As I find myself just over halfway through my program and internship in London, I can’t help but reflect on how this new community compares to my hometown and my university life at Pitt. The differences are striking, but so are the similarities, and both have enriched my experience in ways I never imagined.

London is a whirlwind of activity. The streets are always busy, and the energy is palpable. There’s a sense of urgency, a constant drive to be somewhere and do something. It’s a sharp contrast to the more laid-back vibe of Pittsburgh, where things move at a slower, more manageable pace. In London, there’s always something happening—a new exhibit at a museum, a street market popping up, or a cultural festival taking over a park.

Both London and Pitt are diverse, each a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. At Pitt, the international student community brings a global perspective to the campus, but London takes it to another level. Walking through neighborhoods like Shoreditch or Brixton, you hear dozens of languages and see a vibrant mix of cultural influences. London is truly an international city and anyone from anywhere is sure to find their community here.

Pittsburgh and London are similar in that I walk almost everywhere. At Pitt, my day would start with a short walk to class or to a cafe to work. Here in London, my commute revolves around the Underground, or the Tube to get to my internship and my classes. Despite a 40+ minute commute daily, I have found myself really enjoying the time to pause before and after work to read a book, or–my favorite–to play sudoku.

London is a city that engages all your senses. The sounds of double-decker buses rumbling by and the chatter of diverse accents fill the air. The smell of street food—whether it’s fish and chips or kebabs—wafts through the streets. Visually, the city is a feast: the historic landmarks, the colorful markets, the lush gardens and the eclectic fashion all vying for attention.

Living in London has been a transformative experience, offering a vibrant contrast to life at Pitt. The fast pace, cultural richness, and sensory overload of this city have pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Yet, the sense of community and the familiar comforts of home still resonate deeply with me. It’s the best of both worlds, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I can’t wait to keep exploring the city and continue squeezing in as much sightseeing as possible before I leave London in a few short weeks. Cheers !