What country are you studying in?
The home of Big Ben, Prince Charles, and Burberry called my name. The Tower Bridge towers over the city, while the Borough Market fills the air with shoppers’ calls. With over 300 languages, and international financial services and businesses, this city hosts one of MercedesBenz Fashion Week shows twice a year. Supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss call this location home. The famous fashion label Topshop started in this city and now is a global success. Decades ago, my own mother experienced the city’s culture for a whole year after college graduation. Years later with other students, my cousin spent some time in the royal land. Before I reveal the city’s name, here is one last hint. Imagine watching Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet in the Globe Theater. I am talking about living in the rush in London, England.
Which study abroad program are you with?
I chose the CAPA Program because it is linked with my college, Albright. I am allowed to take a full class load when I cross the sea and explore the unknown world of London. This program gives me the option to “personalize the experience” by allowing me to both take a full load of courses and participate in an internship or service learning opportunity. It will be a dream come true to intern in London, and the CAPA program will help me fulfill a dream.
What made you choose this country?
My choice to study in a fashion influenced city is because of its simplicity and style. London is simply in style. Pops of colors come from tall beautiful flowers growing out of window boxes. Colorful row houses stand tall on a long windy street. London is also home to a vast number of parks. From High Park to St. James Park, you can walk from tall city buildings into the peaceful world of nature in a matter of minutes.
What were your initial thoughts on moving there?
I can honestly see myself living there for a few months to build my international company. However, I would not raise children in London because their education system is widely different from the American education system. While both systems have their flaws, I plan to live in London only for business reasons.
How did you adjust to the culture?
The culture shock came slowly but surely. Since I lived in a homestay, I had to adjust to two culture shocks. One of the adjustments was the London time zone of hours. Talking to family members and friends was the biggest challenge because when I was asleep, they were awake. Needless to say, I missed a couple calls from friends.
Have you learned anything really cool?!
One of the cool things I learned is that no one is going to get you where you want to be. You haveto motivate and push your own self to do that. The daily tube rides were always crowded and pressed for space. If you did not move, you was not going anywhere.
Where can people read or see more of your travels?
Follow the hashtag #Lydiainlondon
Twitter: @misslondonchic
Instagram: @missfashionchic