Follow our experience everyday
Day 1 – Monday May 13
Who would have imagined that the first UTeach Study Abroad program would kick off with an adventure at Gatwick Airport? With the flight arriving early and the pick-up running late, our journey began with a twist. Despite the fatigue we eventually made it to Brighton. Although it was too early for check-in to the Old Ship Hotel, where we are staying, our hunger and eagerness led us to savor the quintessential English breakfast at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
Ah, British weather—predictably unpredictable. As if on cue, a gentle drizzle greeted us as we stepped out of the restaurant. But did that dampen our spirits? Not a chance. With eager anticipation, the students couldn’t wait to hit the beach. It was indeed an experience for them to walk on a pebbly beach.
My plan to tire out the students in an exploration of Brighton whilst awaiting for checking-in took an unexpected turn. Leading them through the the Palace Pier Arcade proved to be a hit—perhaps too much of one. When I finally got them to leave, the rain had lifted and hotel check-in was imminent.
I believe the arcade experience also provided an education of the value of the British coins. Nhuy, for instance, dove into the intricate calculations of British currency, discovering the surprising value of a single English pound in 2p coins.
After a much-needed rest, refreshed and rejuvenated, the students were ready to experience the warmth of English hospitality. Our destination? The iconic Black Lion Pub.
Regardless of the many traditional British dishes on the menu (including fishfinger sandwich and bangers & mash), the highly adventurous STEM majors were tempted by Fish and Chips with Mushy Peas—after all, what better way to inaugurate our time in this charming country?
But the culinary adventure didn’t end there. As glasses were raised and conversations flowed, an intriguing discovery was made: the subtle yet distinct difference between English Lemonade and its American counterpart. The verdict was unanimous—our taste buds favored the tangy sweetness of the English version, a delightful revelation on our first day in England. Cheers!
Day 2 – Tuesday May 14
Today was a day of nostalgia and excitement for me as it was our first day at the University of Sussex, a place that holds a special significance in my heart. The thrill of riding on the top deck of the number 25 double-decker bus added an extra layer of excitement to our adventure.
As the bus approached the university, memories from my own student days came flooding back. I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement to show my students the very campus where I once walked as a student myself. Stepping off the bus and onto familiar ground, I couldn’t shake the feeling of gratitude for the experiences I had here.
As we entered the building, we were greeted by Professor Simon Thompson, the Head of the School of Education and Social Work, and Dr. Fi Branagh, Senior Lecturer, and Lead Science Curriculum Tutor.
After a short welcome and introduction to Brighton, Dr. Branagh gave us a tour of the university. For me, the campus tour was literally a trip down memory lane. While I noticed new buildings and progressive changes, the campus seemed to whisper tales of my past, reminding me of the person I was and the journey that led me to where I am today.
The most surprising aspect of the campus tour was discovering the campus pubs. It’s not every day that you come across such a unique feature in an academic setting, well certainly not at UMass Lowell! And, you might be surprised to learn that there are not one, not two, but three pubs right here on campus at the University of Sussex.
In England, the legal drinking age is 18, and what better way to experience university life than by enjoying a pint with friends right where you study?
After the tour, it was time to dive into learning. Professor Thompson introduced Effective Pedagogy, Reflective Practice, Professional Knowledge, and challenged students through engaging Lego activities. More than play, these exercises refined critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. With Legos, education transcended traditional bounds, fostering dynamic learning experiences. The students built ducks, towers, and my favorite, build using Legos the answer to the question “What do you think makes effective STEM teaching and learning?”
After a morning of excitement and a delightful lunch, Dr. Branagh took the reins, guiding the students through a lively and humorous discussion comparing the British and American education systems. Questions flowed freely, and eager participants shared their diverse school experiences. Before we realized it, the clock struck 4:00 p.m., marking the end of our first day at the University. We wrapped up with an enjoyable gathering, mingling with fellow faculty members over a scrumptious spread of pizza and prosecco.
After returning to the hotel, the group split into two camps: those yearning for rest and others eager to join me on a stroll through along the beach. Little did they know the short walk I’d planned stretched farther than anticipated. Yet, with the sun still casting a warm glow at 6:45 p.m., we ventured forth.
Brighton’s charm unfolded before us—nightclubs pulsated with energy, bars beckoned with promises of camaraderie, and the whimsy of crazy golf teased our senses. With each step, students discovered something new. Some asked me why I left this charming city. I guess if I hadn’t left, I wouldn’t enjoy it as much when I returned.
As the sun bid farewell, the students’ cravings for snacks led us to my go-to spot: Sainsbury’s. There, they indulged in typically British treats—chocolates, cakes, and biscuits, rarely found back in the USA. And you know what else you won’t find back in the USA, hotdogs in a jar – the shocking discovery of the day!
