It’s so funny to think that we are at the halfway point. It seemed as if it was yesterday when I arrived. I have seen such a difference in culture, especially through human interaction. I find British humor hilarious. I look forward to conversations with strangers. I have experienced cultural confrontations. I learned that British people, when giving instructions, are very vague. I adapted to this by asking for clarity or for specific things. For example, at my internship, my boss will ask me to do something in the broadest sense, so I just make sure to ask questions or for more details to help guide me. Also, the food and shopping in general. It may sound menial, but I miss Walmart, Target, and Publix. I don’t necessarily miss those stores, but the sense of familiarity and the taste of excess chemicals. The UK has stricter laws that govern what can go into food. Hence, the taste of foods differs, but on the bright side, this is healthier. I appreciate the UK looking out for my health and it allowed me to reflect on the food I put into my body.
Although these things are menial, I think my biggest cultural conflicts are the weather, public transportation, and the city lifestyle. I think this is because I have never lived in a city where you had to take public transportation, experience winter and be surrounded by the British version of a concrete jungle. It was very hard to adjust to bringing an umbrella everywhere and to the gloomy weather. I miss shrimp, fries, and breakfast without beans in them. At the same time, there is a beauty in getting to experience another culture and lifestyle. I have learned to find beauty in the little things. I love people-watching and learning more about the city. There are so many perks to living in the city; there are so many things to do. While transportation is so easy to get to, Although it may be cold, there are so many indoor or gorgeous events that winter brings. I enjoy the tea breaks at work and tea conversations, which lead you to learn so much about a person in such a short period of time.