This episode of Discover Boston College features Jack Griffin ’26 as he reflects on spending an academic year at the London School of Economics. Jack shares why he chose a year abroad, how he found friends and community far from home, what returning to Boston College felt like, and practical advice for students weighing semester vs. year-long programs. Thoughtful, candid, and upbeat — this conversation explores cultural adjustment, academic differences, and how study abroad shapes confidence and perspective.
0:00 | Welcome to Discover Boston College with George Kaparis ’27.
0:18 | Meet Jack Griffin ’26, a senior in Mods 25B.
0:42 | Why study abroad — what drew Jack to London and LSE?
1:22 | Jack on choosing a year vs. a semester abroad (and the Sidemen anecdote).
2:44 | What did you expect before leaving, and how did reality compare?
3:16 | First connections in London — meeting Joshua and Dan.
6:03 | What was returning to BC like after a full academic year away?
6:52 | Cultural note: wardrobe changes (the scarf) and daily life differences.
7:51 | Academic contrast: end-of-year exams in London vs. steady assignment flow at BC.
9:02 | How studying abroad improved his social confidence (and small talk).
11:48 | Working at a pub abroad — weekend life and perspective shifts.
12:15 | What advice would you give students planning to study abroad?
13:58 | Thank you for tuning into this episode of Discover Boston College!
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