My First Journey to the UK: Summer 2024 Study Abroad London!
My Travel Story
Check out our video diary assignment from the trip here: Video Diary
Hello everyone,
I'm thrilled to share the incredible journey I’ve just completed—a life-changing study abroad program in London during the Summer of 2024, and I’m reaching out for your support to help cover the costs I’ve already incurred.
Why London?
London is not just a city; it’s a living history book and a global hub of innovation. As a General Engineering major focused on aerospace and sustainability, this city provided me with a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies, environmental initiatives, and the rich historical context that has shaped today’s world. From ancient Roman Londinium to the bustling world capital it is today, London has been the perfect classroom.
What I Experienced and Learned:
This wasn’t just about being a tourist—my time in London was filled with deep learning and exploration. I took part in several impactful courses, each paired with field trips that brought the lessons to life:
- Humanities in World Cultures: Cultures of the Former British Colonial World: This course offered me a deep dive into the legacy of British colonialism and its impact on modern societies. A highlight was our visit to the Royal Greenwich Observatory, where we discussed the role of navigation and timekeeping in British imperial history. Another memorable trip was to Kew Gardens, where we learned about the history of the rubber tree and its significance in the colonial economy. Exploring the diverse neighborhood of Brixton also provided insights into the cultural and social dynamics shaped by colonial legacies.
- Soil, Water, and Civilization: This course allowed me to explore how the management of natural resources has led to the rise and fall of civilizations, drawing parallels to modern sustainability challenges. Our visit to the British Museum was particularly eye-opening, as we examined artifacts that showcased the interplay between environmental stewardship and societal development in ancient cultures. We also visited Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where we learned about how urban redevelopment projects can incorporate sustainable practices, and the Thames Barrier, where we saw firsthand how London is addressing current environmental challenges, particularly in managing flood risks.
- London: From Roman Colony to World Capital: This course traced the evolution of London over 2,000 years. Walking through Roman ruins and visiting iconic sites like the Tower of London helped me understand how economic, political, and social forces have continuously shaped the city. We also participated in a sustainability-focused neighborhood walk, where we analyzed how historical and modern developments in various London neighborhoods reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to sustainable urban living.
Beyond the academic experience, this trip also fulfilled a lifelong dream of mine—to visit Scotland. My girlfriend and I embarked on a journey to Edinburgh, where we soaked in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. We even ventured into the Highlands, learning about the tragic history of the Glencoe Massacre and the mysteries of Loch Ness. This personal journey was as enriching as the academic one, deepening my appreciation for history and nature.
Why I Need Your Help:
While I was able to cover the upfront costs of this trip through financial aid, the total expenses have added up, and I’m seeking support to help pay off the remaining balance. Your contribution, no matter the size, will directly help me manage these costs and focus on applying what I’ve learned to my future endeavors.
Why Donate?
Your donation isn’t just financial support; it’s an investment in the future. By helping me with these expenses, you’re empowering me to continue pursuing sustainable engineering solutions and contributing to global conversations on how we can better manage our resources. Together, we can create a positive impact on the world.
Thank you so much for your generosity and support. Let’s make dreams take flight together!
Warm regards,
Kyle
More Travel Information
Adventure Registry
-
Financial Aid Loans
$ 15,276FSA- Granted
-
-
Donate
$ 2,120 USD
Total Donation Received-
47%
Funded -
$ 4,463 USD
Goal Amount -
152
Days Left
-
-
Cost Calculator
-
Application/ Deposit Fee
$ 4,250
-
FundMyTravel Site Fee
$ 213
-
-
Funders
-
Dolt ramu Funded $ 10 USD
Sep 10, 2024 -
DOLT RAMU Funded $ 10 USD
Sep 10, 2024 -
Anonymous Funded $ 100 USD
Jun 17, 2024 -
Jo Ann Marshall Funded $ 1,000 USD
Mar 23, 2024 -
Jeff Marshall Funded $ 1,000 USD
Mar 23, 2024
-