Get a Global Start with NYU Stern’s First Year London Program

When you’re studying in a business hub like London, it’s no surprise that courses take you beyond the classroom. “All the teachers recognize that this is a study abroad experience,” says Keerthi Vijay. She’s a Business major concentrating in finance and sustainable business. “That means they conduct their classes in an engaging way that constantly interacts with the city.” One standout class? British Politics—taught by a professor who worked as an adviser to a member of Parliament. “He’d finish work and then come teach us,” she recalls, adding that the class visited Parliament during their time in London.

William Guan, a Business major planning to concentrate in finance, also appreciated that his classes featured site-specific learning. “Some of the highlights of my academic experience were the cultural programming trips,” he explains. “NYU London provides free trips for students, including day trips to historic sites and towns, free seats at musicals and plays, and more. One of my favorites was visiting the White Cliffs of Dover and Dover Castle.”

Living in London doesn’t just mean a practical business education. It also exposes students to a vibrant city with endless opportunities to explore. “London is a really diverse city. I tried so many kinds of food. And there’s so much mixing between cultures—even more so than in New York City,” says Keerthi. She recalls traveling around the United Kingdom as well as venturing to Lisbon for a weekend. “It gave me a good deal of responsibility being far away. It’s one thing to acclimate to college but another to acclimate to a whole new country.”

William was just as excited about London’s convenient location. “Having never traveled to Europe, it’s been amazing to be so close to so many different countries,” he says. “Weekend trips with friends are super easy. They give you the chance to experience so much of the continent in a short amount of time.”

NYU London students also use their time abroad to pursue career opportunities. For example, Keerthi joined clubs like the Asset Management Society at University College London and attended networking events with NYU alumni. And for Abby, NYU London was just the beginning. “Doing my first year in London opened my eyes to the ability to study abroad,” she says, noting that by the time she graduates, she’ll have spent two full years away from New York City. “These experiences have given me the opportunity to not only live abroad but broaden my global perspective.”