and allowing them to show me their definition of London, other than a tourist's view. This applies for other countries I hope to visit as well, such as Greece, Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and France. I already have writer-friends met through a wonderful online group that are excited to hear that I may be going to their country and have been doing research through www.couchsurfing.com that enables travelers and backpackers to arrange meet-ups with locals or even pair travel companions. I feel confident that I am doing excellent research in this area and will be very prepared for the program.