As I journey back to the University of Pittsburgh, I have spent time reflecting on the transformative summer I had in London. Living, working, commuting, and exploring in London have taught me more than I ever could have imagined about myself and my career goals. I always knew I wanted to study abroad while in college; I even remember dreaming about ‘how cool it would be to study someplace like London.’ Those seemingly insignificant comments, backed by nothing more than a wish, came true this summer.
When deciding how to spend my summer, this program checked off every box I had: summer, internship, pre-medical, London, and through the Honors College. As nervous as I was to take those daring first steps, I would not have wanted to spend my summer doing anything else. I could never have imagined just how incredible the experience would be, and I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to be anintern at King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Not only did I learn so much, but I also made friendships that I will carry back to Pitt.
If I could advise someone considering a similar experience, I would tell them not to let the unpredictability hold them back. Before leaving for London, I was worried about stepping out of my comfort zone. I remember being hesitant because of the uncertainty surrounding where I would be living, who I would be living with, and what my responsibilities would be at King’s College Hospital. Looking back, I realize that some of the uncertainty was what made the experience so meaningful. I quickly learned how to navigate a new city, adjust to a different work environment, and become more independent.
Entering my junior year at Pitt, I feel more confident than ever in my aspirations of going to medical school because of my experience at King’s College Hospital. I left London with new skills and a greater confidence in myself and my future. As I return to Pitt, I hope to carry everything I learned with me and continue to say yes to opportunities that challenge or scare me. What once felt like a dream of studying in London became one of the most unforgettable chapters of my college experience, and I will always be grateful that I took the chance to make it a reality.
