“It was like living a dream for four months straight”.

We caught up with fourth-year History student Logan Howarth to hear all about his experience studying abroad. He shares what inspired him to take the leap, how he settled into life overseas, the highlights of his time away, and his advice for other students thinking about studying abroad themselves.

Hi Logan! Tell us, what was it that made you want to study abroad?

I’ve wanted to study abroad since I was in school. I always liked the idea of being a transfer student somewhere like America but never had the opportunity. So when I came to Stirling and heard about the Study Abroad Programme, I was like, “I’m definitely doing this!” And again, my mind was set on America – the university culture just seemed like it was on a totally different scale.

Did you know which college you wanted to go to when you applied to study abroad?

I didn’t at first, but I was given a list of countries and schools to choose from. There were 12 universities in America I could apply to based on my course. After attending a Study Abroad Open Day at the University and chatting with a student about Charleston in South Carolina, I did some research and decided that’s where I wanted to go. It just looked awesome.

How did you feel when your application was accepted?

I was absolutely delighted! I remember sitting in Underground on campus when the email came through. I saw that I’d been accepted, but I didn’t know which university it was for at first (I’d put Charleston as my first choice but also had a back-up). When it was confirmed that I was going to Charleston, I was over the moon. It was finally happening.

What was the support like from Stirling’s Study Abroad Team?

They were great. I remember firing off emails like there was no tomorrow, and they were really quick to get back to me. They walked me through each step of the process, which helped a lot – especially since things like applying for a visa were completely new to me.

They also put me in touch with students who’d already studied abroad, so I got to hear their experiences and pick up some advice.

How did you settle in once you arrived in South Carolina?

Although I’d moved away for university in first and second year, I’d never been abroad on my own before, so it was important to keep a familiar home routine. I made sure to do things like wake up at the same time and have my usual breakfasts – it helped create a sense of normality.

I also decorated my room with posters and photos of family and friends. The rooms are quite bare when you arrive, so I wanted to make it feel like my own – since it was going to be home for a few months.

What helped you make friends once you were there?

My living situation really helped – having flatmates was a great way to get to know people.

Charleston also had a really good Study Abroad Team who organised events during the first few weeks. Everyone who went to those was in the same boat, so it was easy to connect with people. And going to classes helped a lot too – my classmates (and lecturers) were really interested in where I was from because of my accent!

What was your most memorable experience?

It’s so hard to choose. The pep rallies were definitely up there, and so were the basketball games – I wasn’t even into basketball before I went!

But if I had to pick one, I’d say the day a group of us rented a boat and went out on Charleston Harbour. We blasted music and just enjoyed a few drinks – it was a really chilled day.

…actually – I lied, I can’t pick just one. The travelling was amazing too. Going to New York and seeing the Statue of Liberty – that was a real “I’ve made it” moment. It was pretty emotional.

What’s your biggest takeaway from studying abroad?

Just taking in a different culture and meeting people from all sorts of backgrounds.

I also learned how to be more independent, and I think my confidence has grown massively. I look back and think “I survived four months in a different country”. That’s a huge achievement.

What would you say to other students who are thinking about studying abroad?

100% do it. It’s the experience of a lifetime, and it really is life-changing. It felt like living a dream for four months straight.

The friends you make, the opportunities you have, and the experience you gain – they stay with you forever.

Find out more about the University of Stirling’s Study Abroad Programme on our website.