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Phoebe Black: Royal Holloway - University of London (Semester 1/2009)


Program at UQ: Bachelor of Arts

After much discussion, anxiety, frustration “umming” and “ahhing” I finally made it to Royal Holloway University of London. London was an easy choice as I study drama within my Arts degree and this city has a buffet of theatre offered daily. It was nerve-racking diving into new classes with new students and new lecturers but the people at this University are more than happy to welcome and befriend you. Academically, Royal Holloway is a friendly and encouraging environment where any opinion is accepted and valued. It was unusual being the new student with the “funny accent” constantly being bombarded with questions involving kangaroos and Ramsay Street.

Despite these lovable English folk, I became very good friends with other exchange students. They were mostly from the United States and my friends and family were very confused when I returned home with a slight American accent after studying in England for the past six months.

My favourite English site – Stonehenge! Hospital? Place of worship? Alien discotheque? No one knows.. Photo of Phoebe in front of Royal Holloway - "I lived in a castle!"

England became my home and after travelling around Europe during my breaks – seeing places like Germany and Greece – I felt a sense of ease coming back to my little dorm room.

I will always consider England one of my homes even now that I am back in Australia. Though I was absolutely panicked at the idea of being alone in a foreign country the experience is incredible. Looking back now it seems like a dream because every minute was inspiring. I feel more independent, capable and mature having done this exchange and though there were some awful periods of homesickness the positive aspects hugely outweigh the negative. This is something I will never forget.