Hi! My name is Kylie Carmichael, and I am a junior at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in Marketing and working toward a certificate in Digital Media. This semester, I am studying abroad in London through the Global Business Institute Semester program, which gives me the opportunity to take classes while interning part-time. 

London has always been somewhere I have been interested in traveling to, so the chance to live and study here for a semester aligned perfectly with my interests. London offers everything from history, diverse culture, and lots of fun activities to explore throughout the city, keeping me busy throughout my time here. I also felt as though London would be the perfect place to gain first-hand experience in how businesses connect with audiences around the world. One of my goals for this semester is to push myself out of my comfort zone, which I already feel like I am succeeding at. From adapting to a new city, balancing my internship and schoolwork, navigating the tube system, and making new friends, I have been challenged every day since being here. 

One of the most exciting parts of my time abroad is my part-time internship with Kind Community, a company focused on helping scale purpose-driven and sustainable businesses. As a marketing intern, I am involved from everything from creating engaging social media content to assisting with networking events. I am looking forward to being a part of projects that make an impact while building my marketing skills and learning from inspiring entrepreneurs.  

My flat is located in Maida Vale, a very peaceful and residential neighborhood. My flatmates include four other students from Pitt and one from the University of Minnesota. Although none of us knew each other prior to our program, we clicked immediately, and living with a fun and supportive group has made adjusting to life in London much easier.

So far, I have been busy balancing my classes, internship, and exploring London. I have already had the chance to visit London’s iconic landmarks such as the Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and even took a day trip to Stonehenge and the Roman Baths. 

Although London is much larger than Pittsburgh, it has a similar sense of community and endless things to do that make it feel familiar. My first week here has gone by so fast, and I am excited for all the adventures, learning experiences, and growth the rest of the semester will bring!