My name is Bailey, and I am currently doing a legal studies program in Wales. My major
is sociology, and my minors are legal studies and criminology. I come from a single-mother
household and have always struggled financially. Throughout my experience as a Diverse Duck
ambassador, I want to highlight that people from all families and financial backgrounds can
study abroad and have an amazing experience.
I chose my specific program because I have always been
interested in law and wondered how it could differ country to
country. On the other hand, I had never heard of Wales, and after
researching on the internet, I fell in love with its nature and way of life.
Before arrival, it was very important for me to understand the
different culture of the country I was entering. Even simple things
like walking on the opposite side of the sidewalk. Also researching
the weather and possible things you may need, like rain jackets
even in the summer, or electronics-wise, the G-adapters.
I originally landed in London and solo explored for two days. Then
I took the train and got to see the countryside of Wales on my way into Cardiff. There are so
many differences here, but as a woman walking around and traveling alone, I felt safer than in the
United States. That is not to say that I was not cautious, but it seems like everyone keeps more to
themselves and you hardly find interaction if you are not searching for it. The way of life here in
Wales is a lot slower-paced, and everyone seems to do things with intention and are hardly on
electronics, which is refreshing.
Unfortunately, I had a very tough time with the train system
into Wales. It can be especially difficult right now due to the heat
wave and many closures. On that topic, the heatwave has been
terrible since there is no air conditioning in the UK, so our dorm
rooms can reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Another issue I have that I
think other people should look into, is the fact that my credit card does
not work at every place. It is important to check which cards can work
everywhere before applying for credit and understanding the
conversion rates and potential fees.
One great surprise so far is how much I enjoy every professor
and classmate here in my program. I feel as though in a week I have
already made lifelong friends. A happy medium surprise was the heat
wave because there is no AC. It makes it unbearable, but we are also able to go to the beach and
wear shorts in a country that otherwise typically rains.