Opinion

A Brief Look at Life Across the Pond

It’s been nearly a year since I first arrived in the UK (over-sized bags in tow) without a clue as to what a courgette, bap or queue was.

I’ve come a long way since that first day and am now a self-proclaimed translator of ‘most’ things British. While we speak the same language and share an almost identical culture, the move to a new country is not any less uncomfortable. While this trip was in the making for many months, the excitement of finally setting foot on British soil quickly wore off. Not to say I am no longer excited to be living in such a beloved nation, but the fairy tale fantasy I had conjured in my head began to twist and morph into reality.

After a few weeks of travelling to London and Edinburgh, I felt ready to begin what I came here to do in the first place. Study. Not the most romantic part of my journey abroad, but certainly the most important. During my course I met some amazing people, discovered the beauty of English cider and learned more about myself than I had in my 26 years.

It’s amazing how many people I know are now beginning to, metaphorically, follow in my footsteps and challenge themselves by living outside of their comfort zones. I myself am by no means completely comfortable still, but when I start to miss home I remind myself how lucky I am to have been given the opportunity to experience a different country, see lush landscapes, and develop new friendships.

Many people have asked me, ‘why in the world are you here when you could be back home in Florida?’ Having lived here I now understand where they’re coming from, but my reply is always the same. ‘I’m young and it’s my time to see the world before I’m bogged down with a full-time job and family.’

Oh and I wanted to know what a courgette, bap and queue was.

 

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