Hey Everyone! Just checking back in to continue to update on my Study Abroad opportunity in London!

Overall in London, I haven’t had any major issues assimilating into British culture. It’s more similar to American culture than you think! One thing I’ve had a really fun time learning is the different British slang terms for different situations/circumstances in London and the British Isles. For example, instead of saying that you’re tired after a long day, British people would say that they’re “shattered”. To me, this shows a different and creative way of using words for different meanings here than in the States. Because saying that you’re “shattered” technically is actually saying how you feel! Other phrases such as “Old Banger”, a broken down car, “Grim”, looks undesirable, and “Mates”, buddies have been so fun! As you’ll be able to tell, some of these have already permeated my Lexicon for when I come back to the States!

One thing that has worked well for me in the face of change is being humorous about the situation of learning a new culture. In this way I can play off anything that I might accidentally say or incorrectly assume as an American and make it a joke that everyone can laugh at and I can learn from for the future. For me it just seems to be an easy way to break down boundaries and get to know other people better as well as cultural differences in the context of humor. It really brings people together!

I would say that I am doing very well with being on my own. I’ve lived alone for other parts of my life, so doing this hasn’t really been an issue. Understanding the Tube system is super easy because of it’s intuitive nature as well as the Oyster Card, which is unlimited for me in my program in Zones 1 & 2. The card also has unlimited bussing options, which has made getting to other parts of the city inaccessible by Tube possible with the bus. I’ve spent a ton of time exploring the different facets of the city and can confidently say it is the most unique place I have ever lived. Exploring has become a major pastime for me as you can tell by my blog image!

That being said, I dearly miss my community back home at Pittsburgh as a whole. Although I am looking foreword to our upcoming week off because one of my friends from Pitt is coming to visit! We’re going to Scandinavia for the week, so wish us luck!

That’s all for now! I look forward to keep you guys updated about my further experiences in London and Europe! As always, H2P!