Where was your best photo taken and what was it of?
Melanie: My best photo taken is the London waterfront photo, which is featured above. This photo was taken on an early morning run. There was no one around, and it was so peaceful. It was also the first time it was sunny since I had been in London.
This photo just makes me happy. The way the sun hits the buildings enhances London's beauty. It was a memorable run, and I got to see a quieter side to London. It also made London's size seem smaller even if it was just for a short moment.
If you could do-over one thing, what would it be?
Melanie: If I could do anything over again I would have extended my trip. After my program ended I would have loved to take a train to Paris and then Belgium. Before I went abroad I did not think I would have felt comfortable traveling that far by myself, but after my summer in London I learned how to travel to many different places on my own. I did not think I would have grown so much as a person in just one summer, but I did and I am so grateful.
What was the best place you visited outside of your home-base city?
Melanie: My favorite city that I visited outside of London would probably be Dublin, Ireland. I loved Ireland, and it is such a beautiful city. I was able to take a bus tour and see the Cliffs of Moher. I also went on a bike tour with other kids in my program, which was a great way to see the city. I also toured the Guinness factory. The people in Ireland were all so nice, and the city was modern and historic.
Describe your favorite must-have food that you tried abroad.
Melanie: I love food, and the food in London exceeded my expectations. Some of my favorite traditional English foods were fish and chips, full English breakfast, and afternoon tea with scones. Since London is such a diverse city it was nice that there were so many food options.
I loved the markets, because local venders would come in and serve fresh food. Brick lane market had the best Indian food, and now I am obsessed with it. I also had the most amazing Turkish, Brazilian, Greek, and Italian food in London. The coffee and tea were also exceptional!
Do you think your program changed you as a person?
Melanie: The IES Abroad program definitely changed me as a person. It taught me to be even more independent, how to use public transportation, try new things, gain a perspective on a different culture, and made me fall in love with traveling even more.
I met so many wonderful people on my program, and I still keep in touch with many of them. Studying abroad made me realize that I want to work abroad for a few years in London. I can't imagine not studying abroad in college, and I am so grateful that I got to experience my time in London.