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GO Student Ambassadors, International Placements

Meet the GO Ambassador 2026/27 – Zaria Sharif

20 October 2026
Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Name: Zaria Sharif

School, degree programme and year of study: Law LLB , School of Law and Politics, Final Year Student

Host destination: Florida , USA

 

Your experience abroad

Tell us about your global opportunity—where did you go, and what did you do?
Studying at the University of Florida’s College of Liberal arts and Sciences was the biggest step I’ve ever taken, having lived in Cardiff my entire life before this year. It pushed me academically, personally, and professionally in ways I didn’t fully expect. A typical day involved attending lectures and seminars across a mix of modules, including U.S. Wildlife Law, International Relations and Spanish. Alongside my law modules, I studied subjects that weren’t available at my home university. This meant constantly moving between different legal frameworks, subject areas and even languages.

 

What surprised you the most about your host country/programme/time abroad?
What surprised me most was how much the university shaped everyday life in Florida, and how much it offered students. Campus pride was everywhere, from the campanile lit up in school colours at night to a stadium packed with tens of thousands of fans on game day. There was also a constant stream of free events, talks, guest speakers and social activities, so there was always a way to get involved, meet people and learn something new outside the classroom. I was also amazed by how diverse the community was. I met students from a huge range of backgrounds, cultures and career paths, and that made every conversation, seminar and event a chance to see things from a different perspective.

 

 


What is the one thing you miss about your time abroad?

What I miss most is game days at the Swamp, along with the community and culture that came with them. On most days, Gainesville feels like a university community, full of students heading to class, studying and getting on with campus life. But the build-up to game day changes the whole town. As the week goes on, the excitement grows, people talking about the match, and a buzz that builds right up to kick-off. On game day itself, everyone comes together to support the Gators, from current students to alumni, families and fans of every generation, all cheering as one. Standing in a packed stadium with tens of thousands of people, all sharing the same excitement, was unlike anything I’d experienced at home.

 


A bit about you!

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of your studies?
Trying new things

What’s your favourite place on campus/in Cardiff?
CSL

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year (a dream destination), where would it be—and why?
New York , since I visited last December I’ve been yearning to go back since

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I speak multiple languages

 

Reflections and Advice

Describe your global experience in three words
Eye-opening , fun , amazing

What advice would you give to students considering a global opportunity?
Take every opportunity presented to you