Lainie discovered Aberystwyth while searching for places to study online and instantly fell in love with the town’s seafront, picturesque views, and its impressive university. 

She has excelled in her academic life and has made an everlasting impression on Aberystwyth and its international cohort by co-founding the university’s first ever American Society. 

Her subject is International Politics, which has already taken her across the Atlantic – who knows where it will take her next.

My best friend and I decided to start American Society Aberystwyth – the university’s first ever American Society. 

"As soon as I saw the pictures of Aberystwyth and the exact degree that I wanted to study at university, I knew that it was right for me.

Moving across the Atlantic was definitely intimidating. Not only was I moving out of my parents’ house and away from my family, but I knew that I wouldn’t get to visit them every other weekend like many students are able to. 

After my dad dropped me off, I cried the first night. But the next morning I forced myself to fight the jet lag, jumped out of bed and made it to the welcome meetings and activities – that’s where I immediately met my best friend. 

My homesickness really settled in after my first Thanksgiving away from home. That’s when my best friend and I decided to start American Society Aberystwyth – the university’s first ever American Society. 

We wanted to create a safe space for homesick international students that felt the same as us, and we really wanted to challenge the negative stereotypes of American people and our culture – a society that prides itself on inclusivity, collaboration and community. 

Since then, we have hosted lots of monthly social events for Americans abroad, international students, and other societies to connect with each other. We get together and have a s’mores bonfire by the beach, have a themed potluck where we share our favourite foods with each other; we even host competitions between states. 

I’ve found that bringing some spices or mixes from home can help curb homesickness, and sharing comfort foods with my peers is one of the easiest ways to connect with people. 

The American Society has developed into a familiar community to join when someone is feeling homesick, and we hope our younger members can keep it going after we’ve graduated!"

Why I chose Aberystwyth University over a US college

Inspired by Lainie's experience?
Explore Aberystwyth University

  • Why International Students Choose Aberystwyth

    Lainie, an international student from the United States, chose Aberystwyth University after discovering the town online. Drawn to its seafront, scenic landscapes, and strong academic reputation, she quickly knew it was the perfect place to study International Politics.

  • Moving to Wales as an International Student

    Relocating across the Atlantic to Wales was a major life change. Like many international students, Lainie experienced:

    Homesickness after leaving family behind

    Adjusting to a new culture and environment

    Navigating independence for the first time

    Her first night was emotional, but attending welcome events the next day helped her quickly build connections—where she met her best friend.

  • Building Community at University: Founding the American Society

    After experiencing her first Thanksgiving away from home, Lainie co-founded the first-ever American Society at Aberystwyth University.

    The society was created to:

    Support homesick international students

    Celebrate American culture in an inclusive way

    Challenge stereotypes through cultural exchange

    Build a sense of belonging on campus

  • Student Life in Aberystwyth: Events and Cultural Experiences

    The American Society has become a vibrant part of student life in Aberystwyth, hosting regular events such as:

    Beach bonfires with s’mores

    Themed potluck dinners featuring international dishes

    Social events connecting different student societies

    Friendly competitions celebrating US states and culture

  • Tips for International Students Studying Abroad

    Lainie’s experience offers practical advice for students moving overseas:

    Attend welcome events to make friends early

    Stay proactive when adapting to a new culture

    Bring comfort items or food from home

    Join or start student societies to build community

  • Why Study International Politics at Aberystwyth University?

    Studying International Politics at Aberystwyth University provides:

    A globally recognised academic programme

    The world’s first Department of International Politics, pioneering the study of global politics for over a hundred years 

    Opportunities to engage with international perspectives

    A supportive environment for overseas students

    A close-knit campus community in a scenic coastal town

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