Upon returning home, I was reminded of the differences in everyday things in England compared to the United States. The accents, grocery stores, and currencies are just few of the things that made England such a unique experience for an American student studying at Oxford University. The beautiful scenery that Worcester College exhibits rivals anything that I have seen at the many American universities I have been to.
Prior to studying abroad at Oxford, I have not traveled outside of the United States in six years. I felt it was preferable to travel to a country that was not totally different from casual life in the United States. Therefore, I did not experience any reverse culture shock upon my return to the United States. Surprisingly, I did not suffer any jet lag when returning to the U.S. from England. When I was at Heathrow Airport waiting for my flight to Atlanta, I was struck by the wide variety of shops and restaurants since it was the first time I have been to an international airport abroad.
Overall, my time studying abroad has inspired me to travel more. Upon returning to the University of Alabama for the fall semester, I am reminded of my time at Oxford University. Whenever I am studying at Gorgas Library, I am reminded of going to the Radcliffe Camera Library in Oxford since both of these places have enlightened me with wisdom and knowledge that will have a profound impact on my intellectual development. My study abroad term at Oxford University will always be one of my most proudest achievements.