Arcadia England

With the start of Fall 2014 just over a month away,  preparations are well under way here at the London Center. We are sure you are starting to get excited and/or overwhelmed by thoughts of arriving in one of the worlds greatest cities. This is completely normal, we were all in that boat at some point.  To help you we have written several posts to ease you into London madness.

Today we are taking the day off as Elainey Yerger, a Summer 2014 intern student from Ramapo College of New Jersey. Thanks Elainey!

First Few Days

Looking back on the first few days here in London, it’s amazing to see how quickly I adjusted. Within the first few hours after getting through immigration everyone in the program started to bond. There are 4 different dorm buildings within my program, and the people in my dorm building clicked together instantly. We’ve all been connected at the hip since walking off the bus and it’s been extremely helpful.

Walking through London in a group of 8-15 people can be a little obnoxious, especially when going out to pubs, but it’s a great way to connect with your peers. Before having any official orientation meeting, a group of about 6 of us wondered out to a store called Argos. This store sold pretty much everything you would need, at VERY reasonable prices. It’s pretty much the UK equivalent of WalMart or Target. I was able to get a duvet cover, pillow case, and fitted bed sheet for under £10. They also had relatively cheap hair appliances which a couple other girls bought. Recently I went back and purchased a small duffle bag for a trip I have to Malta.

The next thing were decided to learn about was the public transportation, which is a must here in London. We found the closest bus stops and tube stations, and learned how to use the cross walks (look left first - not right, wait until the light change for the cross walk - the drivers will be VERY mad if you walk in front of them, beware of cyclists). Luckily in London they have it written on the streets which ways to look, which can be very helpful.

This awe would set in and I would remind myself “You’re finally doing it. You’re studying abroad in London."

Later in the day the official Arcadia orientation process became, starting with a small meeting in the basement of our building. They told us about the basic rules and regulations of student living, and then took us on a local area tour. We were able to ask student life employees about what the best places to get groceries, which places are great for going out, and how to use your oyster card (similar to a metro card).

The following days were packed this activities and things to do. Arcadia kept us busy, but it was necessary. We were up early, and by the time we got back home were exhausted. Getting used to the 5 hour time difference for me was pretty hard, both physically and mentally. Aside from having difficulties going to bed early and waking up on time, it was hard getting use to everyone at home being on a different schedule. At times of homesickness, it was frustrating that my family would still be at work when I free at night. During these times I looked to my new friends and I kept myself busy.

During the rest of the Arcadia orientation process, they taught us everything we needed to know about the city. They took us on faulty led tours, gave us a make-shift scavenger hunt through the city, and gave lectures on the differences of American and British culture. The information I learned in my first week with Arcadia helped me adjust swiftly to the London Culture. But this isn’t all play - no work. We were also informed of the requirements for our classes, and were introduced to our internship advisers.

During the early days of my time in London, my favorite part was when I would have the realization that I was actually in London. At certain times I would feel that I was just in a normal city with every day life, but after moments like seeing Big Ben, the House of Parliament and touring St. Paul’s, I would feel this sense of excitement. This awe would set in and I would remind myself “You’re finally doing it. You’re studying abroad in London for 8 weeks, and you’re going to have the time of your life.”

First Day on the Job

During my time in London I am interning for 6 weeks at Futureproof Records & Promotions, a small promotions and record label for musicians. We work to get our clients features in magazines, radio play, and notice on online publications. Along with this, Futureproof also designs the websites for our clients. During my time here my main focus was getting the website up and running for one of our clients.

The job itself is really laid back. Walking into the office the first day I knew it was going to be a great fit for me.

I was welcomed into a home-y feeling apartment compiled of a couch, coffee table, and make-shift desks. Within the small flat there were 5 computers and spinny chairs, and countless different musical gear. I’m pretty sure my “desk”today was an amp. I got to meet the founder of the company, and he worked within the same small office area as us. It was an awesome community feeling, and we all talked and joked around.

Walking into the office the first day I knew it was going to be a great fit for me.

The only awkward part was that I was in a dress and a blazer and the founder of the company was in a t-shirt, jeans, and running sneakers (I think). The other people working there were also in jeans and shirts or blouses.

Oh, and the best part of it all, there is a cat in the office. I’m pretty sure it’s the founder’s cat - but she’s a big mush and is super adorable.

Whilst in London Elainey kept a brilliant blog which will give you great insight into London life. If that isn't enough, head over to our Facebook page where there are several articles that will give you a taste of what's to come.