For anyone who isn't aware, Wroxton College is an FDU campus in England. For the past 50 years, Wroxton has been considered a second home for hundreds of students at FDU and other campus across the U.S. It's actually like going to Hogwarts since you're basically living in a 17th century manor house, and the experience of being there is more magical than any of the adventures Harry Potter went on (I'm probably exaggerating, but you get my point).
As amazing as Wroxton seems, it can be super overwhelming and intimidating. After all, you are thousands of miles away from home, learning in a completely new environment, and traveling every weekend to explore new places. However, there are tons of ways to feel more at home to the Abbey and to get the most out of your Wroxton experience. So whether you're in Wroxton now or want to go in the future; here is some advice from the girl who went and the most incredible time of her life.
Bring your books and pillows on the bus. Usually, every trip you go on is about two hours away from the Abbey. Learning to get comfortable and entertaining yourself on the bus is an art form in itself. The neck pillows you see at the airport are Heaven sent and make it a little more easier to take a nap. If you don't like napping or can't nap on the bus, bring your books or homework! I probably did more of my homework on the bus than in the library.
Pick up a small hobby. Living with the same 45 people for 4 months can be overwhelming so having some alone time can be very therapeutic. However, being consumed by your own thoughts and anxieties isn't fun either. Picking up on a hobby like reading, walking, knitting, writing in your journal, or even binge-watching a show on Netflix can really clear your mind of all the stressful things that comes along with studying abroad.
Get your INTER Papers done now. 75% of you will probably wait until the last two days to finish these papers. Just get them out of the way now. You don't want to be the girl that cried for three hours, missed lunch and tea time, and handed them in 20 minutes before the due time (Hi, yes that was me and it was really stressful). Just do yourself a favor and get them done early. You'll thank yourself later.
It's a different learning environment and it'll take some time to get used to. Don't feel bad if you didn't get the best grade on a paper, tutorial, or midterm. It's a different learning environment over there than it is over here. Chances are, you'll get an amazing grade at the end of the semester if you just take your professor's notes and work hard. Just listen to your professors and do what they ask for in your work. As long as you try your hardest and be the best student you can be, it'll all work itself out in the end.
Save your money. I know it's exciting and seems like a great idea to go out to White Horse, Moo Moo's, and AKA every single night, but you'll be kicking yourself in the butt at the end of the semester when all your money is gone. Save your money for travel break, weekend trips, Paris, Scotland, London, and all the other fun places you'll want to go to.
Take advantage of every opportunity and have no regrets. This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Don't waste a second of it. There may be times where the homesickness seems unbearable or the classes seem too hard, but always remember that there are people who won't be able to have the same incredible experience you do. You get to travel the world and have the time of your life. Live it up, take pictures, call your mom (she'll be really happy to hear from you), write in your journal, and take ever opportunity given to you. Also, tell John I said hi!