Laura Halter
Laura Halter is a first year History undergraduate from Saint Louis. Laura told us about her time at the University of Liverpool and why she chose to study here.
Why did you choose to study in the UK, and in particular at the University of Liverpool?
I am a History major, so England was particularly attractive in that aspect. Also, I wanted to experience a culture other than my own for a while. I visited the UK for the first time a little over a year ago and looked at five different universities. Liverpool was the most appealing for me because I loved the atmosphere, the city and the university.
What did you think of the University of Liverpool when you arrived here and did it take you long to settle in?
I loved being here immediately! Of course I was homesick for a while, but that was to be expected. I made great friends straight away and started to find my way around the city. Now Liverpool feels like a second home to me.
What do you think of the city of Liverpool and how does it compare your home town of Saint Louis?
Liverpool is a lot different from Saint Louis. I think that has more to do with the two countries being so different culturally in general. In Missouri, there are a lot of small towns, farms and suburbs, so Liverpool is a pretty big city for me!
What do you think the level of awareness and perception of Liverpool in the US is?
I think that the people who do know about Liverpool hold it in high regard. A lot of people associate it with the Beatles; they have definitely made an international name for this city.
What are the main differences you have found between studying in the UK and the US?
There are many differences. I find the lecturing styles, scheduling, and grading styles very different. It’s also different for me individually because my university at home was a lot smaller (class sizes were about 20-25), so to sit in a lecture with a hundred other history students was a new experience for me!
Can you tell us a bit more about your volunteer work and involvement in the history society?
I attend all of the events organised by the leaders of the society - they put on great nights! I volunteer with the Derby and Rathbone Hall Library. I have also worked as a tour guide on the Greenbank Halls tours for prospective students and their parents.
What are your plans for the future and would you like to continue to keep in touch with the University?
As a twenty year old, the future is forever shifting for me! I’m not quite sure which profession I will end up choosing, but I will definitely keep in touch with the university.
What advice would you give to a US student who is thinking about coming to Liverpool?
I would tell them to go for it! I was very nervous before coming over and I had so many questions! Once accepted, you are assigned to a student ambassador who can answer every question possible. I would tell them that although they will inevitably feel homesick at times, it will be a great, once in a lifetime experience and they will make memories and friendships here that will last forever!