Tarun
BSc Economics
University of Central Florida
My semester-long experience at the University of Central Florida has been nothing short of exhilarating, filled with moments that have transformed my understanding of American culture and lifestyle. I did so much things that I had only seen and heard of which was so cool to experience.
Something as simple as walking into a supermarket was incredible, seeing all these products in Walmart that you don’t get in the UK. From American snacks like Pop-Tarts and Cheez-Its to the towering shelves of cereal and candy, every corner offered a new discovery that honestly felt quite surreal. Trying some of the fast food chains for the first time was another adventure; the beloved Chick-fil-A’s sandwiches and the crispy goodness of Raising Cane’s chicken fingers are definitely some of the must-haves. The size of everything here is astonishing—the sprawling campus, the massive lifted trucks that seem to dominate the roads, and the generous food portions that make every meal feel like a feast.
Yet, what truly stands out about my time here is the warmth and friendliness of the people I’ve met. There hasn’t been a dull day; every interaction, whether with local Floridians or fellow students, has always been memorable and insightful. Meeting Americans has been fascinating, but I had also built strong connections with the international students from all over the world that are also on exchange, just like us. From Europeans from Germans and Swedes to even Australians and Egyptians, each person brought a unique story and perspective that fuelled the vibrancy of our shared experience.
The hype surrounding college football games is another highlight of my semester; the atmosphere is electric, with fans crowding together and celebrating even hours before the game starts at the tailgates. The hype is truly unmatched, and witnessing the dedication of the university community during game days has been a thrilling spectacle. It’s inspiring to see how deeply people care about their school, and it has made me feel like a part of something much larger than myself.
Outside of going to University, Florida offers so many places to visit that you’d be spoilt for choice. Whether you want to go on a thrilling rollercoaster ride at one of the many theme parks here like Universal Studios or see marine life up close in Seaworld, your weekends after a week of classes will always be lively. Even if you don’t want to go anywhere, you can definitely enjoy the weather from home as well, as the sun is always beating down on you.
This semester has been a whirlwind of exploration, connection, and excitement, and I am grateful for every moment that has contributed to this unforgettable chapter of my life here in Florida.
