Studying abroad in London was an unforgettable adventure filled with unique experiences and cultural immersion. As a student from Michigan State University's economics program, I had the privilege of exploring one of the world's most vibrant cities alongside my fellow Spartans.

From the moment we landed at Heathrow, it was clear that this was going to be a whirlwind of excitement. Navigating the Tube was our first challenge, and deciphering the London Underground map felt like trying to crack a secret code. After a few wrong stops and some helpful guidance from the locals, we finally mastered it. Riding the Tube quickly became second nature and an amazing experience.

London's rich history and iconic landmarks were our classrooms. We visited all the must-see sites, from the majestic Tower of London to the bustling streets of Covent Garden. Climbing to the top of St. Paul's Cathedral rewarded us with breathtaking views and wobbly legs, a fair trade-off in my book. And let's not forget the time we tried to make the guards at Buckingham Palace laugh. Spoiler: they didn't love us!

Our weekends were reserved for exploring beyond London. A trip to Cambridge had us feeling like we'd stepped into a Harry Potter movie. We toured the colleges, each more stunning than the last, and tried our hands at punting on the River Cam.

Amsterdam was another highlight, where we balanced our time between canals, museums, and sampling every Dutch delicacy we could find. Strop waffles, duct fries, anyone? Croatia offered a completely different vibe with its crystal-clear waters and historic towns. Swimming in the Adriatic Sea and exploring ancient cities like Dubrovnik made us feel like true adventurers.

Back in London, we dove into the local culture. From indulging in fish and chips at a traditional pub to sipping tea with the sophistication of seasoned Brits, we embraced it all. The eclectic food scene became our playground, with each restaurant visit turning into a mini cultural expedition. Whether it was savoring Indian curry on Brick Lane (where we were lucky enough to live off) or devouring a full English breakfast, our taste buds were on a perpetual rollercoaster.

Looking back, my time abroad in London was a perfect blend of education, adventure, and cultural immersion. I formed lasting friendships, gained a global perspective, and collected stories that I'll cherish forever. To anyone considering studying abroad, my advice is simple: do it. And if you find yourself hopelessly lost on the Tube, just remember – it’s all part of the experience!

Name: Elizabeth Allard
Status: Junior
Major: Economics
Hometown: Grand Blanc, Michigan
Program: Economics of Public Policy in the UK