Hi Danielle,

I know you’re a little nervous right now, about your random roommates, if you’re packing too much, if you’re packing too little, and what life will be like across the pond. But things have been great so far, and you will not regret taking this leap. I have already learned so much and the program is not even over yet.

Some of the main growth areas on this experience are my research and cross cultural skills. Through my internship, I have learned so much about how to effectively research clients, contacts, sources, etc. I have had to use different Google search tools, get creative on finding Instagram accounts, and locate potential contacts. I have also learned tools such as Cision and Meltwater, both of which I have never heard of, but have taught me a lot of using analytical criteria to find media sources and contacts. As for my cross cultural skills, I have grown immensely from this experience. Having done various other programs abroad, I was not expecting to learn as much as I have. I think the extended period of time that I have been here for has reinforced my cultural intelligence. I have learned a new type of work ethic and a new structure of education, foreign to what I am used to in the US. For example, as a business major I have become used to taking many tests instead of writing papers. But here I have to write several research papers. This has taught me a lot about a different discipline of business, viewing the topics in a more critical, research-based way than on exams.

Before going in to this program, I wish I had known about the balance it would require. Part of going abroad is wanting to explore new places, on top of school work and even an internship. This is extremely different to how things are back home, as I take my classes and a part time job. The internship requires 20 hours a week, not including the internship class, as well as 3 other classes. This, along with wanting to explore the city and other places, has changed my perspective on balance. It is so easy to get excited about the weekend and needing to make plans, but also staying on top of classwork and meeting internship requirements. Whereas at home it is rare that anyone leaves for the weekend. I have learned so much about time management as a result, and highly value a work-life balance.

I was most surprised about different kinds of technology used here. Much of it is similar, but some had shocked me and piqued my interest. For example, I realized when I was walking into a clothing store dressing room that there was no attendant. This was different to what I am used to in the States, and I soon learned why. When I walked in the dressing room, I saw a screen on the wall that had immediately recognized the items I had in my hand, with color and sizes included. It gave you an option to ask for a new size or color, and seemed to make the process simpler. It required less labor and automated the process, which I immediately recognized as a strategic business decision. I wondered if this would soon become more widely used in the States, or if there was a specific cultural difference as to why this hasn’t been implemented.

Sincerely,

Danielle (from the future)

One of my favorite parts about this experience has been enjoying the beauty of London in the spring time!