Hello, my name is Sean, and I am a junior Finance major at Pitt. A few short days ago I started a new semester studying abroad in London and couldn’t be happier with the amazing challenges and opportunities that have already come about in my short time here.
I must admit, upon arriving I was a little bit overwhelmed and stressed as I had to navigate my way through a new city by myself with few things tying me back home. I arrived worrying about anything and everything, not quite sure how I would figure it all out.
As someone from the suburbs north of Pittsburgh, I am far more used to a quiet, suburban community than the busy hustle and bustle that comes with this city of almost 10 million. Things like the underground, navigating through busy city streets, a very different culture, and the fast-paced nature of such a large city are completely foreign to me, and as a result I spent the first day struggling my way through everything.
Nonetheless, not long after arriving I realized that this program would by an awesome experience that I will forever remember.
I picked this particular program because I wanted something that would provide the opportunity to not just take some classes abroad, but also to complete an internship abroad which would provide an excellent experience, along with some quality programs within the city to view things like history, art, and more.
In my first week, I have gone to some amazing sites both with my program and with my new friends, places like the Tower of London, Burrough Market, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and so much more. These locations have been so interesting to see from the perspective of a citizen of a country with such a young history, as seeing buildings that are hundreds of years older than the founding of my nation has been a fascinating and awe-inspiring opportunity.
As my first week wraps up, beyond spending time in such an interesting city, I couldn’t be happier with both my program and internship.
In the program, I have started on my classes and have really enjoyed my term learning from some amazing professors as well as learning with students from across the country. This has presented a unique opportunity that I am excited to continue.
In terms of my internship, with the help of the program employees, I have been set up with an amazing opportunity to learn not just hard skills which will help my grow my career, but also to grow soft skills, most especially how to function in an international setting.
As my experience continues, I know that in the next couple months I will be confronted with many more challenges and obstacles, but at the same time know that I will be surrounded by many people who will help me persevere and grow through them into an internationally experienced student and professional. I cannot wait to continue this wonderful experience and keep all of you in the loop as I continue to learn and grow with my fellow students in this far away land!
