Learning Across The Pond

Jack Rupple, caddie scholar at Essex Fells Country Club, is currently studying in London through the study abroad program at the University of Maryland. It is not uncommon for most juniors to spend at least a semester studying in various locations across the world, but Rupple had the fortunate opportunity to participate in a similar program his freshman year. The Marketing major shares what it is like across the pond studying, interning, travelling, exploring, "and," he says, "spending my hard earned cash from this past season!"

Schoolwork has actually been a relatively low workload for me this semester so far because I am only taking three classes. However, I do have an internship. I am taking a marketing class, an economics class and an art and architecture class. All three are very interesting and have taught me a lot already. I must admit, I favor the art class because the we meet at a different exhibit, gallery, or museum every class and we get to view some world renowned masterpieces! I appreciate the light workload because it makes the city that much more conquerable...I think that is the right word...because London is so enormous and there is so much to do you have to live here for years to experience it all!

I have been interning at a company called Buccellati, a high end Italian jeweler. My boss, who happens to be from New Jersey, started two companies of his own; AVOTRA, a transportation logistics firm, and Global Showcases, an innovative luxury product advertising firm. I primarily work on Global Showcases, however, I have done a lot of research for AVOTRA and a bit of merchandising work with Buccellati, as well.

Currently, I am working with another intern on a project that requires us to travel all over London to every five-star hotel and research, take notes on visits, and speak with potential clients for Global Showcases. I work with people from England, Canada, South Korea, America, and more countries, which is incredible because they are all so intelligent and have different styles of working. I am learning so much not only about business and the industries, but also about culture. It has been a very fun and very eye-opening experience.

I have also done quite a bit of travelling. Within the United Kingdom, I have day tripped to Oxford and Blenheim Palace--actually in the same day! Both destinations are absolutely breathtaking. I also plan on taking a day trip to Brighton, Canterbury, Dover, Windsor. My extended travels began two weekends ago with Koblenz, Germany. Koblenz was one of the best travels I have ever taken in my life. I traveled alone until I met a friend from University of Maryland who is studying just across the Rhine River from Koblenz (in Vallendar). I spent an extremely authentic weekend in Germany and loved it. As the Germans would say, it was "Super!"

Then this past weekend I was in Bristol visiting another University of Maryland friend who now is studying for her masters at University of Bristol. Bristol is an incredible city; it reminds me of a smaller, less global London, which makes it a much more British city. We went to a Bristol Rovers football match which was extraordinary (their fans are INSANE!). Travelling in Europe is much easier and costs much less than in the U.S., which makes experiencing different cultures and countries so much more accessible.

Finally on to London! About a month ago, London was rated the number one city in the world (something I have known since my first trip here two years ago). I have gone to a few concerts here: Van Morrison--one of my all-time favorites--and the Local Natives--one of my current favorites. Both artists blew me away.

I live about a two minute walk from Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. Last Thursday, I was on my way to class and I saw Prince Harry! He was right in front of the National Gallery (where my art class was). I also attended a Fullham vs. Stoke City football match at the historic Craven Cottage. Fullham is the oldest football club in London so their stadium proves it! I also was allowed to tour Buckingham Palace. It was one of the most impressive places I have ever seen. There is a room with more priceless pieces of art than the eye can see and another room with the Queen's wedding dress and accessories.

Overall, I'd have to say it has by far been the best semester I have had. I think that coming back is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life (besides becoming a caddie!).

The plan as of right now is to network as much as I can and work on getting a connection for a job here in London post-graduation. It has felt like home since day one, so I am confident I will make one here.