How Leaving the U.S. to Study Abroad Changed My Life
Initially, I was hesitant to study abroad. Having never traveled outside of America, I knew I was committing to learning a new way of life and being alone in an unfamiliar country. Despite these uncertainties, taking this leap of faith taught me things about myself and allowed me to experience a new way of life and culture. For that, I will be forever grateful.
Exploring music through a global lens
I found IFSA at a study abroad fair at Amherst and was drawn to the flexibility and support they offered. I chose to study at SOAS in London to explore music from a global and cultural view— something my home school did not offer. As a musician, I learned alongside people from diverse backgrounds. Classes like The Music Business and Decolonizing K Pop taught me about the global music industry and cultural influences, which are important to understanding music wholly. The diverse study body at SOAS particularly helped me connect more deeply to my Ghanaian identity from musical and personal perspectives.
“My experience at SOAS taught me the importance of understanding music from a global lens.”
Finding support abroad through family and IFSA
Meeting my cousins in London was one of the most valuable parts of my study abroad experience. Having family close by gave me a sense of comfort and support while I adjusted to a new environment and met new people.
However, my time abroad was not without challenges. For one, my phone was stolen, which made it hard to stay positive at first. However, IFSA was very supportive throughout the situation. One staff member, Georgia Smith, was especially helpful in making sure I got a new phone and felt supported. After that, I was able to enjoy the rest of my time abroad by making lasting friendships, traveling to new places, and learning more about myself as a musician.
Travel and basketball: keys to belonging
Along with growing as a musician and meeting family, I went on many excursions during my time abroad. Thanks to IFSA, I visited historic sites like Stonehenge and the Roman Baths, and beautiful cities like Bath. These trips helped me connect with other students and locals. I also attended soccer and rugby games, which are an important part of culture in London. Playing club basketball allowed me to share a bit of my culture by teaching others how basketball is played in the U.S. I valued the chance to both learn and give back.
Bringing global lessons home
Looking back, studying and traveling abroad gave me a new perspective on the world and myself. I explored new interests, tried different foods, met new people, and experienced other ways of life. Being part of so many different communities helped me appreciate other cultures and what they bring to music. My experience at SOAS in particular piqued my artistic interest and taught me the importance of understanding music from not only a theoretical perspective but from a global lens. Every day abroad was a learning experience, and I am extremely happy to bring those experiences home.
Axel A. | Amherst College | SOAS, University of London Partnership, England | Spring 2025