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.
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!