Written by Sofia Vuong
Broaden Your Worldview
Kendrah is an International Studies and Global Health double major. Both of her majors work perfectly for the program that she was on. She mentioned the urge to immerse herself in different cultures and to find out about places that are different from her own, was a significant drive for the abroad journey. “It really shapes your worldview,” Kendrah said. Kendrah went abroad through the IES Abroad London: Health Practice and Policy program during the Spring semester of 2025. The majority of the program was based in London and she also got a chance to travel to Jamaica as a part of her abroad experience.
Academically, she knew that studying abroad was something that she always wanted to do. As someone who grew up in Ghana and is already going to school in America, Kendrah had an idea of what study abroad is about and she has enjoyed it so far.
“It’s changed a lot of my mindsets and views. I think it has helped me develop as a person,” she mentioned.
Kendrah believes that if she has the opportunity to continue broadening her worldview, she wouldn’t miss out on it; especially when it means she has the chance to go to two different places that she never thought of and study topics that she’s passionate about, like health practices and policy.
As a part of the learning curve, it wasn’t easy. Kendrah shared, “I was thinking, you know, [it should be easy], I’ve studied abroad before! However, I was born here in America, so I have family here. It’s almost like that dependency knowing that there are people you can rely on, which I didn’t have that same support in London and definitely not in Jamaica, so I had to figure out who I lean on when it gets tough.”
The Unexpected: Denison Connect
“People say absence makes the heart grow fonder. I did not expect to miss Denison the way I did, and it’s not because I didn’t enjoy my time in London! Being removed from this space that I’ve been in for 3 years helped me see Denison in a new light. Just little things that I couldn’t do in London, like having a campus. I didn’t really have that, which was good because I loved using the train, and I love walking around, but I did really miss the residential aspect that Denison has for us.”
Kendrah also mentioned that she was on the program with another Denison student, Klara. “ I’m grateful for that,” she said. “I had this sense that you could always connect on coming from the same school and navigate coming back on campus together. It’s funny how you go all the way across the world just to grow closer to the people from campus as well!”
Giving each other grace while keeping your boundaries
Kendrah’s provider has various programs in countries all around the world. There were 15 people in her program, but more than a hundred for all the programs that this provider offers in London specifically. In London, she shared an apartment with five other girls on the program.
“We shared a kitchen and then a living space. Sharing a space with five complete strangers was very different from sharing an apartment with your close friends on campus. These girls went to different schools like American University and definitely had different ways of life.”
Kendrah recommends trying to understand that you are in a new environment just as much as your fellow classmates. “Giving each other grace, but also keeping your boundaries” is key.
“Of course, studying abroad is exciting, but keeping close to your boundaries and values is just as important. Just because you’re moving across countries doesn’t necessarily mean everything about you has to become this new person.”
Trips and Travel Tips: Be OPEN!
The program would organize trips for students to explore around London. “ It’s more of a chance to connect with a few other people in the program. Also, if you’re someone who wants to stay in London, maybe you’re not able to travel outside of the country, but you still wanna have an experience outside of the one that you already have; these trips were great opportunities.”
One of her favorite memories was a trip to Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“It was my first hike ever and maybe too ambitious for a first hike! The trail went up a steep mountain, down, then back up again before reaching these stairs that led to a pebble beach. I was nervous at first, but I did it. Looking back, it’s something I never thought I’d sign up for, but I’m so glad I pushed myself.”
In Jamaica, the final part of the program, the group of fifteen students grew especially close. “We spent time learning about Jamaica’s history, visiting riversides, and just having conversations about our future careers. One of my favorite nights was when all of us gathered by the pool before flying home, talking, eating, and reflecting on our time together. It was simple but so meaningful.”
Connecting Across Communities
Kendrah’s program was split into three main parts: academic classes at Queen Mary University in London, shadowing hospitals during a Jamaica portion, and a work-study volunteer component. Through these experiences, she connected with a wide range of people, whether they were students, parliament members, or even faith leaders.
“I was able to attend a session where youth could ask questions directly to a Member of Parliament. That was such a unique opportunity to see how leaders in London engage with young people. I also got to work alongside major faith groups and community organizations, learning how they provide resources and contribute to society.”
She also attended a Black Health Inequalities Summit, 
an event she’d been interested in before the program. “Meeting organizations doing work in areas like breast cancer and blood donation really inspired me. It felt like seeing people who were further along the path that I want to take.”
Even the little cultural differences stood out. “I realized people in London tend to be more polite, than kind. In the U.S., people might ask how you’re doing just to be friendly, but in the UK, it’s more of a reserved politeness. It was interesting to notice.”
Advice for Future Students
Kendrah encourages future study abroad students to prepare early and be flexible.
“They told me I didn’t need more than two suitcases; I brought four. I had to leave a lot of things behind, and it limited what I could buy or bring back. Traveling between places was hectic, too.”
Her practical tips:
- Research how close your housing is to bus and train stations.
- Start planning early, especially housing, to make sure you feel safe and settled.
- Have a loose itinerary, but leave space for spontaneous adventures.
- Apply for scholarships like the Gilman. “I didn’t, but I wish I had.” Kendrah said.
- Save more money than you think you’ll need. “Whatever amount you plan, multiply it by ten if you can.”
Finally, she reminds students to embrace the experience fully:
“Be open to speaking with people and trying new things. Not everyone gets the chance to go abroad, and I’m so grateful I can look back and reminisce with joy.”
