Only about a month left until my program in London is over and I could not be more sad about it. As the last few weeks are coming around, I have been making sure I soak up as much time in London and the United Kingdom as possible. This past weekend my friends and I traveled to Scotland where we stayed in Edinburgh and got to explore the Scottish Highlands! This was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been and I am already looking forward to going back.

On Sunday we found a special hike that is a hotspot for Highland cows, and we were determined to find some. After doing the intense hike that we were not expecting, we climbed to the very top of a serious of mountains where we were greeted by the friendliest, furriest faces I have ever seen outside of normal domestic settings. Everyone on the mountain was so respectful of the wildlife and were sure to not get too close or bother the cows, all while not being able to contain our excitement for the cuteness in front of us. I will always remember the journey we took just to see these cows.

With my somewhat laid-back schedule, I have significantly strengthened my time management skills as I structure my day efficiently between classes, field studies, and finishing my assigned tasks. Although the class periods during the week are long, I still find myself planning my freetime around getting rest and checking things off my London/UK “To-Do” list. I find ways to keep myself productive and involved my surroundings, like taking frequent walks around London to understand the various neighborhoods and parks around me.

Another soft skill I am actively developing throughout my time here is the practice of having a growth mindset as I am constantly adapting to my surroundings and opening my mind to new things.

In terms of hard skills, have not been as hands-on in developing them as I am not in an internship, but I am trying my best to stay on top of my Microsoft Office skills whenever I get the chance and am constantly strengthening my abilities in group projects.

Beyond an academic setting, a skill I have been developing is photography in my time abroad. I found an old film camera at Portobello Market in Notting Hill and ever since I have LOVED taking the time to practice my photo taking and making it very intentional. Photography is great because not only do you capture beautiful things, but you also capture beautiful memories.