London Spring 2022
In the spring of 2022 I embarked on a semester long study abroad program in the city of London. This program, through the Ithaca College London Center, allowed me the opportunity to continue my academic career while embarking on new cultural experiences in London and beyond. Below are some of thee important lessons and skills I learned during this semester.
Learning and Loving Independence
Moving to London mean learning how to function independently outside of a college campus bubble. I had to get in a routine of navigating public transportation, always cooking for myself, and budgeting how to live in an expensive city for five months.
While this was a challenge, I learned the importance of valuing my own independence. Studying at the London Center offers many wonderful opportunities to connect with other students and I enjoyed this greatly, but I also found much opportunity to develop a better relationship with myself.
I learned to love spending time with myself by going to parks, cafes, and museums alone. One of my favorite adventures this semester was to Bath, where I toured the Jane Austen Centre. I wouldn't have been able to squeeze in this trip with another person, so I took the train there alone and walked around the town for the day.
Being totally independent requires vigilant maturity. My own personal responsibility has grown immensely.
One of many selfies I took on my solo trip to Bath
Not All Plans Go Smoothly
In Germany, my connecting train from Frankfurt to Amsterdam was canceled. I found myself surrounded by German-speaking individuals with no idea what to do. Instead of dwelling on the complications of my situation, I instead began to work towards solutions. How could I translate the departures board? Did any of the employees speak English?
I became an expert travel planner over the course of the semester. With COVID requirements varying by country, there was a lot of planning that had to go into trips to Europe. Still, even with printed and digital copies of pre-purchased train tickets, hostel bookings, COVID tests, and flight passes, not everything went smoothly.
A good leader plans ahead but also knows when they ned to step away from plans and assess the current moment. I learned that nothing can prepare me for random circumstance, and stressing about what might happen will not do anything to prevent hypothetical scenarios. The best thing to be as a leader is both prepared and flexible.
The Frankfurt Train Station, where I was stuck for several hours after my train was cancelled.
Embracing Differences
Fries are called chips. Restaurants do not have unsweet iced tea. I sat for a long time in restaurants many times before understanding that the bill would not be brought to me unless I requested it.
More than anything, the cultural differences used to make me feel lonely. I was constantly being reminded that I was in a place that I did not fully understand.
But part of studying abroad is contending with a new culture. Embracing these differences is important to respecting other cultures and learning what other people might need or expect from you in international business environments. I always tried to see the cultural differences as exciting rather than frustrating.
My first steak and ale pie, a classic English dish