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Study Abroad In London

 Above: Students from the Summer 2006 program visited
historical sites such as the Tower of London (c.1078)

London Study Abroad Program Provides a
"Revolutionary" Way to Learn American History

HST 401/501: "British Perspectives on the American Revolution"
Dr. Alison M. Parker, History Department, SUNY Brockport

“British Perspectives on the American Revolution,” a Study Abroad class taught by Dr. Alison Parker, gave ten SUNY Brockport students the opportunity to break out of the four walls of the lecture hall and experience British culture and history first hand. The class featured an intensive reading list, designed to supplement daily trips to historical sites, museums, government institutions, and cultural centers throughout London, Windsor, and Cambridge. For instance, students attended sessions of Parliament (including a surprise visit from Prime Minister Tony Blair), attended a live performance of Antony and Cleopatra at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and viewed the 700-year-old campus greens at Cambridge from the prow of punt boats on the Cam River. (View Pictures and Highlights for the London Study Abroad Program)

Most days of the class began with a vigorous walking tour through one of the many distinctive districts of London and included stops at historical sites such as the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral, as well as cultural sites, such as the apple market at Covent Garden, Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park, or even one of the hundreds of centuries-old pubs for which London is so famous. 

The students on the trip also were given ample free time (and an unlimited pass for the Underground) for exploring their own personal or historical interests in London. Students took advantage of their free time to develop friendships through lazy afternoons in the sun at Hyde Park, evening walks along the Thames River, or an exciting night out in one of London’s hot spots. 

Some of the students shared their experiences:

• “The trip overall was a blast! I think that Dr. Parker did an excellent job packing as much in during the three weeks without burning everybody out. Also, I really enjoyed the readings, especially the ones regarding British foreign policy.”
  - Megan Wilson, Graduate Student at SUNY Brockport  
• “This class met all the objectives: It was fun, educational, interesting, and provided a unique learning experience. Also, great job in pre-arranging tickets and transportation. Nice balance of work and free time. Readings were very good.”
  - Paul Brew, Senior at SUNY Brockport 
• “Overall, this class was wonderful! Cambridge was amazing and I appreciated Dr. Parker’s energy and excitement. This was truly a trip and an experience of a lifetime!”
  - Caroline Bender, Graduate of SUNY Brockport (2006) 
• “This Study Abroad trip allowed me to experience history directly – I have tread where monarchs have lived for the last 1000 years, seen priceless art and artifacts from the last five millennia of history, and broadened my knowledge of history through coursework and awe-inspiring adventure throughout the historic city of London. I’d do this trip again if I could!”
  - Michael Fickess, Junior at SUNY Brockport

 

 

SUNY Brockport will be providing another opportunity to experience this unique Study Abroad program with Dr. Parker in the Summer of 2010. All SUNY Brockport students will be welcome to apply, regardless of major. 

  (Click here for link to syllabus for 2010 London Study Abroad Program)

(Click here for link to photo highlights and featured sites for 2010 London Study Abroad Program)

Last Updated 7/21/10

News

Dr. Ken O'Brien has been named a SUNY Provost Fellow for the 2013-2014 year.

Dr. Bruce Leslie has been made a SUNY Distinguished Service Professor.

Dr. Morag Martin receives SUNY Chancellor's Award for Teaching Excellence.

History students win campus-wide awards for 2012-13 year!

Three History students present at the NCUR.

Events

Department Graduation Ceremony, May 18, 10:30 am in the New York Room, Cooper Hall