AH! I can’t believe it! I’ve been in the UK for 150 days now! What? I’ll say it again…150 days! Not to be cliche, but where has all the time gone?
I thought about writing something I had learned/experienced for every day that I have been here in England, but then I realized that 150 things is a lot of things. I guessed that neither you nor I would want to sit down to read/write 150 things. So, I’ve decided to lop off the ‘0’ and talk about 15 things that I’ve learned/experienced. I hope you enjoy!
- It’s really hard to get rid of an American accent. Mine hasn’t changed at all and I’ve met Americans who have been here years and still have their accents.
- American accents are hard to lose, but it’s relatively easy to pick up new words. Words like: “jumper”, “chips” and changing “soccer” to “football” and “football” to “American football”.
- Sitting on the top deck of a bus right at the front, makes you feel like a giant that is about to run over everything before you.
- Make sure to always bring a jacket with you, preferably one that can keep you dry. Clouds here seem to have a habit of appearing out of nowhere.
- If you are American, you will constantly be asked about politics, gun control and if high school is anything like “Mean Girls”. You will be told that you speak “American” not “English”. However, other foreigners will always be able to understand your accent and thank you for speaking clearly. You will usually be a source of intrigue and curiosity.
- I have learned that castles are never boring and it feels as if you are walking through history. Which, in a way, I guess you are.
- The drinking culture here is very different. It is a larger and more widely accepted part of student life than I expected.
- I have learned the importance of keeping in touch with loved ones back home. It is always helpful to be able to talk with someone familiar and who knew you before going abroad. It’s also great to be able to hear a familiar voice or see a familiar face; it feels as if a part of you is back home.
- Coming from a place where trains are not the most commonly used mode of transportation, I have loved the experience of using trains (I like public
transportation). I particularly like the architecture of the larger stations. - I have learned how to be more independent. Being so far away from home, I have learned how to deal with a problem or situation without having family close by.
- I love walking around and seeing buildings that are older than my country. It is always a bit of a surreal experience.
- I have learned the true importance of having a good group of friends. They truly can be a family away from home.
- The English seem to have an affinity for the potato. Our dining hall has a specific place on the menu for the potato of the night.
- I have learned that the little things are sometimes the most fun. Such as the first time riding on the top deck of a bus, learning all of the words that aren’t the same between American and British English, or simply walking down a street you’ve never been down before.
- And finally, and most importantly, I have learned how to be truly myself. Coming here has given me the opportunity to strip away all the layers that have built up over time that aren’t me any more. It was a way to start fresh and it feels great to finally be able to show the world my true self once more.
I am so glad that I chose to study abroad. It has been a great experience and I cant’t wait to see what the coming months have in store.
You are missed here, but this experiences is one that you will remember for the rest of your life. Take advantage of EVERYTHING!
Love from Missy & Ula!!!
Typo – this experience
Where in the UK are you doing your study abroad program?
I’m studying in Hull
Very nice, my boyfriend went there. He used to spiders nightclub – is that still there? Have you done the ferry to amsterdam?
It is still there! I haven’t, but I hope to before I leave
One of my best friends was here on study abroad last year and is now back home in the states. I miss her daily but she’s coming back to visit soon – you’ll make friends for life here!
Love, love, love that this experience has more than met your expectations.
I am so happy for you and that you are making the most of your time there. Way to go girl!!
Love you, Grandma Ona
Thanks!
I love your review of your experiences and as a retiree, I considering returning to college full time and I will possibly study abroad. Have you encountered other older students in the school or program? Enjoy the experiences the memories will last a lifetime.
Yes, I have met students that are older. They always have a very nice perspective to offer
Thanks, I probably will travel abroad for creative writing, however, it will be somewhere warm. lol 🙂
Good idea 🙂 traveling abroad is a great experience
Are you in college? It was a wonderful post. You know I’ll be heading to a foreign country too for my college, and this post was like a guide to it. 🙂
Thankyou 🙂
Yes, I am. I’m glad it was helpful:)
Great 🙂 Which stream are you pursuing ?
As if the moment, I have not quite decided. And yourself?
GoodLuck to you 🙂
Bon Voyage! I want to be a Neurologist 🙂
That’s great 🙂 good luck to you as well
I love your list of things learned/discovered while staying in England. I’ve to England twice, each stay for about a week or so, and every time I discovered new things too. Thank you also for stopping by my very small blog and liking one of my posts. I was not expecting any traffic so early on, I’ve only just started blogging. So thank you, it’s very encouraging. =)
HSALA (Hugs, Smiles, and Laughter Always)
Three Macaroons
Thank you 🙂 and thank you for stopping by here, it’s always nice 🙂 I like your blog, can’t wait to see more!