During my time in the GBI London program, I am studying at Richmond American University London. Richmond American University London is a small university located right outside central London in Chiswick Park. Chiswick Park is a large, modern area filled with various corporate offices, cafes, and restaurants. During my time abroad, I am taking three different classes. Two of my classes are for my Digital Media certificate, while one of my classes is for my Finance major.

One of the most interesting classes I have is Introduction to Communications and Media. This class is has roughly twenty students, which is a lot smaller than what I am used to back home. Throughout my time in this class, we have had lessons exploring various types of media, ranging from movies and television to social media and photography. I chose to pursue a Digital Media certificate because I’m fascinated by all types of media, and this class has also been a unique experience as people have been able to share their experiences with media from their home countries. The second class I am taking is Studio Photography, where I have been able to practice photography in various types of environments. Using a camera I borrowed from the school, I was able to take photos at local parks, at home, or in the studio in the school. Although photography has been an interest of mine, I have loved getting to learn about it in an academic setting and apply these skills in various different settings. Finally, I am taking Fintech. This course has people from many different majors, so I have been able to learn about the topic from many different perspectives. Additionally, I have loved the opportunity to get to learn about how fintechs operate under the different regulations within the United States, EU, and UK.

Overall, my courses are similar to my past experiences at Pitt, with a professor lecturing in front of the class while students take notes and listen. On the other hand though, my classes have some key differences. My classes are all nearly three hours, and I have not taken any classes longer than 1.5 hours at Pitt. This timing difference has taught me the importance of ensuring that I am energized before class and practicing certain note-taking and listening strategies in order to stay focused throughout the entire three hours. Additionally, some lectures have certain words or concepts that would be more familiar to UK-natives, which is why I have learned it is important to go in with an open mindset and not be afraid to do further research or ask questions. In my experience talking with some of the students from the university, there are also a few cultural differences. For example, there is more of an emphasis on work-life balance and people tend to be more reserved in academic/professional environments. I have loved noticing some of the difference in details between my academic experience in London versus at Pitt, and I have learned to become more adaptable to these new circumstances. Overall, adjusting to this new academic environment has been such a crucial experience to understanding the world around me better and I have been so grateful to be able to explore the UK while pursuing my studies at Richmond American University London!