Week 11 Impressions by Megan Percell

Recounting My Journeys

Its two weeks until I go back home, and I must say it’s almost surreal. It feels as though I just got here. Every time I mention it to a classmate they burst out and say, “I know I can’t believe its over!” There was a moment about a week and a half ago where I said to myself, “okay I have had a really nice time, but I am also okay to leave” but during our last meeting we began talking about our final meeting, our final lectures and our last supper, I then said to myself “woah, woah, woah, I am not ready yet!” Since that meeting it’s really made me appreciate these last couple of weeks. Its also nice to do and enjoy these last weeks with people that I have created a bond with. This trip has made me appreciate not only others but also others personalities. There are many individuals on the trip that where I realize that if we didn’t go on this trip together then the chances of us being friends, or spending time together would have been pretty slim. I have created a bond with a group of people that I will be happy to see on campus, say hello to in passing and even have lunch with.

I can only assume that for the next several months London is going to be the topic of many conversations. Whether I am the one bringing it up, or someone is intrigued and brings it up, I am sure I will get the question over and over again, “what do you miss about London,” or, “what was your favorite part of London?” As I sit here and write my last blog I have decided to simultaneously write my list of moments that will truly be missed.

1. The chaos in the kitchen

Although it was one of the most frustrating things trying to get in the kitchen to fix yourself a nice, hot dinner, or get to the oven to warm up a pizza, it was usually the most eventful. Once you got over getting your feet stepped on, or your head bashed with a spatula, you begin to appreciate the conversations and laughs had in the kitchen.

2. Random knocks on the bedroom door

Especially in the beginning of the program, around seven o’clock it would never fail that you would hear three knocks, with someone on the other side asking, “what are we doing tonight?” Going out in big groups always brought loads of entertainment.

3. Sandwich World

A.K.A heaven for the starving college student. Besides the fact that I can swear that they put extracts of an addictive substance in the bread, Sandwich World is the place to go if you want to spend less than three pounds on a sandwich. When living in one of the most expensive areas in London, this place is considered a gold mine by FIE students. Breakfast, lunch, dinner you name it, you will most likely see an FIE student either coming in or going out. The best part is the fact that there really isn’t anything incredibly special about this place. All they do is get a baguette and ask you what pre-made filling you want. I never seemed to have the power to stray away from the chicken avocado.

4. Navigating the Tube

Although you feel like your fighting for your life, or participating in Running of the Bulls, there is something about the tube that I will dearly miss… Although, I’m not exactly sure what… Maybe it’s the satisfying feeling I get when I successfully arrive at a destination in a new country, or the endless amount of people watching that I am able to do. From witnessing interesting wardrobe choices, to witnessing a break up or even watching a woman successfully but on a full face of makeup in three stops. I’ve seen it all.

5. Thursday night karaoke

Although I have the voice somewhere in between William Hung the sound of a pig being slaughtered, Thursday nights at the Social were the most fun. This Karaoke venue was a bit different than anything I have ever seen, instead of there being booths, there is just one stage and people get up individually to sing. It’s almost as if you are putting on a concert. Definitely an act for the brave. The crowd is always great though, no mater how terrible the person might sound, the crowd is always supportive. This was always a great place to meet a diverse group of locals.

6. Camden Market

You name it, you can find it. Camden was my favorite market to go to by far. Some might find that there are always too many people, but that’s the part I like most, aside from the food. Tip? Never go to Camden Market on a full stomach, trust me, you will be very upset at yourself. The food is very eclectic and seems endless.

I thought I was going to sit here and make a list but as I write I realize that the list will go on and on. There are so many facets of London that I will fondly remember, I just don’t think it is possible to recount all of them.

London? You will truly be missed…until we meet again.