When I first stepped foot in London through Arcadia’s First-Year Study Abroad Experience during the spring semester of my freshman year in 2024, I didn’t realize I was starting something that would define so much of my college experience, and honestly, shape how I see myself today.

This wasn’t my first time abroad. I’ve always loved to travel. It's been one of my favorite hobbies since I was a kid. I’ve had the chance to explore different parts of the world, but London was never high on my list. I’ve never considered myself a city person, and it didn’t feel like a place I’d naturally be drawn to. But after just one semester in London, something changed. London became the city I couldn’t stop thinking about.

About three months before committing to Arcadia University, I received a letter in the mail offering me a spot in the first year program. I didn’t know what to expect, but something about it felt right. Saying yes to that opportunity was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I honestly can’t imagine where I’d be now if I hadn’t.

That first semester in London completely shifted my perspective. I met people from all over the world who I still talk to, made real connections that have helped me grow professionally, and started figuring out how to handle life in a new way. I became more confident and more adaptable. So when I had the chance to come back to London through Arcadia again during the summer before my junior year, I went for it. I knew there was more I wanted to experience here.

But this time, it wasn’t just about coming back for classes. I made it a goal to return with an internship. I wanted to see what working in London would actually be like. I was curious about the work culture, the pace, the balance, and how I’d fit in as an American. The opportunity to return wasn’t just handed to me. I went after it because I wanted to learn more about myself and what kind of life I could build in a place like this.

One of the best parts of coming back through Arcadia was reconnecting with the same staff who had been there for me during my first year experience. They remembered me and welcomed me back with open arms. A few even made time to talk with me about what it might look like to return to London after graduation, if I were to go down that route. It didn’t feel like a program that just ends when your semester does. It felt like a community that sticks with you.

I’ve always been independent, but living abroad again pushed that even further. It’s one thing to manage your own life at home, but navigating work, school, and everyday life in a new country is a different level. It taught me how to stay flexible, stay focused, and figure things out on my own.

My friends and family have told me they’ve never seen me this happy. And honestly, I get it. There’s something about London, its energy, the culture, the mix of people, that just works for me. I still wouldn’t say I’m a full-on city person, but this city just keeps pulling me back. 

More than anything, this summer helped me realize how much I’ve grown since my first semester abroad. Arcadia didn’t just give me access to a city. It gave me the support and space to try new things, take risks, and learn in a way that actually matters. I’m heading into my junior year with more clarity about what I want, both professionally and personally.

If I hadn’t accepted that letter a little over two years ago, I would’ve missed out on a lot more than two study abroad programs. I would’ve missed out on finding a place that now feels like a second home and on becoming someone I wouldn’t have met otherwise.