Jennifer Navarre, a two-time Literary London participant, asked some other "Literary londoners" a few questions about their experiences.  What follows is a selection of highlights from Jennifer's series of interviews.

Literary London: A Mini-Interview
by Jennifer Navarre
September 2008

Why did you decide to study abroad?

I thought the idea of study abroad was perfect; I’m a history major, minoring in English and I love to travel–perfect combination.
—Maureen Keillor ('07)

Why did you pick Literary London over other study abroad programs?

Because it gave me direct credit towards my major, it was in a more comfortable and transitional environment (it was still an English-speaking country!), a couple of my friends also wanted to go, and it was offered by my favorite professor!
—Christopher Jackson ('08)

Were there any obstacles to getting to go? If so, how did you overcome them?

The money issue was the biggest problem but it wasn't really all that time consuming. Financial aid paid for most of it and the rest I acquired by savings. I had nearly 1/2 a year to get the money together and it wasn't that much to produce either way.
—Kevin McDonald ('08)

 What are some things you learned?

To immerse oneself in another culture and become an outsider is such an incredibly rewarding and educational experience! I really learned a lot, not just from the academic field trips we did, but also from the free times spent talking with locals from all different walks of life.
—Christopher Jackson ('08)

What was your favorite part of the trip?

Asking “what was your favorite part of the trip” is like asking me which child is my favorite--they all are, but for varying reasons! I loved Evensong at King’s Chapel in Cambridge, the American servicemen’s memorial at St. Paul’s, the tombs in Westminster, the experience of seeing how the “other half” lives in the eclectic Brick Lane, the Chelsea Flower Show with Neal’s Yard Dairy cheese and Marks & Spencer strawberries, and well, just the whole experience of another land, culture and city!
—Maureen Keillor ('07)

Were there any difficult parts on the trip?

We walked a lot, . . but it was worth it, because we really got a lot of activities done in a short amount of time.
—Sibongile Lynch ('08)

How does Literary London compare to other study abroad programs you’ve participated in?

It’s the BEST!!!!!!
—Sandy Howell ('07)

If you could do it again, would you? Is there anything you would change?

Are you kidding me? I can’t wait to get back! I’m sure I will go again. I feel totally acclimated, like I could fall right back into place and not miss a beat. The only thing I would change is that I would give myself two days in Paris instead of just one. Other than that, I wouldn’t change one, single, solitary thing. It was perfect.
—Sibongile Lynch ('08)

Is there any advice you would give to future participants?

I would simply advise to plan ahead. Determine the amount of money you need to have the type of trip that you desire and then go for it. Be yourself, bring comfortable walking shoes, and have the trip of a lifetime!
—Jeanna Brooks ('08)

Save enough money so that you can do everything there you want to. It is an incredible experience and you want to be able to make the most of it without having to watch every penny. Cut loose, have fun,
—Christopher Jackson ('08)