Tag Archives: University of Roehampton

Amy Bhatta

Paris was one of many cities I got the privilege to see. First night I was there, I took this in front of the Eiffel Tower.

NAME: Amy Bhatta

MAJOR: Psychology

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Roehampton University – London, UK Spring 2025

EMAIL: amy.bhatta@sjsu.edu

BIO:

Hello, my name is Amy Bhatta, and I studied abroad this past Spring 2025 at Roehampton University in southwest London. I chose to study abroad because I frankly felt like I needed a new experience outside of the United States. I was born and raised in Nepal for the first 5 years of my life, and have traveled to Asia a little bit. Europe was something that always felt out of reach because I did not feel like I had a reason to be there. SJSU gave me a reason to feel like I belong there. Living in London has been a dream of mine since I was in 7th grade, and it finally came true. I experienced so many different cultures and realized that the world has so much more to offer than what feels like the daily autopilot life. The experiences I gained from Roehampton itself as well as the places I traveled, are incomparable to what I can put into words. I would love to share a small part of that experience with someone else who is given the chance to go abroad. 

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My goals for studying abroad were to challenge myself by stepping outside of my comfort zone. Living in a new country, far from home, was an opportunity to grow in confidence, independence, and adaptability. I hoped to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, build meaningful connections with people from around the world, and become more globally minded.

Academically, I aimed to enhance my learning by engaging with new perspectives and approaches within my field. Studying psychology in an international setting allowed me to explore different academic methods and deepen my understanding of how culture and environment influence human behavior. I also wanted to push myself intellectually by adapting to a different educational system and making the most of the coursework and discussions.

Professionally, I sought to strengthen my communication and problem-solving skills in diverse environments. I knew that studying abroad would help me develop the cross-cultural competencies increasingly valued in today’s global workforce. I also hoped to expand my international network and gain experiences I could speak to in future job or graduate school interviews, demonstrating not just academic achievement but also initiative, resilience, and cultural awareness.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact study abroad had on me was global awareness. I have been living in America since 2008, and the biggest thing I have learned living here is that we are told this is the greatest country in the world. We are wired to believe it does not get better than this “American Dream.” My parents came here chasing that dream for them and hoping that dream would make its way onto me. In the past few years, I have realized that the so-called “American Dream” seems to be fading in many Americans’ lives, including mine. Being abroad showed me that the dream isn’t impossible to establish, but it may look different for everyone. Everyone is at a different place in their lives, and nobody is on the same timeline anymore. Being globally aware made me realize Americans live to work while the rest of the world works to live. Some people may be content with that, but this experience has made me realize that while I love living here, I don’t love the expectations and lifestyles. I will make sure I see the beauty in what the dream has to offer but make it my own without pressure from expectations. 

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

I took Principles of Marketing to fulfill part of my business minor, which gave me valuable insights into international consumer behavior and branding strategies from a UK and European context. I took Health Psychology and Addictive Behaviors, which counted toward my final psychology requirement. This course provided a deeper understanding of the psychological factors influencing health choices, particularly concerning public health systems abroad. Lastly, I took a Content Creation class that was both interdisciplinary and creative. It explored how digital media intersects with everyday life through music, sports, food, and art. This class pushed me to think critically about the content we consume and produce in a globalized world.

To ensure academic success, I stayed organized with a digital planner, actively participated in seminar discussions, and regularly sought feedback from professors. I also collaborated with other international students, which helped me gain new perspectives and adjust to the UK’s independent learning style.

Since returning to SJSU, I’ve found myself more confident in not only myself but also in my academic life. My time abroad not only strengthened my academic skills but also expanded the way I approach learning across disciplines.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

One of the most important skills I sharpened was adaptability. Adjusting to a new country, academic system, and social environment pushed me to become more flexible and open to change. I learned how to navigate unfamiliar settings confidently, whether it was managing public transportation in London, figuring out grocery shopping without familiar brands, or understanding new academic expectations.

My intercultural communication skills. Being in classrooms and communities with students from all over the world helped me become a better listener, more mindful of different cultural perspectives, and more effective at expressing my ideas clearly across diverse settings. Academically, I honed my critical thinking and time management skills. The UK’s more self-directed learning style required me to take greater responsibility for organizing my studies, meeting deadlines, and engaging with coursework independently. This has made me more self-disciplined and proactive in my classes at SJSU.

