Evie Vaughn, originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, is a sophomore Integrated Studies major who participated in the winter study abroad opportunity in London, during which she took an English course on Gothic literature. “I was looking forward to gaining life experience that was different from the United States, or at least different from what I would get in Alabama,” Vaughn said.

What was your favorite part of study abroad/London? What are some things you learned?

My favorite part was trying new restaurants; I recently had to go strictly gluten free and was super excited to be able to eat out safely and visit dedicated gluten free restaurants.  I learned so many things. I obviously learned about Gothic literature and about the city. We went on many tours learning about different famous places in and around London like Westminster Abbey, Canterbury Cathedral, and the Tower of London. I also learned how to navigate a world city and how to be flexible when plans would change unexpectedly. For example, I even learned silly things like how to turn on the lights in a UK hotel room and to always carry a bag with you so you don’t have to pay for one at the grocery store. There were quite a few times where I realized something that was completely normal to me was just an American thing.

Would you recommend studying abroad to other students? What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying abroad?

I would recommend studying abroad, but I would caution that it can be more expensive than you expect. My best advice is to plan, make sure you are saving well in advance, and save more than you think you will need

When did you know that JSU was the right school for you? 

I knew JSU was the right school for me when I took a walk on campus. I had applied to colleges and hadn’t applied to JSU. One day I decided to take a walk on campus and fell in love. I loved how friendly people were.

What are some benefits of your major? 

Being able to focus on multiple different paths of study and being able to learn about anthropology, geography, and art. I enjoy being able to merge the subjects I am interested in and create a degree in something I am passionate about.

What is your favorite thing about JSU? 

I love having smaller class sizes. It allows me to get to know my peers and professors, and it allows opportunities for one-on-one instruction. 

What clubs/organizations are you involved in? 

AGAS (anthropology geography archeology society)

What is one way that you have grown during your time at JSU? 

I have really been able to step out of my comfort zone and grow into a person I am proud of, while being in a safe and friendly environment.

What is your favorite course that you have taken? 

Human Geography with Dr. Catlin and Drawing 2 with Professor Baker

Any recent accomplishments? 

I was recently accepted in JSU’s archeological excavation in Iceland for this summer, which I am super excited about!

What do you plan to do after you graduate? 

After I graduate, I plan to go to graduate school to get a degree in anthropology.

What is a fun fact about yourself? 

A fun fact about myself is that I love being outside, and I spend most days outside working on my schoolwork.

What advice do you have for first-year students? 

Remember to take a few minutes a day for yourself. Take a breath, take a walk, do something to destress from the craziness of your day.