GIL Students on the Postgraduate Influence of Grinnell in London
Even now, 11 years later, there is not a day that I don’t miss London—the city, the courses, the people, and Grinnell. I am still incredibly good friends with four people on that program and see them annually. I am so grateful for the opportunity to study under the guidance of fantastic professors who allowed me to discover, grow, and thrive in such a rich environment. GIL is one of the primary reasons I sing Grinnell’s praises to everyone I meet, and one of the reasons I support the institution financially. It is the best thing I did as a student, and I highly encourage anyone to explore the possibilities.
-Class of 2002
Grinnell-in-London was a fantastic experience that was absolutely life-changing. I began a life-long love of dramatic theatre that I maintain to this day in New York. I learned how valuable my botanical knowledge is when trying to impress octogenarians. We explored cathedrals and medieval structures and those experiences fueled my interest in architectural conservation. Being in England made Shakespeare's plays fabulous entertainment rather than a dusty reading assignment. I went back and lived in the UK for a year after college; I probably was inspired to do that by the semester at GIL. I loved the program and would recommend it to anyone.
-Class of 1997
My GIL friendships have lasted, now, over 15 years—and they continue to flower and grow. Grinnell-in-London was an amazing experience, one that, from my research and knowledge of other peoples foreign study experiences, both Grinnell and non-Grinnell, was truly unique and special. My time in London continues to shape my intellectual and social endeavors.
-Class of 2005
Studying abroad at Grinnell-in-London was the perfect fit for me. Professionally, I knew museum studies and graduate school were my next steps post-Grinnell, and the program offered a plethora of related opportunity. Personally, I enriched lifelong friendships and still now cherish fond memories of unforgettable life experiences, such as climbing the bell tower of St. Paul’s Cathedral in the dark with our music professor, field trips to all-things-Austen, Bronte and Kipling, and fall break in Scotland.
Thoreau claims that we live many lives within one. Looking back, I can honestly admit that GIL was a happy time in my life, one of much personal growth, and a life I would definitely choose to live again.
-Class of 1997
I am forever changed because of Grinnell-in-London and I am deeply grateful for the growth I have experienced because of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
-Class of 2007