Additionally, I built a stronger sense of confidence and independence. Living abroad and traveling to multiple countries taught me how to problem-solve on the spot, whether it was booking last-minute train tickets or handling unexpected travel delays. These experiences have had a lasting impact, not only making me more prepared for future professional opportunities but also helping me return to campus with a greater sense of purpose, resilience, and global awareness.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Living and studying abroad deeply transformed how I see the world. Immersing myself in British culture—and traveling to places like Spain, Malta, France, Morocco, and different parts of England, opened my eyes to the richness of global diversity and the shared human experiences that connect us across borders.

Engaging with people from different cultural, linguistic, and social backgrounds challenged many of my assumptions. I became more open-minded, more curious, and more appreciative of perspectives different from my own. From daily conversations with classmates to observing how other societies approach education, health, food, and even time, I developed a broader, more empathetic worldview.

My immersion also taught me the value of slowing down, listening more, and being comfortable with the unfamiliar. It helped me realize that there is no single “right” way to live, learn, or connect with others. This awareness has not only shaped my global outlook but also made me more thoughtful and inclusive in both academic and personal settings.

Overall, this experience taught me that there is so much more to life than what feels like the life you’re currently stuck in. Before I left, I felt like I was on autopilot, like I was going through the motions of life, but not understanding the joy and privilege that I had. Being abroad showed me that it is okay if you need to pack up your bags and leave a part of your life behind (even if it is for 5 months), because the fear will soon turn into memories of other cities and countries. 

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad has deepened my understanding of psychology by exposing me to global perspectives on mental health, behavior, and public health systems. Taking Health Psychology and Addictive Behaviors in the UK allowed me to explore how different cultures approach prevention, treatment, and the stigma surrounding mental illness. This experience strengthened my critical thinking and cross-cultural communication skills, both essential for a future career in clinical or counseling psychology. I now feel more prepared to work with diverse populations and approach psychological issues with greater cultural sensitivity and empathy.

Another thing that I have realized is, everyone is too afraid to speak up and make meaningful connections these days, no matter where they are in the world, and I would hope that my future self and career will be able to help break that standard for individuals. 

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

Sometimes the best you can do is say “yes” even when it feels intimidating because you can always go back “home” but you cannot always regain those opportunities again. 

Justin Chapa

As a result of immersing myself into the student life and clubs I was blessed with the opportunity to play with my host school’s football team.

NAME: Justin Chapa

MAJOR: Kinesiology

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – University of Roehampton, London Spring 2025

EMAIL: justin.chapa@sjsu.edu

BIO:

I chose to study abroad because I love learning about different cultures and traveling around the world. I chose to study abroad in London because my family and I used to live there, and ever since we left, I have been eager to return. So I saw study abroad as the perfect opportunity to experience school in another country while also being able to learn about the city and country that mean so much to me and my family.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My goals for studying abroad were to learn about the city and country that I am from. I also had goals to build connections with people over in England so I can have a foundation to build something in the future if I decide to go back and live for an extended period of time. I also wanted to travel to other countries I have always dreamed of visiting, especially with my camera so I can get as many pictures as possible. 

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact that study abroad had on me was when I joined the Roehampton Football Club. Even though I joined the club towards the end of the season, I was able to form strong connections with everyone on the team and made lots of friends as a result. We would all go out to watch Premier League and Champions League games at pubs, get food, play football, and support each other on our journey’s, it felt like I knew them my whole life. In just a short period of time, I formed such a strong bond with all my teammates which made Roehampton feel like a second home to me. 

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

My academic experience abroad was super different than what I expected. It definitely challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and make new friends for group projects and socialize with everyone during class as part of the classroom requirements. I feel like the academic structures they had over in Roehampton fit my style, and I was able to get the most out of my education and learn things that I have not yet learned in American education.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? During my study abroad experience, I sharpened my communication skills, social skills, time management, financial literacy, and planning skills. I learned to be more adventurous and try new foods and new activities that I would probably never do back home. As it was my first time living abroad and living alone I learned a lot about myself, my living habits, and worked to improve anything I felt was not adequate enough for the lifestyle I wanted to have while I was abroad and coming back home afterward.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

My immersion during the study abroad program impacted my perspective on the world by showing me that there is more to life than what I have experienced in my hometown thus far. I learned so much about many different cultures through my time abroad which opened my eyes to new experiences that I am fortunate to have the opportunity to share with my peers. I learned so much about the environment and lifestyles of different countries from Morocco to Spain and France. Being able to travel around and visit so many new places and speak to so many different people opened my eyes to how big the world really is. 

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? I built so many connections in London and learned about different career opportunities I can have out there, which opened my eyes to possibly going back there to live, whether it be for school or work.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans? Definitely save as much money as you can. Pack responsibly. Decide what you want to do during your semester abroad before your departure date because that will save you so much time and money.

