MEET THE STUDENTS:

Grace Smith (right)

"I learned how climate change is putting new pressures on fire response, water quality management, and urban planning. Engaging with organizations like the London Fire Brigade, the UK Drinking Water Inspectorate, and Anglian Water gave me a global perspective on environmental systems and decision-making. I also gained insight into how journalism and education, such as that at The Guardian and Imperial College, contribute to public awareness and innovation in resilience.

"This experience challenged my understanding and inspired me to think more critically about how to build a sustainable and adaptable future. Each experience offered insights that I wouldn’t have learned in a classroom, and seeing the real time, real-world application of what I have learned so far while at Purdue was incredibly impactful. This study abroad has inspired me to think more critically about the systems we rely on every day, and I will take this knowledge to contribute to making systems more resilient in a time when the future of our planet is uncertain. This study abroad has inspired me to travel more and possibly look at grad schools outside of the US!"

Caitriona Fitzgerald

"As someone who had never been outside of the US before this study abroad trip, it was eye-opening to be fully immersed in London’s culture for a week. Not only did I learn about many British customs, but there were lots of diverse international cultures to explore throughout the city as well. In between fun sightseeing activities, we were able to hear from speakers about how environmental disasters, such as wildfires and droughts, affect critical infrastructure such as drinking water systems and public health in the UK. It was fascinating to hear from the London Fire Brigade about their response to the city’s 2022 wildfires, and also to sit in on a Fire Dynamics lecture at Imperial College London.

"This trip really broadened my horizons on the ways I can apply my EEE degree outside of Purdue, and I will forever carry the knowledge gained and memories made. I can’t recommend studying abroad enough-- if you have the opportunity to do so during your time at Purdue, go for it!"

Ashlyn Hammond

"In London, we learned about the U.K.'s current water and fire infrastructure, as well as problems they are encountering in the face of climate change, like the 2022 London Wildfires. We heard from industry professionals about the steps they are taking to preserve water and prepare for a warmer and drier climate, both in dealing with wildfires and providing drinking water during droughts. I learned more about types of fire protection, the role the media plays in extreme events, and overall the connection between the environment and public health.

"This trip exemplified how important building resilient infrastructure will become as extreme events and harsh environmental conditions become more common. It made me consider how I can contribute to creating adaptable, sustainable infrastructure within the water industry in the U.S., and made me interested in exploring more about how communities around the world respond to extreme events."

Lillian Slack (center)

"In London, I learned loads about emergency response with a focus on wildfires. We visited the Soho Fire Brigade and spoke with the commander, who shared how they are preparing for wildfire season, then visited Imperial College and attended a lecture covering the processes used to analyze data and understand the factors contributing to increased wildfire intensity. Being with Dr. Whelton also provided us with practical insight into how he and his team have developed tools like graphics for engineers in disaster situations, helping them expedite their cleanup processes.

"I feel that this experience has opened my eyes to other opportunities in disaster relief that are outside of the conventional medical contexts. As EEE's we are being taught skills that can make lifelong impacts on people in vulnerable situations following a natural disaster and I would love to continue looking into those opportunities moving forward."