Arcadia England

Studying abroad in London…a few months ago, this was just an idea that I heavily debated with a pros and cons list. Then London turned into my summer destination for 8 weeks - in which I took two classes, and was able to explore a new city while engaging in a new culture. Now, after returning home from one of the best experiences of my life, London is a destination that I cannot wait to travel back to!

As a senior at Arcadia University, one of the requirements to graduate is to gain a global perspective. There are ways to fulfill that requirement without leaving the United States, but I decided that I needed to push myself and take the journey “across the pond”. An experience that I was hesitant about soon became an experience that I didn’t want to end.

An experience that I was hesitant about soon became an experience that I didn’t want to end.

 It’s normal to go into a new city with certain expectations which are picked up from magazines and movies. I certainly did. I quickly learned that London was entirely unique. On the first day I learned that when riding the tube or taking the bus you aren’t supposed to make eye contact with anyone, it’s like some secret rule. Also, no one talks! It’s a very quiet ride where most people either read a newspaper, listen to music, or some will try to catch up on their sleep by taking a nap. I often wondered if those people ever missed their stop. One time I politely told someone “God bless you” after they sneezed. I was ignored, and people stared at me; I guess that’s a part of that secret rule too. When I realized I was sticking out as an American, I decided I wanted to try and blend into to the city’s culture. I began to understand that Londoners like to keep to themselves, but after a pint or two would end up being the friendliest people you could ever meet. As fascinated as I was with their culture and the city in which they lived, they were equally interested and amazed when telling me about their trips to U.S., usually New York City. 

During my time in London, I was able to explore many tourist attractions, including Tower Bridge, the London Eye, Big Ben & Buckingham Palace. After reading about these iconic sites, it was very surreal seeing them all in person. Arcadia also provided excursions such as a visit to Kensington Palace, a tour of the Olympic Park, a day at Royal Ascot, and a trip to Brighton. Additionally, I booked a tour with a few friends to visit Windsor Castle, the Roman Baths and Stonehenge.

I needed to change my routine and assume more responsibility

In an effort to make the most of my time in London, I used social media more, specifically Twitter. The app allowed me to find and follow local vendors as well as larger businesses. As soon as I put myself out there, I received follow backs from many London accounts. I was able to find out about some pretty cool events, including an Urban Food Fest featuring food trucks, that took place every Saturday, which I went to a few times. 

Beyond all that I saw and all that I did, I found myself growing into a more independent person. Unable to just roll out of bed, throw sweatpants on, and be in class in 15 minutes, I needed to change my routine and assume more responsibility.  Being punctual in London is very important. There is no time to waste, and professors will enforce attendance rules. One of the best parts of my day was traveling back from class. I’d be by myself, reflecting on the day’s activities, as well as observing those around me - either on the bus, or outside walking, and rushing to places unknown. I had a sense of how safe people felt in the city. Crime is very low there, compared to here in the United States. In London, cops and security are present, but there aren’t any guns or weapons on display. I felt and appreciated that atmosphere of safety, and I would occasionally go out and explore the city by myself.

All in all, I would not have changed anything about my study abroad experience!

Danielle F. - London Now, 2015 - Arcadia University