Nicholas Wang

“Are you not entertained?” Trip to Roman Colosseum

NAME: Nicholas Wang

MAJOR: Kinesiology

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – University of Roehampton, London, England – Spring 2025

EMAIL: nicholas.y.wang@sjsu.edu

BIO:

Hello! My name is Nicholas or Nic and I am a kinesiology student studying to become a physical therapist. I’ve had a long, growing love for watching and playing all types of sports. I love traveling, as I enjoy tasting all types of cuisines and experiencing various cultures. I chose to study abroad in London because I thought it was a fantastic opportunity for me to experience and grow from. I have always dreamed of visiting Europe and my growing love for European soccer only made me want to go more. Being a commuter at SJSU, I’ve also never experienced dorm life, so studying abroad also served as a great opportunity to learn and experience living independently. Being in London would allow me to gain new life experiences in a vastly different city and country and would also make it easier for me to travel to other countries.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad? 

My biggest personal goal abroad was to live like a local in London and find any differences from my own lifestyle. I wanted to develop my skills to live independently and experience living in the dorms. I also wanted to learn and experience various cultures and create meaningful relationships with others in as many countries as possible.

My academic goal was to experience and adapt to a new educational system, while also finding any similarities or differences in my field of kinesiology. Through frequent interactions with my instructors, I sought to establish as many connections with professionals in kinesiology and sports medicine as possible, aligning with my professional goal.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact that my studying abroad experience had on me, apart from an extremely memorable and fun experience, was learning to not take things for granted. Being abroad in London for a semester was the longest I’ve been away from my family and friends. As a result, it was a completely new feeling and I began to miss them very quickly and realized everything that they’ve done for me. On the other hand, I made many new and amazing friends, in which we knew we would be separated after the end of my study abroad program. Wary of my incoming return date back to the US, it led us to maximize the time we had together, rather than take one another for granted. We planned trips together,  set clear dates to hangout, and fully enjoyed each others’ company. Not only did the limited time with my friends make me take it less for granted, but it also made me take advantage of and be grateful for the experience, lifestyle, and culture of London.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

I took part in three courses: Applied Sport and Exercise Science, Sport and Exercise Nutrition, and Content Creation: Travel, Sport, Fashion, and Lifestyle. During this time, I made sure to communicate well and work with new classmates and my instructors. I often used the campus facilities and resources in studying both by myself and with my friends. Most importantly, I interacted a lot more with my instructors during and after class times, through office hours, and through emails. Adapting to a new academic environment led me to interact significantly more with my instructors, especially when I needed help. As a result, I was able to adapt more easily to the demands of the curriculum and perform better. Unlike my years before studying abroad, I plan to communicate more with my SJSU instructors and build better relationships with less hesitancy.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? 

Being abroad has grown my ability and confidence to build connections and socialize easier. Being in a new environment has led me to start talking to a lot more people, most of which have been extremely enjoyable and helpful. As a result, it has made me more willing to socialize with others as it often makes my experience better, allows me to build new connections and friendships, or it just makes my day better with a pleasant experience. Part of my academic and professional goals was also to connect with sports medicine professionals, in which I was able to do and also had a couple interviews with. This also grew my communicative skills in a more professional setting, which I plan to use more on campus and in my work experience. ​​​​​​​

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? 

The study abroad program has furthered my perspective on the world for its similarities and differences, but also its culture and history. London, like many of the other cities and countries in the UK and Europe, are rich with history. Seeing the oldest church of London right next to one of the newest and modern buildings in central London gave me a great grasp on the mix of architecture and history and made me so much more curious about the history that occurred in various European countries, but also around the world. We have always learned about the large major historical events, but this study abroad trip has exposed me to the little stories scattered throughout history that I would’ve never known otherwise. As a result, it has made me want to learn more of the history of locations and how they may affect the cultures of various ethnic groups and countries. In addition, it also makes me more curious of the differences in every city and country and how they have developed from their history compared to what is present in the Bay area. ​​​​​​​

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? 

