Attending College Abroad Ewurafua Addo-Atuah University of Buckingham, England 2007 (accelerated class) Hi everyone! I am writing from the library of the University of Buckingham in the historic town of Buckingham, which is about an hour and 30 minutes from the London, the capital city of Britain. I study law and French at the University of Buckingham and I am enjoying my studies but there is a lot work to be done by the students since Buckingham practices an accelerated system under which students may graduate in 2 years instead of the usual 3 or 4 years for undergraduate degrees in the UK. So, if all goes well I hope to graduate in December 2007. It is very exciting being here because of the mix of cultures; it is a true melting pot. Just a few of the countries represented here are Ghana (my home country), Nigeria, Canada, Italy, France, and the United States. Buckingham has a beautiful campus and residence halls. All students have their own rooms and some have en suite facilities which means that they have their own bathrooms and rest rooms too. For those who do not, they have to share the bathrooms with 4 other people. The kitchens are shared between 4-6 other people. Many people wanted to study law and French and then practice in my home country of Ghana, but that could not have been possible in the US because of the difference between the legal systems of the two countries. Ghana being a commonwealth country (which means we were colonized by Britain) practices common law which is very similar to the one being practiced in the UK. Had I studied in the US, I would have been required to undergo further training in my home country upon completion of my studies but I believe the US gave my the much needed basic education I needed to be successful in my studies in the UK. If you are interested in applying to a school abroad, especially England, here's good news for you folks, it is not that hard!!! Actually, in my opinion, it is relatively easier than that in the US because I applied to schools both in the US and England. All UK schools now use one application form and all you need to get is a UCAS form which is available from the British Council website- www.britishcouncil.org. With that application form, you may apply to one school and as many as six schools. After sending your application to UCAS, they then in turn, make copies of your application and send it the various schools you choose to apply to. All you need is one reference, so it has to be someone you know is going to write some good stuff for you! The UCAS system is very much like the common application being used in the US. There are a list of schools and the courses they offer and other helpful tips on studying in the UK on the UCAS website You should always remember that being members of the NSHSS is a privilege which should not be taken lightly. Continue to work hard so that in the end, you will be able to enjoy the fruits of your success. Let the sky be your limit!