Meet the ASAN-UK Committee

My name is Arianna, and I am the President of ASAN-UK. 

I specialise in Law in the UK have graduated from the University of Exeter with my Bachelor of Laws (Hons) Degree and currently undertaking my Masters in Law.

Outside my studies and ASAN-UK, I enjoy volunteering and spending time with family and my two dogs. 

Fun Fact: I have a Black Belt in Shotokan Karate

Hey! I’m Ben, a first year student at University of Westminster studying computer science. I moved to London from Florida and I’m excited to grow and expand ASAN through social media!

I am an experienced community leader and advocacy strategist whose work centers on racial justice, educational equity, and civic empowerment.

I have led grassroots campaigns and legislative advocacy efforts with organizations such as the ACLU of Georgia, Equity in Education, and Fair Fight Action. As a U.S.-U.K. Fulbright Scholar, I am currently pursuing my MA in Anthropology from the University of Bristol. I graduated with BA in Politics from Pomona College and seek to empower American students in the U.K. to share their stories studying abroad and serve as cultural ambassadors.

Rooted in the vibrant culture of the U.S.–Mexico border, I am a Mexican American researcher connecting forensic anthropology, humanitarian science, and community advocacy. Before my PhD, I worked with immigrant communities and volunteered with non‑profits to support binational events. As a Fulbright Scholar, I completed my master’s in the UK and now pursue my PhD at the University of Leeds.

I currently serve as ASAN‑UK’s North Director of Events, helping build inclusive, supportive networks for American students across UK universities. Outside of academics, I play a lot of basketball.

Hi! I’m Briana, born and raised in Minnesota and currently based in beautiful Cornwall, where I’m completing my master’s in Sustainable Business Management. In my role as Director of Events (South), I’m excited to create welcoming spaces and build lasting community.

Hi everyone! My name is Emma Thormodsen, and I’m a postgraduate student at the University of Exeter, where I’m completing an MA in Intercultural Communication and Education. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Oregon, graduating with a BA in International Relations and Spanish and a Minor in Music. For the last 4 years, I’ve been living in Madrid, teaching English to primary and secondary students. I’m excited to help grow ASAN-UK! 

My name is Charlotte Barton, and I am the Director of Welfare & Student Support at ASAN-UK.

I am currently studying for my BSc in Forensic Science at the University of Bradford, and I focus on student wellbeing, welfare advocacy, and ensuring US students in the UK feel supported throughout their academic journey.

Outside my studies and ASAN-UK, I enjoy Formula One and working on cars.

Fun Fact: I drag race my 1990 Mazda Miata MX-5 in Los Angeles, California.

Hello! My name is Jamie Smith and I am the Director of Welfare (Student Resources). I am a postgraduate student at the University of Exeter in the MA in Intercultural Communication and Education program. I completed my undergraduate degree at Iowa State University in Communication Studies and Spanish. I am originally from Iowa and grew up on a farm which has made me a huge animal lover. I am excited to be a part of ASAN-UK!

My name is Meg, and I am the Scotland Representative for ASAN-UK! I am a first year student currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in geology at the University of Glasgow. I love traveling and trying new foods and restaurants. I am originally from St. Louis, Missouri.

Hi, I'm Mia! I'm a student at Newcastle University studying for a BSc in Land Management & Sustainable Business, and I'm thrilled to be representing the North East. In addition to university life and navigating UK life as an American student, you can often find me out running, hiking, playing piano, or hunting to find the best matcha in town.

Fun fact: I took a gap year before starting university and had the opportunity to travel all over the world!

My name is Samantha Jordan and I am the Northern Ireland Representative of ASAN-UK! I am currently in my first year of study to get my bachelor’s degree in Drama and English at Queen’s University Belfast. I love to travel wherever and whenever I can, my latest big trip being to Morocco!

Fun Fact: I have a rescue dog back home named Chance, that we found on the side of the road who has 6 toes

Hi! I’m Amber Ella, and I’m the Golden Triangle Regional Representative (London / Oxbridge and the South East) at ASAN-UK.

I’m currently in my final year of a BSc (Hons) Psychology at the University of Westminster. My focus is building community for American students across the region.

Outside ASAN-UK, I’m interested in psychology and cultural diplomacy.  Fun fact: I love jazz.

Hi I’m Kennedy, and I’m the regional representative for the North West and Yorkshire. I’m currently in my first year at the University of Leeds where I’m studying English Literature and Theatre. I’m excited to connect with everyone and help expand the ASAN community!

Hello! I'm Ceone,  and I'm the Regional Representative for Wales. I grew up an Army brat, so I've lived all over the US, but I graduated high school near DC.

Now I'm studying Wildlife and Ecology Conservation at the University of South Wales. Looking forward to helping out other American students in the UK!

Hi! I am Chris and I am the Regional Representative for the South West: The Voyagers with ASAN. I’m currently a law student pursuing my Master’s degree and proudly hail from the great state of Georgia. Fun fact: I once managed to build the Lego death star in 43 minutes and 50 seconds—that was my peak performance lol!