Belle Abroad: 7 Questions with Jasmine Jones

Jasmine Jones ’21 is an Interdisciplinary Studies major who visited Europe to further her studies. We asked her seven questions about her experience and more.

Where did you go, and what did you study?

London, England. I studied British Theater and International Journalism.

What were your favorite things about London?

My favorite things about London were all of the different museums, double-decker buses, and landmarks from the Harry Potter films. I’m a huge Harry Potter fan! I also loved discovering Primark Department Store. If you know me, then you know I love shopping and Primark was three floors of nonstop shopping!

What was your proudest personal moment? What did you learn about yourself?

My proudest moment was knowing I made it to study abroad. I am the first in my family to ever go abroad or even leave the country. Growing up, I would always hear “Jazz can’t do this” or “Jazz can’t do that” but in reality I learned that I could do anything. This was definitely a dream come true.

What surprised you most about living in London?

The most surprising thing about London is how much it is like America. I thought that I was going to have to adjust to so much, but really, the only major thing I had to adjust to was the time. And I had to get used to their pigeons! The birds in London are not like birds in the States. They aren’t afraid! They will walk right beside you.

Before leaving the U.S., what was your biggest fear and how did you deal with that?

My biggest fear was flying. My flight to London was the first time I ever rode on a plane. I kept Psalm 23:4 in mind. It says, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.”

What was it like being in London when all the news about COVID-19 hit?

At first, it was a panic! I felt like I was in a movie, and everything was moving so fast. The night President Trump announced that the U.S. would ban flights from Europe, folks at Bennett texted me and we came up with a plan. I woke up early, packed all my clothes, went straight to the institution, and told them, “My college said that I have to come home immediately.” Then, I was on the first flight out of London. It was an adrenaline rush for sure, but I made it home safe and sound!

What advice would you give your Sister Belles who are thinking about studying abroad?

Sisters, you can do anything you put your mind to! Please study abroad! Even though my stay was cut short, this was still an experience of a lifetime! Words can’t explain!