Toni Coulson

University Degree Title: MMath with a year Study in North America
Host University: University of Maryland at College Park
Year of Study Abroad: 3rd Year

Where did you live? Would you recommend it?

I lived in university accommodation on the South Hill campus. The location was perfect and I couldn´t have asked more of my accommodation. In America you have to be prepared to share your room but I was lucky enough to get on extremely well with my room-mate so that wasn´t a problem. It was catered and although the food wasn´t always the best, it was much better than having to go to the supermarket because I didn´t have a car in America and all of the supermarkets were far away.

Which department(s) did you study in?

I studied in the Maths department.

How does the workload/classes/teaching styles vary to Sheffield?

In America, I found the workload to be much greater than that of Sheffield. The lectures were much smaller and I found them a lot more interactive. I would compare my classes in America to be a lot more like classes I had in sixth form. The examination process was a lot less formal than England with exams being held in the classroom and some lecturers bringing food and drink for you to have while completing the exam. There are also a lot less holidays, no Easter holidays and no reading weeks or study leave.

What did you do for fun/ at weekends / holidays?

As I was so close to DC I went there often. There were a lot of tourist sites to visit and museums etc. It was also only 4 hours to New York city so I went there a few times. It´s also very close to Baltimore and Philadelphia. There are a lot of restaurants in DC and there are a few college bars next to the University. During the American football season and Basketball season, we went to a lot of games as the tickets are free for students.

Describe the University/City/things to do

At the university union they had pool tables and a bowling alley. They had an outdoor swimming pool and an indoor one. The gym and gym classes are free for students, as well as entry to college sports games. In the city there are a lot of free museums (Smithsonian Museums) and many tourists sights to visit.

Could you give any travel or immigration tips?

Travel lightly and have all of your documents in a separate folder close at hand. You will need your visa (in passport) and your DS-2019. You will also need the I-94 card (white) which you get on the plane and remember to have your America address as you will need this for your I-94.

Could you give any advice or tips to a student preparing to go or tell them anything you wished you knew in advance?

Have no expectations, go there with a very open mind and just enjoy every moment of it! Meet as many people as possible and visit as many places as possible. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity…Make the most of it, it will fly over!

Would you say it is cheaper or more expensive to live than Sheffield?

More expensive accommodation but cheaper to socialise etc. Do not forget Americans expect tips (even if the service wasn´t great) and when shopping VAT is added at the till.