Arcadia Ireland

I am excited to reflect on all I learned and experienced during my time studying at Queen Mary University in London. However, I want to begin with a list of everything I wish I had known, or packed, before leaving for London:

• It’s ok to overpack (I am a chronic overpacker and I was thankful for the variety I had), but don’t bring too many pairs of shoes. That being said-BRING SHOWER SHOES! I would also recommend a comfy sneaker for all the walking and sightseeing. 
• On a related note-walk. Walk everywhere as much as you can! The tube is great and I used it a lot, but whenever possible, I walked. I have found its the best way to discover new places and learn more about the city. You never know what you’re going to pass! 
• Make sure your SIM card is unlocked before you leave for your trip. Otherwise, you could end up standing in Three with a UK SIM card that won’t connect to your phone. 
• A large tote bag will be your best friend. You need a big bag to carry your groceries home. In general, it’s good to have a larger bag with you because many stores in the UK either charge you for bags or don’t offer them at all. 
• Don’t miss the Club Fair. It’s a great way to see what students on campus are interested in and begin integrating yourself into the community. The range of topics and interests the fair covers is diverse, so you’re likely to find something that excites you. 

Now for the reflection. What surprised me most about this trip is how much I learned about London’s history and how often my perception of London changed. I took London: Walking the City while I was at QMU and had the opportunity to explore a variety of areas in the city and learn about their history. My class went everywhere from Spitalfields to Sloane Square as our professor encouraged us to think about what aspects of the city were different from place to place. Perhaps it sounds naive to say, but I learned that there was so much more history and culture to London beyond its central area. One of my favorite areas was Brick Lane, which is famously home to great vintage shopping, street art, and a diverse immigrant community. Brick Lane has some of my favorite coffee shops and study spots, and it's a short tube ride away from campus. It is a far cry from the grandeur of places like Oxford Circus, and I think that was why I felt so at home there. Getting out of the tourist areas allows you to find the places that feel more real and lived in.