November Scholar of the Month: Grace Takes on London and Shares Study Abroad Insight with AWU

Hi! My name is Grace Nyenke. I’m from Los Angeles, CA and I’m a 4th year Political science major from the University of California, Merced.

My college experience was really great, I met a lot of different people from all different backgrounds and got to collaborate on many projects for school events.

What is some advice you have for incoming freshmen/ underclassmen to help them navigate their college experience?

The advice I would give is to make sure you take time for yourself to not only study but have self-care as well. Even though your academics are very important, make sure you set time for yourself to make sure you are physically, mentally and emotionally stable to enjoy your college experience. Also surround yourself with people who want you to succeed and not fall back.

What are you most excited about for your final year? Are you moving in soon?

Since I’m studying abroad I will have to wait 60-90 days to get my grades back, but I already completed all my credits, therefore I won’t be taking any classes during the spring semester. I’m just waiting to receive my degree in May 2022. But while I’m waiting I’m hoping to intern at any job that align with my degree and also apply for grad school.Hi! My name is Grace Nyenke. I’m from Los Angeles, CA and I’m a 4th year Political science major from the University of California, Merced.

My college experience was really great, I met a lot of different people from all different backgrounds and got to collaborate on many projects for school events.

What have been the most rewarding activities/academics you participated in?

I think the most rewarding academics I participated in was taking a class in US Popular Music and British Politics. Being that I’m abroad I’m taking classes exactly like these and it is great that I can use my knowledge from these previous courses to apply them to my studies.

Can you tell us about your study abroad experience?

I always wanted to study abroad but wasn’t never courageous or dedicated enough to fill out the applications. It may sound cheesy, but I watched a show on Netflix called Emily in Paris and that’s what motivated me to want to travel the world. Even though I didn’t choose Paris as my destination, I knew London was the place for me because there isn’t a language barrier and it seemed like a practical choice for my first time being abroad. My parents were really supportive throughout the whole process, even though they were a bit concerned especially in the age of COVID-19, deep down they knew this is what I needed to do for myself. I applied for a lot of scholarships and worked two summer jobs to save up for my trip.

What is some advice you have for incoming freshmen/ underclassmen to help them navigate their college experience?

The advice I would give is to make sure you take time for yourself to not only study but have self-care as well. Even though your academics are very important, make sure you set time for yourself to make sure you are physically, mentally and emotionally stable to enjoy your college experience. Also surround yourself with people who want you to succeed and not fall back.

What are you most excited about for your final year? Are you moving in soon?

Since I’m studying abroad I will have to wait 60-90 days to get my grades back, but I already completed all my credits, therefore I won’t be taking any classes during the spring semester. I’m just waiting to receive my degree in May 2022. But while I’m waiting I’m hoping to intern at any job that align with my degree and also apply for grad school.