I have been in London for three weeks now and I have really enjoyed my class and internship thus far. I am taking a class called Analyzing and Exploring the Global City where we discuss the history of London and visit different neighborhoods every week. Since I am interning through CAPA, I am required to take a class alongside it. Every week, we discuss our experiences and participate in career building workshops.

Before starting my internship, I did not know what to expect. Not only because it was in a different country, but because I never have worked an internship before. One seemingly trivial thing that I have found difficult was adjusting to corporate culture. Specifically, I have noticed that the London work dress code is different from what I am used to. I packed business professional attire, but Londoners dress in business casual. This was not a huge obstacle, but definitely took time getting used to. I had to wait for my first day of work to find out what the “norms” here are. 

Compared to Pitt, there is a greater emphasis on absorbing information and demonstrating an understanding of course material. My classes are structured with papers and presentations rather than exams. I appreciate this set-up because I have been more engaged in class. I do not have to worry so much about taking notes and can focus on listening and participating in class discussions. On the other hand, my host institution and Pitt are similar because the students and faculty are extremely kind and supportive.  

Besides school routines, the main change in my personal routine is commuting. The past two years I lived on-campus, so everything was within walking distance. This has not been my experience here in London unless I am going to a place close to my flat. It is about a 30 minute tube ride to the CAPA center which I must take into account when getting ready in the morning. Besides this, I have not noticed any other major changes to my daily routine. 

Overall, my transition to London has been relatively smooth. I have made lots of friends, adjusted to my class and work schedule, and explored a plethora of neighborhoods. My favorite experiences have involved Borough market and Greenwich market because of the amazing food. If anyone is considering coming to London through the GBI program, do it. I am only half way through my time here, and I have nothing but good things to say about my experience.