Experiencing my dream of watching my favorite soccer team play multiple times, in addition to talking to sport field professionals has only made me more ambitious for my goal of becoming a physical therapist. They were both big factors for me to start embarking this path and both of these moments were large reminders of my goals. In addition, living by myself has given me a brief but better grasp of what it might feel like living alone, more so in a different environment. This may occur when I move to study, work somewhere else, or even once I move out from my childhood home, in which I am a bit more prepared and know what to expect when living alone. Studying abroad also allowed me to travel to other countries which furthered my love and curiosity to travel to experience more cultures and environments around the world.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

The first thing I would tell a future Global Spartan is that their experience abroad is what they make of it. They should make the most of this experience but in ways that are unique to them. They should explore a mix of familiar and new experiences, such as attending concerts if they enjoy music but also trying out a new club activity. Part of this may include socializing more, as well as branching out of their comfort zones, but it is part of making the most of their global trip. I would also recommend them to create a list early on and add as they progress through their time. This way, they always have something to do or ideas to explore and they can plan a few things earlier on, which I would highly recommend. Lastly, I would like to mention that it is okay to have some breaks or off days. A bit contradictory to the first statement but just as important is to take breaks. There is often a lot going on and being in a new environment can be overwhelming at times, so it is ok to take a day off or a break at times if needed. Otherwise, experiences won’t be as fun or memorable if they’re burnt out. ​​​​​​​

Josie Hammar

Josie Hammar

MAJOR: English/Creative Writing

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange –  University of Roehampton, England

EMAIL:  sisterjenny@jbear.org

BIO: My name is Josie Hammar and I am about to enter my fourth year at SJSU. I am studying English Literature because I have a passion for writing and reading stories that make an impact. I studied abroad in London during my spring 2024 semester and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I chose to do this for quite a few reasons, the first one being that I wanted to explore a world outside of the only one I’ve ever known here in the bay area. I wanted to be in a place where no one already knew me, where I could make my own friendships and connections as who I am now. Additionally, since I am studying English Literature I thought it would be appropriate to study at the heart of this major; in England. In my time there I traveled so much and learned immensely about their culture and history, as well as in the classes I took. I also wanted to be able to have new, riveting, life changing experiences in a place I had never before been to. I’ve always lived in the same place my whole life and I craved something new and thrilling.

LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEER, AND JOB EXPERIENCES:I have taken part in many leadership/volunteer opportunities. For example, I am currently a mentor for the youth group at Sant Clara First Baptist Church and have been in this role for two years, and have been a camp counselor for two years as well. I have also volunteered at elementary schools and helped lead other nonprofit church events. For work experience, I was a barista at Teaspoon for over a year, and worked as a customer service associate at Sally Beauty Supply for about two months. And I am about to start a new job as a barista at Coffee and Water Lab.

GOALS: One goal I had was to change and grow as a person. I wanted to have my mind blown by all the new people I would meet, the places I would see and experiences I would have. I wanted to walk out of this journey different than who I was at the start. Another goal I had was to thrive independently, to be fully immersed in another culture and learn from the people there, and gain invaluable knowledge from my classes. I wanted to travel and experience different worlds than what I was used to. My other goal was to make lifelong friendships. And all of these, I am happy to say I have achieved.

ACADEMICS: I took three classes. One was based on Greek and roman mythology, the other was a creative and professional writing class, and the last was literature based on film and philosophy. These are actually the first classes I took for my major now that I’ve completed my GE’s, so I went into them with excitement and motivation. In order to succeed, I made sure to be fully immersed in learning everything we were taught, and often consulted with my professors. It also helped that I was really passionate about everything we studied in these classes. Now that I’ve done school abroad, I am very much looking forward to taking more classes here at SJSU with a fresh perspective and hopefully can apply what I learned overseas.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: I not only met people from England, but from all over Europe as well as Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America. Being surrounded by those who weren’t just American was definitely a cultural shock for me, but it was also a very beautiful and eye opening experience.

CAREER: My communication, networking, and independence skills have all sharpened during my time abroad. Being a new student I was forced to meet as many people as I could, and I am very grateful for this because it led me to some of the most amazing people. Since I’ve been back I feel that I am able to better apply all of these in my daily and academic life. Overall, I am a much more confident and motivated person that is eager to get to know more people from different cultures.

PERSONAL GROWTH: This entire journey was the greatest decision I’ve ever made for myself. It was something so unfathomably new and exciting, but ultimately very liberating. This was the biggest impact for me. After going to a new country by myself and making an entire life there, I feel that I can achieve anything. It definitely put me in a vulnerable position at first but I believe that I needed to feel that way in order to see what I could do and build from the ground up. I want other students to be able to experience this as well.

IDENTITIES: When I first started college I struggled with severe anxiety and was at a very low point in my life. I never thought I would be able to do something such as study abroad, and yet every decision I’ve made since the start of my college experience led me here. It has helped me to realize that I’m much stronger than I give myself credit for.

FUTURE: Study abroad has prepared me for the future by helping me to expand my traveling, independence, communication, and networking skills as well as my knowledge of other countries and cultures. I can use all of this information in my future opportunities, friendships and careers.

