Originally I had planned to study abroad in Japan because I
had always wanted to live there. However, after researching the SCU
London program, I determined that this program had a lot more to offer me.
Not only could I take classes that counted towards both of my academic
degrees (major and minor), but I had the wonderful opportunity to be placed in
an internship abroad. In addition, London
is the cultural epicenter of Europe and would
be a wonderful experience. They also speak English here.
London
has made an extreme impact on my life. Because I am completely on the
other side of the world from my home and family, I feel like I have really
grown up and matured while being here. London itself is a remarkable city full of
life and history. There is never a dull moment or a time where I feel
like I've done it all; in fact, I don't think I'll ever be able to see it all.
Also, because London
is such a diverse city I feel like I have become so much more culturally aware.
I had always believed that California
was one of the most diverse places to live, but I have been proven wrong by London. Working in London has also been such
a blessing. Everyday is a wonderful new experience, and it is so
interesting to note the different acceptable customs and work life balances
they have in place here. I can be sure that if I walk down the hall I
will hear a coworker speaking in a different foreign language - London is so centrally
located that many of its workers are recent immigrants and everyone has their
own story to tell. I feel that this experience of working in London will help me with any future job I
pursue. Traveling from country to country on weekends is very easy from London, and I truly feel
that I have been blessed to have the opportunities to see the world and its
beauties while being abroad. I could never have dreamed of doing what I
have, and I am so grateful that I chose to study abroad in London.
Maximize relationships. Don't be afraid to get out of your
comfort zone and meet new people. I've had an amazing experience learning
about others' lifestyles and cultures. As similar as they may seem on the
outside, there are many unsaid but interesting facts they can share with you if
you just ask. In addition, make sure you get out and explore your city
and all of its hidden gems. You're studying here to have fun, but you do not
want to leave without feeling like you learned about the city itself.
Don't forget or slack off on your studies either, because it will come
back and bite you - you still are getting graded whether you remember or not.