“England and the US are quite similar. They share many similarities when it comes to racial demographics, infrastructure, accessibility, and cultural diversity."

“This is my first time ever out of my home country, and my first time traveling on an airplane, so it has been a very new experience! One challenge that I noticed right away has been getting around within my city. The first day I took the bus to the grocery store, and they sure don’t make it easy for new people to know what to do. Luckily, I was with a large group so I could follow the people in front of me.”

What is one challenge you experienced during your first month? How did you overcome that challenge?

"During my first month here in London, managing expenses was challenging. Initially, I spent freely on tourist activities without considering the exchange rate between US dollars and pounds. After reviewing my spending, I realized the significant difference and created a weekly budget to control my expenses."

What is something you want to remember about your time abroad?”I just made it back from the Western side of the United Kingdom and am glad to say I was able to visit many places like Plymouth, Westminster, and Oxford. One thing I would like to remember about my study abroad experience is the different views I was able to have of different architecture and natural terrain. While the United Kingdom has deep historical roots, many of the buildings and architecture you'll see were built centuries ago. Considering this, I believe the buildings and the beautiful natural terrain are both once-in-a-lifetime sights to see.”

What is one challenge you experienced during your first month? How did you overcome that challenge? “The bus system is the first challenge I have experienced while in Colchester. Being raised in a small town forced me to walk or drive, so I had only experienced riding a bus once I came to the United Kingdom.