Jacob Schwinghammer ’25

Program: London Semester

Major: Biochemistry

Minor: Neuroscience

Additional Activity: SJU Football

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

I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to travel Europe and live in one of the biggest cities in the world. The London program allowed me to do both, all while immersing myself in a new culture and create life-long connections.

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

I had the pleasure of attending a Premier League football game between Chelsea and Everton with my close friends. This was unlike any sporting event I have attended in the states, and showed me how passionate people are about their interests. The festivities around game day tied to the pregame atmosphere was something that embodied exactly what European football boasts on a global scale.

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?

Studying abroad allows you to become more mature and grow on your own, in a new environment, and provides an experience that is truly unforgettable. Studying abroad allowed me to indulge and learn about new cultures and understand that there are more important things than what happens in the United States. The time abroad helped me sharpen my travel skills and professional development as I had to advocate and fend for myself as most of my support was at home. Working at an internship and commuting by myself in one of the busiest cities in the world helped me develop a new level of responsibility and trust in myself. Academically, I had to learn to manage my time well and take advantage of the knowledge portrayed that was centered specifically around London.

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

The opportunity to live in a foreign country and learn about new traditions and cultures, at the age and price available, will only be presented once. It is a privilege to be able to study abroad and every second of it should be cherished. The money will come and go but the lessons, memories, and connections made will last a lifetime.