Emily Schultz’s Transformative Experience in London
In January, Emily Schultz, a senior pursuing a writing-intensive English major, embarked on a two-week journey to London that turned out to be more profound than she initially anticipated. Despite being part of a group of students in her J-Session class, Schultz opted to venture through the city independently, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration of visiting the renowned British royal residences at Buckingham and Kensington palaces.
Reflecting on her solo exploration, Schultz remarked, “I didn’t foresee this trip having such a significant impact on my life, but it truly enhanced my sense of independence. Initially, I had envisioned exploring London predominantly with my classmates, but the experience of going solo enabled me to cultivate greater self-assurance and self-reliance.”
J-Session: A Gateway to Intensive Learning
J-Session, a specialized four-week academic term, offers undergraduates the opportunity to enroll in a single course during the break between fall and spring semesters, with options for short-term study abroad programs. Tailored to deliver a semester’s worth of content in a condensed timeframe, J-Session provides a rigorous yet gratifying educational experience.
London stands out as one of the key destinations available through J-Session, where students immerse themselves in the vibrant theater scene while earning three credits. The itinerary includes visits to iconic theaters like the Globe Theater and National Theater, along with attending diverse plays ranging from Shakespearean classics like Othello and Henry V to contemporary works such as To Kill a Mockingbird and Orlando.
The Theatrical Classroom Experience
Engaging with the plays becomes an integral part of the curriculum, with post-play discussions fueling insightful dialogues on the relevance of these theatrical works in today’s world. Driven by Associate Professor of English, these discussions spark profound reflections and interpretations among the students, irrespective of their prior exposure to theater.
Bill Beck, a senior from the Opus College of Engineering, expressed his newfound appreciation for theater, stating, “This class introduced me to the art form of theater in a way I’d never seen before. Despite my limited exposure to plays prior to this class, Dr. Farrell’s guidance and the diverse theatrical experiences broadened my perspective on the theatrical realm.”
Cultural Immersion and Personal Growth
Beyond the academic realm, J-Session offers a holistic cultural experience that extends beyond the theater. Students have the opportunity to explore renowned landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye, gaining invaluable insights into different cultures and fostering a sense of global belonging.
Reflecting on his cultural immersion, Beck emphasized, “Encountering both cultural disparities and commonalities abroad has enriched my understanding of my role within the global community. Such firsthand experiences are pivotal in shaping a broader worldview.”
Studying abroad not only enriches academic pursuits but also serves as a catalyst for personal development and cultural enrichment. It encourages students to embrace active participation in life, fostering a mindset of exploration and seizing opportunities for growth and discovery, both at home and abroad.