News release: James gets a slice of American Pie

Abstract

Southport student James Phillips is currently enjoying the American way of life during a year long stay at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

James, 21 is on the second year of a degree course in Fine Art at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston. He is taking part in the University's very popular international exchange programme, which allows students to spend up to a year in places such as the USA, Australia and South Africa, studying at partner institutions.

A former pupil of Tarleton High School, James is enjoying his experience and mixes with students from all over the world. Standards are high at the University of Illinois and students are expected to work and play hard.

"We have good sporting facilities here", says James. "But academic standards are high too and they expect you to put in a lot of hours of work outside the classroom Studying abroad, however, is a good experience because you'll make friends from all over the world and be exposed to different lifestyles, cultures and foods. It's also sunny and warm here, so what more could you ask for?''

James will be returning home next year for his final year at the University. On graduation he hopes to do some more travelling and eventually become a professional artist or own his own gallery.

21 October 2002
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Note to editors: For further information please contact Pamela Culley, University Media Office, tel: 01772 894425.