By Theresa O’Connor 

   The Stock Exchange is closed. The United Kingdom’s businesses and schools are shut down. A New York Times headline reads “Queen Elizabeth II Dies at 96; Was Britain’s Longest-Reigning Monarch.” 

   Needless to say, the passing of Queen Elizabeth on Sept. 8 was a shocking event that touched the hearts of many. Individuals in a neighboring country or 4,000 miles across the sea were impacted by this poignant event. 

   TPA alumna Bree Van Dahm was in the middle of it all. 

   From the graduating class of 2022, Bree is studying Integrated Marketing and Communication as a sophomore at Pepperdine University. Currently, she is studying abroad in London and, although she has only been there for a short time, she has already experienced a part of what living in a different country is like. For instance, the death of the queen was definitely an unexpected, yet momentous, occurrence which Bree witnessed. 

   “It’s been so surreal being here during such a historic time and experiencing it all firsthand,” she says. “The night of my first full day when the news got released I found myself outside Buckingham Palace with crowds of people mourning their queen, which was just so incredible to be a part of.” 

   Freshmen at Pepperdine apply for study abroad programs at the beginning of the fall semester, and about 70% of students study abroad in their sophomore year for either one semester, a full school year or over the summer. Pepperdine offers its students a variety of locations including London, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Argentina, Spain and Washington D.C.  Each provides them with unique experiences and memories. 

   The university also offers faculty-led programs in Kenya, Fiji, Japan, Madrid and Uganda. 

   Bree initially chose London because of “how easy it is to get around and travel to other countries.” From sightseeing to eating delicious foods, Bree says she is never be bored and will definitely make the most out of her experience. She recently returned from Scotland and France and is looking forward to traveling to several different countries with her friends. 

   In study-abroad programs, students are able to immerse themselves in a range of experiences while studying in locations across the globe. Whether at a college or state-department program, there are many opportunities for students to go abroad. Be sure to contact Mrs. Moffitt if you are interested.