London Lens: A Study Abroad Perspective

Author: Avery Besson | Major: International Business and French | Semester: Summer 2024

London Calling

I studied abroad in London, England, for Spring 2024 through the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) at the Queen Mary University of London (QMUL). My interest in this program was sparked by pursuing a degree in International Business as an Honors student at the University of Arkansas. I chose London because it is a global financial hub and the location of Deloitte’s headquarters, the company where I secured a full-time offer post-graduation. The five-month program in London allowed me to gain international experience, fulfill degree requirements, and enhance my career prospects in global business.

At QMUL, I completed twelve credit hours, including courses such as International Trade and Capital Markets I, which aligned with my International Business and Finance Concentration requirements. I also took upper-level French courses, such as Translation into French and Picturing a Nation: France and its Image from Marianne to #JesuisCharlie. These courses were critical for my foreign language proficiency and career goals, as I plan to relocate to Paris in the future. Living on campus in a residential hall shared with international and full-time QMUL students immersed me in London culture and academic life.

My research and academic experiences in London included adapting to a different education system emphasizing independent study and critical thinking. One significant adjustment was understanding and navigating the grading system, which differs from what I was accustomed to in America. At QMUL, the grading scale starts with 40 being the minimum passing grade. A score of 50 is considered equivalent to a C, 60 corresponds to a B, and 70 is an A. Achieving anything above 80 is considered exceptional performance.

This grading system reflects the high academic standards at QMUL, which is renowned for its rigorous curriculum. The emphasis on independent research required me to develop new study habits and engage more deeply with the material. For instance, in my International Trade course, I had to undertake extensive independent research, analyze complex global trade issues, and present my findings coherently and persuasively. The exposure to different business practices and legal systems, such as the UK’s common law system, provided a unique vantage
point for understanding global commerce and trade dynamics.

A particular moment that stood out during my time abroad was working on a group project in my Capital Markets I class with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds. This collaboration enhanced my teamwork and communication skills, providing a practical application of the global perspectives I was studying. It highlighted the importance of considering different viewpoints and adapting to various working styles, which is essential in international business.

London’s diversity and multicultural environment surprised me the most during my study abroad experience. I initially expected to see primarily British people and hear English exclusively. Instead, I was surrounded by a rich tapestry of cultures and languages. This diversity enriched my understanding of global perspectives and my worldview. I got involved in the French Society, where I attended weekly meet-ups and practiced my French with other exchange students. This experience broadened my cultural understanding and allowed me to form meaningful connections.

Overall, my experience studying abroad in London was transformative. It enhanced my adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. These skills are crucial for my future career in international business, particularly as I aim to participate in Deloitte’s Learning Development Global Mobility Program and work in their London office. The connections I made and the diverse perspectives I gained have equipped me with a global outlook, reinforcing that our differences are a source of strength and learning.