TIPS: Trying something new is never a waste. Even the smallest decision you make can change your life in ways you never thought possible. Studying abroad is the best choice I ever made and it changed my life immensely. I’m much more confident, have friends and memories I’ll never forget, and have experienced a journey that most people have not. If you’re able to take this chance, do it and put all of your heart into it. You never know what may come out of an opportunity such as this or how it will shape you and your future. 

Alycia Low

Alycia Low

Alycia Low (alum)
Major: Public Relations and Minored in Professional and Technical Writing
Term Abroad: Fall 2017
Program / Location: SJSU Exchange University of Roehampton, London, UK
Position Title: Recruiting Coordinator
Employer: Roblox

How did your study abroad experience help you with your coursework once you returned to SJSU?
Overall I think my experience helped me become more confident when it came to social interactions with my classmates. It also helped me see things from a different perspective. Having gone abroad, I recognized that there were other ways to approach questions I had about the world.

How did your study abroad experience help strengthen your job prospects?
It definitely helped me stand out as a candidate and was often a topic of conversation when interviewing. They would ask about my experience abroad and how that has shaped me. For me, studying abroad has really shaped the way I think about my career. It’s what led me to my position as a Study Abroad Student Assistant, which has helped me realize I want to go down this career path in recruiting/HR.

Please describe any skills you learned abroad that you are applying in your current academic, professional, or personal life.
Going abroad and having that experience has taught me how to have more grace and compassion for those around me who are from different parts of the world. While I was in the UK/Europe, I was a minority (as an Asian-American) and it helped me appreciate other cultures, including my own, even more!

What is the most memorable experience or moment from your time abroad?
During my last couple of weeks in the UK, I had the opportunity to travel alone in Scotland. This was probably one of the best decisions I had made. It taught me how to be self-sufficient and brought a whole new perspective on travelling. I had the unique experience of eating alone for consecutive meals, for example, and even asking fellow tourists/locals for directions or photos. Through this trip, I was also able to fully embrace the boldness I had learned over the past few months abroad, which helped me to be more confident in my social interactions and even my decisions.

What other experiences do you wish you had optimized while abroad to help you in your career path?
Although I had a great time in London, I do wish I had the opportunity to try living abroad for a longer period of time and maybe even challenge myself to go somewhere out of the ordinary. I also wish I was told that it’s okay not to travel all of Europe in that one semester, and that it’s okay to just sit and absorb what my home city has to offer. I was constantly travelling every weekend that I don’t feel like I truly got to experience London and all that it has to offer.

Any other advice to current Spartans about maximizing the study abroad experience? 
As I mentioned before, I’d highly encourage students to take time to really take in your home city/country. There’s so much your city has to offer and your program will be over before you know it, so really take it in. I think there’s a lot of pressure people put on folks (at least travelling to Europe) to explore as much as you can, but I really wish someone told me this before I planned all of these trips. This was my first time to Europe and I wish I had taken the time to get to know the folks and areas around me.

Abigail Alcain

Abigail Alcain

NAME: Abigail Alcain
MAJOR: Biological Sciences
TERM: Spring 2022
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange University of Roehampton, UK
EMAIL: alcainabigail@gmail.com

Why did you want to study abroad? 
Studying abroad was a great opportunity for me to experience new places and meet people from different backgrounds. I had the opportunity to advance my career by networking with international professors and classmates during my program.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
A surprising experience that I have noticed is that I live on one of the four campuses here, and I live on the campus that’s far away from the main campus. I was surprised that this college was separated from all the others and distinctly far from the main one. But all my classes and labs are in my current college anyways so I don’t have to go to the main campus unless it’s for a social event or for the library. Another challenging experience is the transportation, all transportation is taken by bus or train, and I am not used to public transportation as much as I am now because that is how I get everywhere, and especially most places near me take about 30 minutes to an hour to get somewhere.

Any advice to potential study abroad students?
For potential study abroad students, would probably be to study what norms take place at that specific country beforehand. And definitely make sure all the financials are taking care of (such as if you need a new phone number/SIM card, a bank, transportation card). Also make sure you know where the nearest hospital is just in case.

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic?
I have managed to keep my academics controlled bye renting all the textbooks and materials required for my classes. I also depend on the online moodle (CANVAS) for notifications from professors as well as accessing the lectures and videos required.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community ?
I have definitely met many people within the community of my area, and they have helped me explore around London and we try new foods and visit in new places and overall had fun!

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic?
Make sure to have your insurance on hand at all times, especially on your phone in case you have any major injuries. As well make sure you tell someone where you are at and never go alone.