Sydney Burns ’25

Program: London Semester

Major: Biology

Minor: Exercise and Health Science

Additional Activity: CSB Varsity Soccer

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?

Study abroad was always something I wanted to do. I decided on London because I wanted to live in a big city and interact with many different cultures and people and London was the perfect place to do that.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.

Learning British humor was definitely a change because they are often self-deprecating and very sarcastic compared to living in Minnesota. It was fun to get to know a different sort of funny and I ended up really enjoying it.

Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

Spending the entire semester in London was so rewarding because not only did I get a deep cultural experience of the U.K. and London, but I could get to so many countries to see many different cultures. London is specifically very cool because of how big it is. Each borough of London has its own charm and culture and stepping off the tube felt like I was in a new city at every stop!

What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?

Take the jump. It may be scary, but do it. You will grow so much. Embrace new friendships and new cultures because you will truly learn so much about yourself and others when you fully open yourself up to this experience.