Katie Dinsmore's Spotlight
Katie Dinsmore
About Katie Dinsmore
Katie is a fourth-year Penn State University Park student majoring in Theatre Studies and Public Relations. She is minoring in Global and International Studies. During the spring of 2023, Katie studied abroad in London, England through our London: FSU, Theatre Academy of London program.
Continue reading to learn more about how Katie chose a program, the lessons she took from an experience abroad, how studying abroad will impact her future, and the highlights of her time in London in her own words!
Katie posing after a morning tea and scone in Notting Hill, West London, England
Photo captured by Katie of flowers she bought from the Colombia Flower Market in London
Katie at Kew Gardens, a famous Royal Botanical Garden in London
Katie sitting outside on a chilly spring day in London
Photo captured by Katie of the view outside her flat between the Theate District and SoHo in London
Katie posing in front of the Saint Paul's Cathedral in late January
Katie's Education Abroad Experience
"I chose my program because the courses offered in my abroad program propelled me in my major. The classes transferred back to Penn State seamlessly, and I learned so much about the industry I want to enter and even more about myself.
Penn State sets up the abroad experience so well. The housing accommodations, professors, and events planned in London were nothing but the best. My time abroad was the happiest time of my life and I would love to return one day to visit, intern, or even live.
One of the best parts about studying abroad was living in a flat in the middle of the city, meeting locals, and traveling to nearby destinations on the weekends. My favorite class was Diverse Voices in Theater, and I loved attending weekly shows on the West End. I also loved frequenting neighborhood shops, markets, and coffee bars around my flat.
I learned so much from the people around me. I loved exploring museums, walking around the city, trying new foods, and going to shows. I got really comfortable traveling by myself and being proactive to immerse myself in different cultures.
I will take with me everything I learned from being abroad. In the future, I hope to keep traveling and experiencing new countries. Since being abroad I have added a Global and International Studies minor to accompany my Public Relations and Theatre Studies majors.
Definitely study abroad! I was apprehensive about leaving Penn State for an entire semester. I didn't want to miss out on anything in State College, but I had the absolute best time in London. My Penn State experience would not be the same without it! I am so proud for taking the leap and going."