What’s it like to spend your first semester of college studying abroad in London?

For Oxford College students in the London Launch program, it means experiencing college life in a new country, exploring a city full of history and culture, and building friendships along the way. Between classes, weekend travels, and learning to navigate life on their own, students gain experiences that stay with them long after they return to campus.

We caught up with three students from last year’s London Launch cohort to hear about their favorite memories, what they learned about themselves, and their advice for future participants. They also share what it was like returning to Oxford College and finding their place in the campus community.

Noelle Saldana

What was your favorite memory from the London Launch program, and why does it stand out to you?

My favorite experience during the program was the cultural immersion and the independence gained within a huge city. Learning and adapting to the new “norms,” such as dressing business casual most days (meaning no sweatpants outside) or not eating on the go, was a completely novel experience. Even navigating London forced my peers and me out of our comfort zones. Whether we were visiting the Natural History Museum, walking through Hyde Park, or simply passing by Big Ben (or the Elizabeth Tower as locals call it) after class, these moments made the city feel like an extension of our learning experience.

How did studying abroad change you personally?

Studying abroad definitely forced me out of my comfort zone and taught me true independence (without my parents’ help). I had to navigate a new city, with a different culture, and manage daily tasks as a student living in a new place. It also pushed me to start cooking for myself — even though I completely hate cooking, it was a huge growth moment.  Returning to Ox, I felt more comfortable handling college pressures and able to adapt.

What advice would you give to students preparing for London Launch? What should they know about packing, budgeting, transportation, or adjusting to life in London?

One piece of advice I wish I knew before going to London is to travel more. Classes end on Thursdays, which leaves plenty of time to go to different cities across Europe, and I really want to emphasize how important it is to take full advantage of that extra time. While exploring London is an incredible experience, don’t hesitate to book weekend trips around Europe. London is a good home base, but venturing out to explore other cities and countries will give you some of the most unforgettable memories of your semester abroad.

What was it like returning to Oxford after spending a semester abroad? Was there anything about the transition that surprised you?

My biggest fear about coming back from study abroad was what my adjustment back to Oxford would be like. I was so nervous that everyone had already formed permanent friend groups and that I wouldn’t have a place here. However, I was pleasantly shocked during the first day back when students introduced themselves and welcomed me back to campus. Everyone was genuinely curious about my experience abroad, and I quickly realized that the Oxford community is far more fluid and inclusive than I had feared. People were eager to reconnect, integrate new perspectives into their circles, and make room at the table for everyone returning.

Andres Guzman Orozco

What was your favorite memory from the London Launch program, and why does it stand out to you?

One of my favorite memories had to be the time spent with my peers and friends studying at the University of College London’s Senate House Library. From being told to quiet down in one of their rooms, to simply diving deep into their wide array of primary and secondary sources, I felt alive and engaged in the academics I was learning. Whenever my friends and I took study breaks, we always went to a nearby cafe to get coffee and warm bagels with nutella! Likewise, our mental health walks full of positive affirmations always had us ready to devour our coursework!

How did studying abroad change you personally?

Studying abroad taught me to navigate a foreign environment and be independent. From traveling to different countries alone, to talking to people in English and Spanish at local stores or coffee shops, I learned to be comfortable alone and at peace with myself. Whether it was going on runs and walks near a park and reservoir, or going to the local gym in Walthamstow, I developed a valid routine that kept me stable in London. In an environment where one constantly sees different people everyday, it really felt nice to develop a community with the cohort and the areas I frequented too.

What advice would you give to students preparing for London Launch? What should they know about packing, budgeting, transportation, or adjusting to life in London?

I would say learn to pack light. It may seem like you want to take everything, but London has so many things to offer, from simply grocery shopping, or buying new clothes, it is a place for you to explore. One non-negotiable, however, is an item or two from home. These remind you to stay grounded and that you are not alone in your journey being abroad! Also, when going anywhere in general, have an open-mind and be willing to adapt. Not everything may be held to your expectation, and while I felt at home, it was very noticeable when others were not willing to adapt. This goes for anywhere, not just London, especially as someone who has studied abroad in Spain, and as someone who pursued a global learning course. Be ready to acclaim yourself and do not be afraid to still be yourself! You are afterall what will make London a more special place than it already is; she welcomes with open arms!

What was it like returning to Oxford after spending a semester abroad? Was there anything about the transition that surprised you?

When returning to Oxford, I was surprised how easy it was to get involved. From joining organizations in the Atlanta campus, to pursuing executive board positions at Oxford, I felt like I belonged. Plus, having the faculty that went with us to London stay at Oxford and continue their studies and lectures, helped make the transition process feel easier, since they were there to support us!

Caitlin Savage

What was your favorite memory from the London Launch program, and why does it stand out to you?

My favorite memory was being able to cook dinner with all of my flatmates. There were moments throughout the semester when we felt homesick, so having that sense of found family with my friends around a family-style meal was especially meaningful. I loved cooking together and teaching others how to cook, because it gave us a fun and easy way to connect, spend time together, and make our flat feel like home.

How did studying abroad change you personally?

Being abroad gave me a sense of independence I didn’t know I was capable of. Yes, it was daunting to be away from home for the first time, especially in another country, but experiencing it alongside a group of 50 other peers made it feel more exciting than scary. Even simple things, like going to the grocery store by yourself or learning how to budget, suddenly felt more meaningful because you were responsible for yourself and your own decisions. It was through these everyday experiences that I gained confidence in my ability to navigate life on my own, which made returning to Oxford for the spring semester feel like a piece of cake!

What advice would you give to students preparing for London Launch? What should they know about packing, budgeting, transportation, or adjusting to life in London?

My biggest piece of advice would be to pack light! I only brought one large suitcase because I know myself, and I knew I would come home with more stuff than I left with. I actually planned to buy a second suitcase in London, which I easily filled thanks to my love for thrifting and gift-giving (there were so many souvenirs for people back home!). If you’re like me and love to shop, definitely pack lighter than you think you need to so you have plenty of room for everything you’ll find along the way.

What was it like returning to Oxford after spending a semester abroad? Was there anything about the transition that surprised you?

The transition back to Oxford was incredibly smooth because thankfully the program is designed to make it that way. All clubs and organizations on campus are required to reserve spots for London Launch students when they return in the spring, which is actually how I ended up becoming a tour guide! On top of that, everyone is so eager to meet the London students and hear about their experiences. You’ll return to Oxford with a welcoming community ready to hear your stories, making the transition back feel exciting rather than overwhelming.