My first month in London has felt like a century. The adjustment to living with new people in a completely different environment has been more challenging than I was expecting. No dryer has been interesting, 3 hour classes have been tiring, the cost of living here has been strenuous but it comes with the territory. With all the challenges being accounted for, I have had a significantly higher amount of amazing experiences than the tough ones.
Similarly to my last journal entry, I cannot reiterate enough how lucky I am to be studying abroad. We have travelled to Stonehenge, Bath, and many of the different boroughs that make London so unique. The people have been so incredible. I enjoy the culture’s blunt and sarcastic sense of humor. The locals are also all super friendly and helpful.
I am so glad I decided to do an internship while studying in London. Work is incredible and I rave about it so much my roommates probably wish I would talk about it less. I work in the purchasing department of beverages for a large company which owns several different restaurants, bars, and one hotel. I am learning so much in line with both my career and personal interests. I do not think I could have had a better placement. My coworkers are also super great. My work day consists of drinking at least 5 cups of tea while having interesting conversations and learning about wine and spirits. I am tasked with doing creative market research, taking part in sampling and tastings, and analyzing the sales and contracts the company has with different liquor companies.
After almost a month of being here, I am finally getting in to a routine where I am able to balance school, work, friends, and travel. After just spending the past weekend on the Amalfi Coast, I was happy to come back and finally be able to call London my home.
