I recently had the opportunity to study in London for three weeks. While there, I learned so much about myself and about London. It was the best experience. Here are 10 things I learned while studying abroad.
1. How to use public transportation.
I am very comfortable in my car. I love jumping in it and being able to go wherever I want. Before I went to London, I had no idea how public transportation worked. While there, I became very comfortable with the bus and the tube(subway).
2. Not to be afraid to ask for directions.
London is huge. I never asked someone for help with directions because I was too stubborn. In London, without a working phone, I had no choice but to ask someone how to get somewhere. I am confident that I could walk up to a perfect stranger and ask them how to get wherever I need to without being nervous.
3. To be hot.
The Tube in London is so hot. Being packed on the tube, sweating, was awful. But it was something I had to get used to. Also, London is not big on ice. I hardly ever had ice in any of my beverages.
4. How to keep up with the crowd.
Everyone in London moves through the streets and underground quickly. I learned to keep up with them and not be pushed to the back.
5. To appreciate the government and the history.
I was never a big fan of history. But I absolutely loved how much they honor previous rulers. I love how much everyone loves the Queen. I love how there are buildings, such as pubs, in London dating back to the 1800s.
6. To never miss out on an opportunity to see a musical or play.
I was fortunate enough to see three and they were the most amazing shows. I knew I loved musicals, but after seeing these ones, I will never skip out on seeing on ever again.
7. To be alone.
There were times where I went places to see things alone. Without my friends. I loved it. In London, I ate out by myself. This was something I swore I would never do. I was nervous at first to travel on the Tube and busses alone. But now I could confidently go a far distance alone.
8. To appreciate the dollar.
Currently, for every dollar I spend, I spend $.075 pounds. Money was much tighter in London than it is in the United States for Americans.
9. To dress up.
Everyone in London dresses so nice! Here, sweat pants and a tee shirt are OK in public. Not in London. I don’t think I saw a single pair of sweat pants while I was abroad.
10. To be adventurous.
Studying abroad taught me to live life. To see everything I can. To take it all in and see things you normally wouldn’t want to. London is beautiful. There is so much to see and I hope I can see it all again one day.
