Reflecting on our 39th year of the London Program, we thank the alums and donors of this special program housed in the College of Arts and Humanities at Fresno State. For alums, your shared experiences in London give this program depth beyond the average study abroad program. For the donors, it is your generosity that makes this program possible.
On Dec. 27, 2023, 36 Fresno State students boarded a plane in San Francisco to cross the Atlantic Ocean for the “Art History, Architecture, and Artistic Exchange in Tudor, Stuart, and Georgian Britain” winter intersession course. They returned on January 17th.
“We visited many historical sites and museum collections that speak to the ancient Roman history of Britannia, the formation of the medieval English kingdom, the making of Tudor England (1485-1603), the splendor of the Baroque courts in the time of the Stuart dynasty (1603-1714), and the imperialism of Georgian Britain (1714-1837) overseas,” said Nick Potter, professor of art. “They were taken aback, fascinated by what they saw.”
For many, it was their first time traveling outside of the United States. The three-week schedule was intense. London was the classroom where students found themselves in the homes of historical figures, looking at original masterpieces or being enveloped in history, walking the streets in the central city.
“London is unique, clearly important historically, as it was the center of a powerful empire, reflected in its great art collections, architecture, urban spaces, sculptural monuments, et cetera, but also London is one of the leading contemporary art cities in the world. It has everything,” said Potter. “Students may have found it tiring at times, but I would remind them that they would be back in Fresno soon enough, so better take advantage of it.”
Potter said his favorite moments were taking students to see Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Virgin of the Rocks” at the National Gallery and leading students to the top of the dome of Saint Paul’s Cathedral at sunset.
We asked the students about their experience. Here’s what they shared with us:
“Participating in the London Program was truly the highlight of my college experience. Each day was a journey of transformation as we turned museums and historical landmarks into our classrooms. London’s rich history and vibrant culture provided the perfect backdrop for exploration and discovery. As I wandered through the city, I found myself understanding why it has been a muse for countless artists and writers throughout history. Visiting iconic places like Jane Austen’s apartment in Bath was a dream come true. This trip not only ignited my passion for museum-hopping and art but also left me with a newfound inspiration that continues to shape my journey. London has a piece of my heart now, and I can’t wait to return.”
~ Celeste Jones
“First and foremost, I would like to thank you for your generosity and for supporting me on the London trip. I could not have gone without your help. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I had the best instructors that brought us to so many museums, theaters, and galleries. The city was truly beautiful. My favorite excursion in London was going to Oxford University. I was so excited to go there because I am a huge fan of Harry Potter. Many scenes from the Goblet of Fire were filmed there, and I was able to tour the campus. Another place I enjoyed immensely was Saint Paul’s Cathedral. It was one of the most beautiful churches I had ever seen. The ceiling art was astonishing, and they even had a section with modern art. It was an architectural marvel. I took the steps all the way to the viewpoint of London from the top of the cathedral. That moment is forever ingrained in my head. I could see so much of London from there.”
~ Devynn Brown
“The London Winter study abroad experience was the highlight of my time at Fresno State. I got to experience so many new foods, see historical sights, and learn about the rich history of the U.K. The best part of the trip was being led by two incredibly knowledgeable experts in the arts, Professor Potter and Dr. Pelaez. They took us to some of the coolest places in London that I would not have been aware of if I had traveled there on my own. If I had to share one memory, it would be climbing all the way to the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral. The trek was well worth the unreal views!”
~ Keyara Piri
“I really appreciate all of the help that was given to me, which allowed me to get to participate in the London Program! I would never have been able to do it without that help. The ability to go abroad is not afforded to many, and to have seen so much art and history firsthand is an experience that I will never forget and that I plan on applying forward when I become a teacher. I am a history major with minors in art history and geography, and I went into this program without knowing anyone. I was able to make some wonderful friends and see places I had only talked about before. It was fascinating seeing all the works by artists I had only ever seen in textbooks while observing the sites steeped in history. I will always remember the trip, from the time a friend and I accidentally ate at a super expensive restaurant to seeing The Phantom of the Opera on the last night of the trip with two other friends I had made! Thank you again so much!”
~ Tyler Boyd
“The opportunity to study abroad in London would not have been possible for me if it wasn’t for the generous scholarship donors. Through the London study abroad program, I was able to immerse myself in incredible artworks and learn about the intricate art history in Britain. As a biology major and aspiring physician, my ability to explore subjects outside of STEM is limited; therefore, the opportunity to do so abroad was transformative. Some of my favorite memories abroad were seeing Diego Velazquez’s incredible work, watching my first play, and even traveling to Paris. I am very thankful for the scholarship donors for allowing me to take part in this life-changing program.”
~ Yazmine Bedolla
The College of Arts and Humanities at Fresno State 