It feels like a week ago when I first got to London, not knowing many people, and curious about how these next few months would go. Now at this point, with just two weeks to go, all I can say is wow. These last few months have changed my life in ways I couldn’t have perceived before. I am forever indebted to this opportunity and it will always be treasured.

To put things simply, this has been the best four months of my life. Through all the pre-departure anxiety, I could’ve never imagined not wanting to leave London in the end. Having the opportunity to live and travel abroad, meet international friends, and study in a global setting has forever opened my eyes to the world. Through this experience, I’ve been able to meet people from all over the world, people I may never have encountered otherwise. Before coming abroad, my understanding of other cultures was largely shaped by media and distance, but meeting people firsthand completely changed that perspective. I’ve formed meaningful relationships with people I never expected to meet, and through these connections, I’ve come to understand their cultures and appreciate their incredible hospitality. I’ve developed invaluable communication and interpersonal skills through these friendships.

Academically, I have been able to apply my learning on a global level. My studies here have provided me with knowledge that I never knew I needed before. As a marketing major, learning how campaigns operate across regions rather than within a single country has given me insight that I’ll carry throughout my professional career. Being able to make professional connections abroad will also hopefully create a pathway back here in the future.

Over these final two weeks, I plan to make the most out of the remaining time. I still have a checklist of things I want to see in London, especially since it’s nicer weather now. I look forward to spending as much time with my international friends as possible before we all go our separate ways. However, this is not a goodbye, but a see you later. This opportunity has inspired me to continue traveling and immersing myself in different cultures. With that being said, I will definitely be planning trips to my friends’ home countries in the future. All in all, London has been a perfect location for this study abroad experience. From the melting pot of cultures, the professional development opportunities, the people along the way, and the city itself, London will always hold a special place in my heart. So for that, cheers, London.