Santa Clara University

International Ambassadors - Cheryl Taguma

International Programs Office

Cheryl Taguma
Cheryl Taguma '10
Room number: 110

Cheryl Taguma '10

International Ambassador

Originally I had planned to study abroad in Japan because I had always wanted to live there.  However, after researching the SCU London program, I determined that this program had a lot more to offer me.  Not only could I take classes that counted towards both of my academic degrees (major and minor), but I had the wonderful opportunity to be placed in an internship abroad.  In addition, London is the cultural epicenter of Europe and would be a wonderful experience.  They also speak English here.

London has made an extreme impact on my life.  Because I am completely on the other side of the world from my home and family, I feel like I have really grown up and matured while being here.  London itself is a remarkable city full of life and history.  There is never a dull moment or a time where I feel like I've done it all; in fact, I don't think I'll ever be able to see it all. Also, because London is such a diverse city I feel like I have become so much more culturally aware. I had always  believed that California was one of the most diverse places to live, but I have been proven wrong by London. Working in London has also been such a blessing.  Everyday is a wonderful new experience, and it is so interesting to note the different acceptable customs and work life balances they have in place here.  I can be sure that if I walk down the hall I will hear a coworker speaking in a different foreign language - London is so centrally located that many of its workers are recent immigrants and everyone has their own story to tell. I feel that this experience of working in London will help me with any future job I pursue. Traveling from country to country on weekends is very easy from London, and I truly feel that I have been blessed to have the opportunities to see the world and its beauties while being abroad.  I could never have dreamed of doing what I have, and I am so grateful that I chose to study abroad in London.

Maximize relationships. Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people.  I've had an amazing experience learning about others' lifestyles and cultures.  As similar as they may seem on the outside, there are many unsaid but interesting facts they can share with you if you just ask.  In addition, make sure you get out and explore your city and all of its hidden gems. You're studying here to have fun, but you do not want to leave without feeling like you learned about the city itself.  Don't forget or slack off on your studies either, because it will come back and bite you - you still are getting graded whether you remember or not.