Laura Comey
Non-UMBC Summer Program: University of Liverpool’s School of Veterinary Science
Major: Biological Sciences
Track: Pre-Veterinary
Jump To: Pre-Departure Post
Pre-Departure Post
Hello! My name is Laura Comey, and I am a rising sophomore majoring in Biological Sciences on the pre-veterinary track. I am also a member of the Honors College and a Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar.
This summer, I will be studying abroad at the University of Liverpool’s School of Veterinary Science through a summer intensive program. This opportunity is especially meaningful to me because my long-term academic goal is to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Through this program, I will expand my knowledge of veterinary science while learning from faculty at an accredited veterinary institution. It will also provide valuable insight into what it is like to study at a veterinary school and prepare for a future career in this field. Additionally, the program will give me the opportunity to engage with professors and professionals in veterinary medicine, allowing me to explore future academic pathways and gain guidance on how to best achieve my career goals.
This program offers specialized courses that are not commonly available in the United States, including Built to Move: How Animal Skeletons and Soft Tissue Work Together, Introduction to Veterinary Cardiology: The Heart of Animal Health, and Fur and Feathers and Scales, Oh My?! A Closer Look at Diverse Species. During my time in Liverpool, I will be living in a university residence hall in a single room with access to a shared kitchen.
Since the program does not offer a group flight, I decided to arrive in England a week before the program begins so that I could explore with my family. This extra time will allow me to visit historic landmarks such as Kensington Place, the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, and many others! Having my family there to help me get settled has eased many of my concerns about navigating a new country. However, even with their support, starting a new school in a different country is still a little nerve-racking.
To help manage those nerves, I focused on staying organized and preparing ahead of time. I had three weeks between the end of finals at UMBC and my departure for England, which gave me time to relax, spend time with friends and family, and recharge after the semester. As a result, I feel refreshed and ready to take on this adventure.
Packing has been one of the most challenging parts of preparing for this trip. I spent a lot of time researching travel blogs and packing recommendations for England, which may have led to a bit of overbuying, but I am confident that everything will be useful. Fortunately, my flight allows me to bring a checked bag, a carry-on, and a personal item, so I have a little more flexibility with space. In addition to planning outfits for sightseeing and everyday activities, I also had to pack scrubs and clothing suitable for hands-on work with animals. I was told that many students end up changing clothes immediately after classes because things can get messy. So, I am grateful that laundry facilities are located near the dorms.
One thing that has already made me feel more comfortable is connecting with my future classmates. About a week ago, the program coordinators shared everyone’s email addresses and WhatsApp information. We quickly created a group chat and have already started getting to know one another. Since this program is not directly through UMBC, I am entering it without knowing anyone, so having the opportunity to connect beforehand has made me feel much more relaxed. Everyone I have talked to so far has been incredibly friendly, although I have yet to meet anyone from the East Coast!
I leave for England on June 9th at 9:30 p.m. Since England is five hours ahead, I chose a late-night flight in hopes of making the adjustment to the time difference a little easier. I am not entirely sure how I will feel when I arrive at 9:00 a.m. local time but 4:00 a.m. Eastern Time, but I guess I will find out soon enough.
I am excited to begin this journey and see where it takes me. I look forward to meeting new people, learning from experts in the veterinary field, exploring a new country, and making memories that will last a lifetime. My cat on the other hand might not be so happy to see me go considering he kept hiding in my suitcase and trying to join the study abroad program too.
– XX Laura