Semester Abroad, Global Correspondents A Love Letter to London

King's College London, United Kingdom

Tammy is one of the Semester Abroad Global Correspondents writing and sharing her experience abroad during the Spring 2022 semester. Follow along and look back with our group of correspondents on our blog and look out for their images on the @pennabroad Instagram feed. 

The moment I realized that I called London my “home” was when I realized that this city had stolen my heart. Why you may ask? Well, for me, studying abroad was not just about the “studying” aspect, but more importantly about the “abroad” component. Five months in a new city, navigating a new country and meeting new people. It was so daunting to move thousands of miles away from my family and friends. Yet, now, I would not have changed my decision to move and start a new chapter of my life here in London.

Everyone has probably heard of study abroad students stating the same phrase repeatedly, “Study abroad was the best decision of my life!” When I heard of this statement, I brushed it off, thinking that they were exaggerating. However, after experiencing the study abroad life myself, I can attest that this is completely true, as cliche as it sounds!

Living in London gave me the opportunity to meet so many diverse people from all over the world, open my eyes to new perspectives, and allow me to meet my best friend from Australia (hi Grace if you’re reading this)! The ‘me’ now after my study abroad experience is so much happier, carefree, and relaxed because of the adventures, turmoils, and challenges I have experienced in Europe.

Moreover, London, with its vast amount of activities, sites, and culture, has given me so many fond memories such as watching Hamilton and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End, picnicking at Primrose Hill during sunset, hiking for 6+ hours at Seven Sisters, and going on many, many trips all around Europe! Moreover, being in London has taught me so much about myself. It taught me how to be more independent and not be afraid of exploring the unknown and new experiences. Rather than live with regrets, London has taught me to live in the moment and take on new adventures if I want to. You only live once, so why not live it the way you want to?

As I fondly reminisce about my study abroad experience, I feel sad that this part of my life is about to end. But, I also know that I am not saying goodbye to London, to Europe, or to my newfound friends; instead, it is a see you later.

So, London, I hope I can meet you again soon! But for now, cheers! xx