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 "The most exciting part of my classes was seeing first-hand what we were studying. In British Art and Architecture we studied the Gothic revival of the 19th century. Not only was I living in one of the world's best examples of this kind of architecture, but we took a spontaneous field trip to walk around the Houses of Parliament. In another class, we stood in front of Jan van Eyck's portrait, Giovanni Arnolfini and his wife, in the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. How many students get to do this?" “Between London’s multicultural districts, pubs, museums, theatres, architecture, and easy travel opportunities to all parts of Europe, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone looking for an atypical first-year semester.” (Ted ’08 ) “It is so fulfilling to move far away and start a life of my own. I feel so much more mature and independent. The whole London experience opened my eyes to foreign cultures and helped me understand more about American culture as well.” (Blair ’08) “I recommend the London program because it forces you to adapt not only to college life, but to a different country and culture. It’s amazing to see how much is out there for you to experience, not only in London but throughout Europe. Adventurous students shouldn’t hesitate to sign up. No other college that I know of offers this type of experience right out of high school.” (Matthew ’07) |
 “The London program helped me to become even more independent. I’m totally comfortable booking airfare, locating hotels, and finding my way around cities where I don’t speak the language. The experience was also a good transition to college life: after being in a foreign country, college wasn’t anywhere near as scary.”(Corrie ’07) "The London First-Year Experience gives our students a chance to explore a grand city, with such an abundance of offerings that it’s impossible to do everything. With inexpensive travel opportunities throughout Europe, London was a base for wider explorations, too. It’s a great transition from high school to Skidmore, and students are bound to return more sophisticated and worldly, with a deeper sense of global differences and connections.” (Professor of English Linda Simon, Faculty-Director in Fall 2004) “The opportunity to enjoy so many of the wonders of Europe with a large group of friends, and still get a semester’s worth of Skidmore credit is, simply, as good as it gets.” (Andy ’06)“I really wanted to come to Skidmore! I knew the experience would be fun, but I wasn’t expecting the London trip to be as amazing as it was, and I would definitely recommend anyone who is offered the program to go.” “The kids in the group were amazing. I made great friends on the first day.” (Jenna ’06) |
 “The fact that I lived in London for my first semester and was able to make the city my own seems incredible to me; looking back I wouldn’t have given up the experience for anything.” (Abby ’06)“I suggest taking any course that integrates its curriculum with going out into the city…I would suggest that you take any class where you learn about the British culture or European culture.” (Amanda ’06) “I learned so much about the world in the short time we were there. I gained a sense of awareness that would be impossible to get any other way than studying abroad.” (Alexis ’05) “As a city, London has so much to offer. I appreciated the abundance of museums, galleries, and cultural events always going on…I was also surprised at how welcoming and sympathetic the Brits were, in regards to navigating and exploring the city. London, although one of the biggest cities in the world, was still manageable even for a freshman in college.” (Tara ’05) “A totally enlightening experience. You will come back more mature and worldly than you would ever imagine.” (Ellen ’05) “A powerful learning experience and a worthwhile trip that I’m very glad I took.” (Doug ’05) |
 “If I had the chance to do the London program all over again I absolutely would. It has thus far been the most memorable experience of my life and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Plus, when we came in second semester I felt that I was much better prepared than the other freshmen who had already been here for a semester, and everyone was so excited to meet us! Also, living abroad gave me a whole new perspective and I definitely caught the travel bug. Not only is London a fabulous city, it’s so centrally located that travel is a cinch and internet deals make it so inexpensive to go on weekend excursions to other countries. Just tell these kids to have faith in their abilities to experience new things and to really travel while they’re there. Everyone I’ve spoken to at Skidmore has said that they are jealous of our trip and would love to have gone.” (Caitlin ’05)“As expensive as London is, its theatre is wonderfully cheap—so take advantage. In many ways, London was one of the most amazing theatrical experiences I’ve ever had. Also, be sure to take advantage of the fact that so many other cultures are at your fingertips…if you can’t travel, also know that there’s enough in London and on the whole rock itself to keep you occupied for years, let alone a semester.” (Shira ’05) Would you like to talk to a former student? Contact Tina Breakell, Program Coordinator, at +1-518-580-5355 or cbreakel@skidmore.edu. |
