My time in London has been a huge growing experience for me, both personally and academically. Personally, this is the longest I have gone without being home. Last summer I lived abroad but it was only for 8 weeks instead of 14. And whenever I am on Pitt’s campus, I go home at least twice per semester. Like anyone would while living 3 and a half months abroad – especially in a foreign country– I have had many moments of being homesick, missing my family, my city and my friends. Although being homesick like this is normal, I would make sure to remind myself of the opportunity that I have been given, and the life that I am living studying abroad in London – something that is so uncommon for most people. So, whenever I felt upset or home sick, I would turn to the friends I made in London and embrace the limited time I have with them. Although this example is a small one, this is a good example of how I’ve grown personally during my time abroad. I have learned to trust myself more, and have become stronger in believing in myself and my abilities to be happy and successful no matter where I am, even if I am across the pond without my friends or family from home, and completely out of my comfort zone. I have grown to be more open minded about new experiences. I have always been a very calculated person who thinks 5 steps ahead before I make a decision. Although that is a smart way to be in a lot of situations, being abroad in London and learning to trust myself more has simultaneously encouraged me to be more spontaneous – which has allowed me to experience things that I otherwise would not have (in a great way). 

Some main takeaways from this program is to trust myself, lean on my friends and family, communicate, and stay open-minded. Doing all of these things have allowed me to experience so many amazing things throughout my time abroad, whether that has been on a regular weekday, or during the weekend, while being smart about my decisions as well. These are some important things that I have learned that I can leverage in my future life as well as future career. Having calculated steps is important for many situations, but it is equally important to know when to see and take opportunities when they come, even if it is a spontaneous decision. 

During my time abroad I have explored different areas of England, as well as different parts of Europe. I have made lifelong friendships and memories. I can’t thank Pitt and this scholarship enough for giving me this opportunity.