LOCATION: LONDON
I did a month long study abroad program in London. I took a data science course at University College London. I chose London because I was looking for a location in Europe without a large language barrier. My parents also went to London several years ago and had all good things to say about the atmosphere, cleanliness, and safety of the city.
A SUMMER OF BALANCE
Being on campus for the first six weeks of summer was a great opportunity to get to know not only the incoming freshmen, but also deepen our connections with the other athletes on campus such as men's basketball and football. We enjoyed several large gatherings with both Lehigh basketball teams including a trip to the Jersey shore and several fellowship events. Being on campus also allowed us to grow as people and leaders through our work with Julie and Cait in the leadership department. After those six weeks I started my month abroad. I am currently home and enjoying the final few weeks with family and friends. My brother gets married this week so it's a blessing to be able to be around and be apart of all of those activities as well.
Everyone says Lehigh is the best of both worlds in reference to academics and athletics. But, I would argue that there are so many additional worlds out there that Lehigh truly allows you to explore. Whether that be exploring leadership development, social life on campus, or exploring the world, being at Lehigh has allowed me to develop in each area thanks to the balanced schedule away from campus during times like summer session.
3 HIGHLIGHTS:
- I went to the Wireless Music Festival which was my first ever concert/music festival and featured some of my favorite artists.
- I took a trip to Brighton and watched Poland vs. Austria's women's euro soccer match.
- Fab came and visited for two days toward the end of my trip and it was fun to show her around and redo some of the classic touristy events and collab in another country.
2 THINGS I LEARNED ABOUT MYSELF:
I learned a little bit more about who I am without basketball. I've always valued myself as more than a basketball player, but being away from basketball for an extended period of time allowed me the space to invest more time and energy into new things. I learned that I enjoy live music, kick boxing, taking long walks around the city with friends, and trying all sorts of new foods. I also learned I am able to function without a routine. I don't need to know exactly how each day is going to go. Sometimes you just have to lean into the discomfort of new experiences and go where life takes you.
ADVICE TO OTHER LEHIGH STUDENT-ATHLETES CONSIDERING TRIPS ABROAD:
Just go. It is never going to be extremely easy or convenient. Planning for travel, finding a place or class to take, or packing are always going to be stressors. But, in the grand scheme they are minor stressors compared to the memories and experiences you will gain. Lean into the discomfort and go for it.
