Chasing the Hogwarts Fantasy: Transporting to the U.K.

SEASON 2 — EPISODE 4Chasing the Hogwarts Fantasy: Transporting to the U.K. (Part 1)For many, the magic of Harry Potter was an escape into another world. For Paige Steffy, it was also a glimpse into her future.Inspired by stories of adventure and possibility, Paige pursued her own international journey. She graduated from UC Davis with a double major in Psychology and Spanish, then worked in the admissions office at Willamette University, helping guide students through their own higher education paths.But Paige felt called to experience education from the other side of the world.Her next chapter took her to the United Kingdom — not to Hogwarts, but to Royal Holloway, University of London, where she completed her master’s degree. Immersed in a new academic system, culture, and healthcare structure, Paige gained firsthand insight into what it truly means to be an international student.Today, she uses that experience to support students globally through the Unibuddy student ambassador platform, helping future international students navigate the uncertainties she once faced.In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Paige reflects on storytelling, study abroad, career pivots, and the courage to chase the life you imagine.Episode Summary03:20 – Paige shares her background, academic journey, and career in student education. 07:05 – How her love for stories influenced her professional path. 08:09 – The role teachers — and Harry Potter — played in shaping her aspirations. 09:24 – Why she chose to pursue graduate studies in the U.K. rather than remain in the U.S. 11:44 – How Steve Jobs’ Stanford commencement speech connects to Paige’s story. 12:37 – How studying abroad transformed her perspective on being an international student. 16:55 – Comparing the National Health System in the U.K. to healthcare in the U.S. 19:36 – How her U.K. experience now helps her guide international students. 20:53 – Someone she would spend a day with, dead or alive.