Hello there! Reflecting on the swift passage of time, it’s truly astounding how half a semester has effortlessly slipped away. As I navigate the bustling streets of London, the habitual uncertainty of whether to look left or right while crossing roads remains, yet the way of walking on the left side has seamlessly become a part of my daily routine. Comparatively, the vibrant life in London echoes the life of New York. Both cities, as diverse and inclusive metropolises, have provided a similar vibe, making my transition from one bustling city to another remarkably smooth.
One aspect of London life that has caught my attention is the Londoners’ pronounced love for Pret coffee shops, seemingly adorning every corner. Despite the prevalence, my taste still lean towards the familiarity of Starbucks. It’s these subtle preferences and cultural difference that add a unique layer to my exploration of London.
However, the true challenge lies in finding balance between academic commitments and the desire to immerse myself in exploration. Juggling three classes and an internship demands a hard-working approach. Each class has its own set of essays or projects, leading my weekdays into busyness. Evenings, upon returning from classes or my internship, metamorphose into dedicated hours of assignment completion, reserving the weekends for time-consuming tasks. For example, before the spring break, I had three different long essays, one presentation, one exam, and many small essays needed to be done. Sometimes, I felt very stressed about those assignments. Despite the time constraints, my strategy involves strategically aligning assignments with weekdays, leaving room for weekend adventures. This approach ensures that I can carve out precious moments to explore the details of London.
Despite having limited time for exploration in London previously, this spring break allowed me to discover diverse beauty across the city. Camden Market’s riverside tranquility, the dynamic energy of Portobello Market with its Korean fried chicken, and the cultural richness of Chinatown’s milk tea all left a lasting impression. Covent Garden’s enchanting lights illuminated my evenings, while UCL’s vibrant campus offered a unique daytime perspective. In essence, this break became a vibrant moment of London experiences, each location contributing its own charm to my adventure.
Furthermore, adding to the multifaceted nature of my London experience is the internship, a component that has significantly enriched my stay. The office atmosphere is not merely conducive to productivity but radiates a welcoming warmth. Co-workers and superiors alike show their eagerness to engage in meaningful conversations. They patiently explain anything I don’t understand and contribute to making my internship experience enjoyable.
I am very happy about this London study abroad decision, and I am excited about the rest of the stay.
