Michael Benson, Director of the Centre for Study Abroad, shares how the University is helping students make the most of their international experience.
Bristol has one of the strongest study abroad offers in the country, thanks in large part to the Centre for Study Abroad, which provides a comprehensive academic and pastoral experience. Bristol has always been a popular destination for American students, but it’s seen significant growth in recent years. Now, we’re strengthening our offer to students from all financial backgrounds with the launch of the US Study Abroad Scholarship, increasing accessibility for those who might not otherwise be able to afford to come to Bristol.
Studying in a different country gives students the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, challenge their assumptions, and develop skills that will serve them beyond their time on campus. Students gain a global perspective, expand their academic horizons and immerse themselves in a vibrant international community. Living in a different cultural context also helps build resilience and adaptability. It’s not always an easy transition at first, but one that’s genuinely worthwhile.
We work closely with US universities to ensure that our courses align with students’ educational requirements, and we provide academic support and an academic director to ensure that students successfully navigate our system, which may differ from their home institutions.
We run one of the largest social and welcome programmes in the UK for study abroad students. These students want to make the most of their short time here, so the Centre curates a range of programmes and activities to immerse in Bristol life. We’ve organised sessions around navigating culture shock, trips to Bath, harbourside boat tours and so much more. We also encourage students to support their career development through volunteering and internships.
The US Study Abroad Scholarship levels the playing field and makes the benefits of a semester abroad available to a much wider range of students. We want to attract the best and brightest minds to our campus, regardless of financial means. This scholarship is an investment in students’ futures, as well as the future of our global society.
Thanks to your generosity, students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to study abroad due to financial constraints now have a chance to come to Bristol and have this transformative experience. By supporting this scholarship, you are changing the lives of individuals and fostering the next generation of leaders.
To learn more about the US Study Abroad Scholarship, please click here.