Concordia senior Yaire Ojeda spends summer studying abroad in London

Concordia University, Nebraska senior, Yaire Ojeda, spent her summer studying abroad in London, England. Ojeda is a criminal justice major from Lexington, Nebraska. She initially found her study abroad program by reaching out to Concordia’s global opportunities director, Julie Hermann. Hermann worked with Ojeda to choose from the variety of programs and locations and helped her through the process. 

Ojeda chose to study abroad because while she has always loved traveling, she had never been overseas before. When the opportunity to study abroad presented itself, it felt like a chance she couldn’t pass up.  

She took one course, Cross-Cultural Psychology. The course was held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Due to this, Ojeda had most of her week open which gave her the chance to explore London. The course also offered field trips to places like the Sigmund Freud Museum and the Science Museum. 

“It was a wonderful experience for which I am grateful to God. This trip took a lot of prayer and planning, and God’s timing is just so perfect!”

Ojeda said she chose London largely because of her major. “As a criminal justice major, I knew the U.S. system is heavily influenced by English common law, so studying there felt especially relevant.” During her time in London, she was able to partake in experiences like the Jack the Ripper walking tour, which explored both the crimes and the law enforcement methods of the time, and museums related to her field of study. One museum showcased historical law enforcement equipment from the 1800s. Ojeda commented, “These experiences helped connect what I’ve learned in class to real-world history and deepened my understanding of the field.” 

When asked about her experience, Ojeda said, “This experience gave me a new perspective by allowing me to see education and daily life in another country. It broadened my understanding of different cultures and ways of thinking, which has enriched my overall educational experience. Living abroad pushed me out of my comfort zone. Navigating a new city, understanding public transportation, and managing daily life independently helped me become more confident and adaptable. It was a wonderful experience for which I am grateful to God. This trip took a lot of prayer and planning, and God’s timing is just so perfect!” 

Concordia University Nebraska’s Global Opportunities Center offers experiences like study abroad, study tours, mission trips, and international student teaching. To learn more about global opportunities at Concordia, go here.