Submitted by Marissa Butrico on the 2018 fall semester study abroad program in London, England…
I am almost at the end of my first week here in London and it has been an absolute dream! I ended up facing a little bit of adversity in the beginning as my flight got cancelled on the day I was supposed to depart. As a result, I arrived a day later than the rest of my program, but it has been smooth sailing since then. I am grateful to have made it here safely and soundly and have been loving every second since I touched down in the UK.
I am finally settled in my flat in a quaint residential area called Shepherd’s Bush. Very unlike UD, I have to take public transportation to my classes instead of my usual walk down The Green. I am lucky to be living near the Goldhawk Road Station, which is very convenient. I am getting quite good at navigating the Tube (despite the daunting map) and using it to get all around this extensive, beautiful city. My favorite place so far is Kensington, where I attend classes. The architecture is gorgeous and there are so many cute cafes to grab lunch at in between classes.
I haven’t met a lot of British students yet as the first few days here everyone was very jet-lagged and wanted to rest, but I have already made so many friends through my classes and living arrangements. In my free time, I have been enjoying going to pubs and just hanging out as well as trying new places to eat and exploring whenever I get the chance.
One thing, I am particularly excited about is my internship with Weller Media Agency. I get to work within the social department helping artists to grow their social presence as well as write articles for Spindle Magazine. My coworkers have been so welcoming, helpful and fun to be around. My favorite coworker is an adorable bulldog named Bodhi who roams around the office all day.
I already love all of my classes, professors and friends. I cannot wait to see what the rest of the semester will bring!