London Calling: My Adventures Abroad at Goldsmiths College

I have been preparing for this semester abroad for about a year; I attended several many meetings, signed countless amounts of papers, typed God-knows how many e-mails to my study abroad adviser at my home institute, and I felt like I was never going to get to England because of the amount of work I had to do just to get ready to go. But it's finally here, and I am typing up this review from my flat in New Cross, England this very minute. People have asked me how I'm enjoying myself here, and though I usually tell them that it's amazing and things like that, I really don't even think that does it justice; I'm having such a good time I'm speechless as to how much I really do love it here. In the beginning it was difficult to get settled in, what with not being fully equipped in terms of clothing, food, kitchen ware, and solving financial issues that inevitably arose, but now I feel like I'm settled in enough to focus on classes and exploring this incredible country. I haven't really experienced too much of a culture shock but there are words and habits here and there that are definitely unfamiliar to me, like which way I really should be looking when I cross the street. Otherwise, though, due to the fact that I have been preparing so long for this trip, I honestly believe I belong here right now because it's been such a goal of mine to come here to study and experience a new place on my own. It's already been so much fun and I'm meeting great new people from all over the world. I still have a lot of time left and a lot to experience, but I really do feel comfortable here, for the time being at least, and I'm enjoying it greatly. I get to go on a lot of cool trips to places including Stonehenge, Scotland, Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris, and see the amazing sights of the UK and Europe. CEA was extremely helpful and understanding in helping make this possible, and I am loving Goldsmiths College. The staff really knows their stuff and are really welcoming towards the study abroad students. This is a great experience for me already and I can't wait to dive even further in to the culture here and learn more about the area and history. I know that this is going to be a life-changing experience and I know it's going to fly by because I am only here for three months, so that's why I am, as I have already, prepared to take advantage of every experience and opportunity that comes my way; you only live once.