London, England, *Caroline Binkley,

 

 

Stepping out of the phone booth in London

Where did you study abroad?

London, England

for how long? (and why did you choose that length?)

One semester.  I found a semester was a great length to feel like you are actually living abroad as well as experiencing all of the things the city has to offer.

Which program did you go through?

University of Wisconsin - Madison Study Abroad Program

London Spring Semester

Pre-departure preparations

Two orientation meetings with my program and a meet and greet with other students in my program

Beginning experiences and feelings upon arrival?

I felt nervous, anxious,  out of place, but most of all beyond excited!

I had difficulty finding my apartment and how the Tube station worked because I did not know how to navigate.

Feelings of culture shock? excitement? nervous?

I did feel some culture shock but overall since the country I went to spoke English I feel like I was able to adapt quicker because I was able to communicate with the locals as well as able to find my way around since everything was in English. 

Best part

Meeting people and experiencing the amazing things London has to offer

Posing with the Guards outside of Buckingham Palace

Any difficulties? (cultural, language, etc)

I did find it difficult to meet locals because I lived with all Wisconsin students.

Information about the city (best places to go, watch out for, etc..)

Best places to go is Harrods, Hyde Park, Camden and Piccadilly Circus.  Definitely have to go to a Broadway Show and a soccer game!

Every Museum in London is truly amazing.  Just any local pub is a great place to get Fish and Chips and a beer.

O'Neal's is a great club/pub to go to.

What you learned?

I learned all about the culture and history of the country as well as gained a great perspective on how the rest of the world views America especially the way London views America and their stance on specific political views and decisions.  I learned how England views us as a culture and their stereotypes about us.  I learned to be more accepting of others and their differences.

Any advice you’d give to a prospective study abroad student?

Make sure to enjoy everyday because everyday is a new experience.  Do as much as you can and as often as you can.  Become familiar and get to know your host country because you will end up feeling like you actually live there plus enjoy your time more.  Meet as many people as you can and try to stay in touch. 

Overall experience

The most rewarding and wonderful experience in my four years of college.  I not only learned so much about my host country but about myself as well.  I met the most amazing people and made wonderful friends.

Building a Pyramid in front of the famous Stone Henge

Caroline is a student at University of Wisconsin