The International Programs Office hosted students for an early viewing of the new “Downton Abbey” episodes on Jan. 17 in the Honors House.
The HUE and HIP programs held the event free of charge and will continue to show episodes three days before they are aired on national television in the U.S. every Thursday at 9 p.m. until the completion of the season.
“‘Downton Abbey’ is a British period piece that focuses on a single fictitious household set in Northern England,” said Lauren Knight, Harding’s Northern European Director. “The show is written in a fascinating time in history where the Titanic is sinking, world wars are breaking out and the rules governing societal norms are fading quickly.”
There is still time to catch up on this British period show although seasons one and two have already aired. If students are interested in the English culture or would just like to experience a fun night with fellow classmates, Noah Darnell, International Program Office Administrator, said attendance would be recommended.
“Everyone is invited,” said Darnell. “In fact, even those who have no interest in the abroad programs are welcome to attend. We are just doing this as a service.”
Although everyone is invited, Knight said she continues to hope that interested students will gain an increased awareness of Harding’s England and Paris programs.
“It seems impossible that, after several weeks of sipping tea and digesting the dialogue of these fabulous accents in good company, the beauty of a semester spent in England could be easily missed,” Knight said.
Darnell said that students from last year who went to HUE and HIP will be hosting the event. This will give future abroad students the perfect opportunity to ask questions from peers who already have the knowledge and experience from studying abroad.
Senior Samantha Tosh went to HIP last spring and will be one of the hosts present.
“I think this is great for students even if they do come just to see the episodes early,” Tosh said. “But this will also expose students to the HIP and HUE programs. I know some do not even know these programs exist.”
In addition to promoting these two international programs and receiving free food, Tosh said she is very excited to see the new episodes before the rest of the U.S.
“I love the show,” Tosh said. “I think it’s so much fun and well done. My only complaint would be that there are not enough episodes.”
For more on the HIP or HUE program, come to the Honors House to visit with the hosts after “Downton Abbey.”
