I cannot believe midterms are coming up next week! This past weekend my friends and I traveled to Oxford with the CAPA program, where we got to see iconic filming locations for Harry Potter, fascinating museums relating to the brilliant minds of those who have studied there, and most importantly, the college where Hugh Grant attended. Then on Sunday some other friends and I hopped on a tour bus to explore the White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury Cathedral, and Leeds Castle. One thing I know I will definitely miss upon my return to the States at the end of this semester is the chance to causally explore castles on weekends.
Although I am not doing a part time internship within the Global Business Institute program, I am doing a full load of courses that are immersing me into the various cultures and neighborhoods of London, and provide plenty of insight in global business matters. My favorite classes thus far have been my Islam & Politics in Britain class, and International Marketing. Through my field study classes I had the had the opportunity to explore the mosques of the east end of London, analyze the street art in Shoreditch, cross Abbey Road, and visit the Amy Winehouse statue in Camden market.
To be successful in a somewhat rigorous study abroad curriculum as this, it is crucial to prioritize and be adaptable. The chance to explore London and Europe at our finger tips is a privilege and should definitely be taken advantage of while being a student here, but if you get lost in the excitement of the new city, you will not see the deadlines creeping up and you will easily become overwhelmed. Being adaptable is a crucial skill to possess while being a student abroad because there are many things that will not to go plan for you and you will need to adjust accordingly. The most prominent example I can provide for living in London specifically is changing in public transport. National Rail strikes and tube closures have left many of us scrambling to find alternative transportation at the last second, so you must be on your toes and ready to make adjustments in everyday scenarios.
My top Clifton Strengths skill is the Developer, meaning I can see the potential in others and potential in reaching success in a new challenge. I think this directly translates into my experience here in London because I have had the opportunity to collaborate with friends on new projects were we must scrap any sort of American bias and start anew. I also find myself pushing for any form of growth, whether it be academically or personally in this new environment.
In terms of dynamics within this academic culture, I am noticing the importance of participation. More than just a typical lecture, my classes rely on the participation of students to drive interesting conversations on topics we are learning about for the day. In the past I would have been very intimidated by this, but as each week passes I find myself more confident and ready to supply my ideas amongst my classmates and peers.
Until next week! Cannot wait to learn more about London and grow in my confidence as a student here.