Hannah Chadwick
York St. John University, England
It’s no joke when people tell you studying abroad is the best time of your life. I’ve only been in Europe for a month and I’ve already experienced so much.
You may have to step out of your comfort zone and it can be a little scary, but it is all worthwhile. The world has so much to offer and can teach you in many different ways. You will learn things not only about others but about yourself as well.
I have wanted to study abroad since I was a freshman, but I kept putting it off until last fall when I realized it was my final chance.
So here I am, first semester of senior year in England. Missing out on senior activities and the last Pumpkin Fest of my college career was definitely a hard choice, but I think visiting Paris, London, Ireland and Amsterdam makes up for it — hopefully I can visit Italy & Greece as well! Not many people have the opportunity to do this and I knew I never would again.
Every day here is a new adventure and traveling is cheap and easy. I have been studying at York St. John University.
The city of York is gorgeous, filled with great architecture, cafes, restaurants, shops, historic buildings and an amazing nightlife. Although, ice coffee is a rarity, so for all you ladies (and guys too) that stop at Dunks to get your daily fix, be prepared to start drinking espresso.
Contributed Photo
My favorite place that I have gotten the chance to explore is London. I fell in love the first 24 hours of being there. It is exciting, diverse, beautiful, crazy and peaceful all at the same time. There is something for everyone. If history fascinates you then this is the place to go; it is full of sightseeing and interesting places. I’m not even big into history and I thought it was awesome.
Coming to England I knew things would be different, but I didn’t realize how big of a change I would be making. Even though they speak the same language, it’s completely different. I learn new lingo everyday.
One of my favorite things about being here are the hidden corners and alleyways. I love finding those little “whole in the wall” places. They may be small and quaint but you know they have the best food or cup of tea in town.
It doesn’t matter how many times I walk through town, I always find something new. There are so many pubs and restaurants it makes it impossible to choose where to go. People are very friendly and the accents are amazing.
Also, thanks to the location of the Nestle chocolate factory, the air smells of brownies every time I step out of my apartment.
There are many remaining castles, walls and ruins to discover and get a taste of what it was like to live hundreds of years ago. The city walls are incredible to walk along and you can see basically everything from them. I sometimes feel like I’m at Hogwarts.
I have been outside of the country before, but this is the longest I have been away from home. Even though I miss my friends and family, I am so lucky and grateful to be here.
Traveling expands your world view, immerses you into other cultures and gives you opportunities to make friends all around the world. Try new foods, learn another language, be adventurous and take every opportunity you can. You won’t regret it.
