SOAS University of London

Tamara Bah, American University, Washington, Year Abroad

Before I came to SOAS, I knew that my grade would depend on either one or two large assignments and I was apprehensive about that—almost scared, however I am glad as I got to learn a lot about myself as a student. I became more independent academically and got to see what I can really accomplished without teachers “coddling” me along the way. Extremely refreshing!

Study Abroad January - June 2014

Which courses did you study at SOAS?

Why did you choose SOAS? 

As an Economics major with a concentration in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), I wanted to be at a school that specializes in the Middle East as well as an extremely strong development economics program. I knew SOAS was the right school for me because not only are there students from all over the world who take courses here, but also the professors as well. In the future, I would like to work for an organization such as the African Development Bank and my Aunt who actually works for the bank told me that her and her colleagues recruit students from SOAS to work for them. I am certainly considering coming back to SOAS at the graduate school level!

How would you describe living in London?

Words cannot even describe the experience one will have while living in London. I really do not want to go back to D.C!  Living in London was the best experience of my life thus far. Kings cross was a great location to live in.

How did you spend your free time?

I spent time exploring London with my friends, travelling to other cities such as Amsterdam and Barcelona. My flatmates were extremely welcoming and really great people, so I spent time with them as well. Going to pubs and meeting real Londoners was great because many of my friends here are people from London.