Hello again!

I can’t believe the program is almost half over and that we’ve already completed our midterms! The last couple of weeks have been super fun but also very busy, and I am greatly looking forward to the break next week. Having some time off classes to travel, inside and outside, London will be super nice. 

Though my time in London has been amazing thus far, it has not been without challenges, as most new environments present. For one, London’s culture is quite different from the U.S. Something I’ve found difficult to assimilate with is the fast-paced nature of London. Though this is true of all big cities, it seems especially pronounced in London. Everyone’s always running around, especially at rush hour, and Londoners have no patience for people in their way or who slow them down. This is especially true of cars. They will not stop for you to cross the road, and pedestrians definitely do not have the right-of-way here. It can be difficult to navigate a new city and not feel like you are constantly in the way because you’re looking down at your phone for directions. In truth, no one cares if you slow down as long as you’re not standing in their way, especially on the tube escalators!

Something that’s been difficult to adapt to is how long it takes to get places and the planning involved. In Pittsburgh, especially on campus, everything is super close by, and it doesn’t take a long time to get anywhere. Being proactive has helped me navigate this. Checking what tube lines and trains are down for maintenance, or strikes, ahead of time has helped me feel better about navigating such a big city.

Another thing I’ve learned to become more comfortable with is going places and doing things on my own, especially during the week. All of my friends and I have very different class schedules and live in different places. So I’ve had to become comfortable with being on my own more so than when I am on campus at Pitt, where everyone is super close by, or you can meet up at the library between classes. 

All in all, adjusting to and navigating London is an ongoing process, but I don’t feel bound by the notion that I need to be an expert at it before I leave. Everything has a learning curve, from new cities to new jobs, and that’s normal. I’m having a great time here despite these challenges, which is what matters overall. 

Until next time!

Maya