Emilie Pannell

Home University: University of Illinois
Home University Degree Title: Bachelor of Arts in Urban and Regional Planning

Why did you choose Sheffield?

The University of Illinois suggested your program, as it allows for easy credit transfers between universities. I also really liked the location of Sheffield – centrally located and in an English speaking country.

Where did you live?

I lived in Victoria Hall. This is a good location for study abroad students (near city centre and most pubs).

What did you do for fun/ at weekends?

We did a lot of travelling on the weekends, in England and to other countries. It is extremely easy to get from one place to the next. We also participated in several in and out-of-town Give-it-a-Go´s – what a fantastic idea these are!!! When we were in Sheffield, we shopped in and visited the city centre, shopped in several specialty shops in the city, went to the pubs/dance clubs at night, sampled as many restaurants in the area as we could.

Which department(s) did you study in?

Town and Regional Planning

How does the workload/classes/teaching styles vary to back at home?

The workload and teaching style were both very different from back home. At home, we typically have homework on a daily basis (other than simply reading). Rather than the final grade depending on several projects at home, the grade could depend on just two assignments in Sheffield. Out of class work is less guided at Sheffield; they expect you to do more independent work and to guide your own learning. Difficulty level was about the same, however.

Describe Sheffield in a short paragraph

The University of Sheffield was an extremely welcoming university. I felt comfortable and at home nearly upon arrival. I was extremely impressed with most of my advisors and instructors as they were more than willing to go out of their way to help, especially for those from abroad, and were very articulate and knowledgeable in their specific subject area. The university has an active student body and provides several activites in which you can participate. The city itself has a great night life for students and great city centre with specialty shops. The train station is near the university, so any travelling you plan to do is very convenient.

If you could give advice to a prospective student thinking of choosing Sheffield, what would you say?

If you are truly looking to experience university life in England, Sheffield is a great place for it. There are many activities you can become involved with and many ways to meet new people.

Could you give any advice or tips to a student preparing to come to Sheffield or tell them anything you wished you knew in advance.

Be as open to new people and experiences as you possible can. Living in a foreign country is possibly a once in a lifetime experience, and you certainly would not want to miss anything. Take advantage of the Give-it-a-Go trips and lessons. They are a great way to meet new people and try new things.

Any other information or comment

Make sure to bring a sturdy umbrella! It is bound to rain several times and my umbrella barely survived the semester! Also bring good walking shoes and a good bag for travelling. Make sure to bring some pictures to put up in your room as it makes being so far away from home much less difficult. Use Skype!! It is the easiest and cheapest way to talk to your friends and family from home!