A Canadian in England

September 27th, 2024 | FW LUXE | Jenna Denis

Hours before my first solo flight, I found myself in an airport bathroom, tears in my eyes, whispering, "What am I doing? I can’t do this." The reality hit—I was stepping far beyond my comfort zone, embarking on a dream I’d held for years: studying abroad.

This was more than just a semester in another country. It was a personal challenge. Terrified but determined, I knew I needed this for my growth, to prove I could step into the unknown and achieve something I’d long desired.

"England? Why? It’s so rainy and cold!" I’d heard that more times than I could count. But to me, it wasn’t much different from the rainy West Coast of Canada. What truly drew me was my love for British culture—artists like One Direction and Ed Sheeran, shows like Bridgerton and Heartstopper. And while it was Europe, the familiarity of the language made it feel like the perfect place to call home for the next four months.

This wasn’t just about being in England—it was about living there, stepping out of routine, and experiencing the world in a way I’d only watched from the sidelines.

Cultural Immersion:

One of the most striking parts of my semester in England was the cultural immersion. From the start, I noticed small but significant differences, like the perfectly portioned meals at restaurants—no leftovers, just room for dessert. Grocery shopping was also more suited to individuals, with smaller portions and a great selection of single-serving meals, a refreshing change from the bulk-buy mentality back home.

Then, there were the trains. Coming from a small Canadian town, having access to a train system was a game-changer. I lived just 25 minutes from London’s King’s Cross Station, and in an hour-long flight from Luton, I could be in Paris. The ease of travel across Europe was surreal.

Adapting to life without a car, I relied on public transportation and walking. I also adjusted to quirks like hearing “hiya” or “you alright?” instead of “how are you?” and navigating roundabouts. Meeting people from all over the world—places like the USA, Norway, South Korea, and Tunisia—enriched my experience. England’s diversity, both in its people and history, made every moment feel extraordinary.

Academic Experience:

Adapting to a new academic system was one of the biggest challenges of my semester abroad. Unlike back home, courses in England were split into lectures and tutorials, often on the same day. While the lectures were familiar, the tutorials were much more hands-on, filled with discussions and activities that brought the material to life.

Another surprise was the late academic calendar, with classes starting in October. Though it felt strange at first, it gave me time to adjust and explore before diving into my studies.

The biggest relief was the grading system—since only credits, not grades, transferred, I felt less pressure. This freedom allowed me to focus on learning and fully enjoy both my academic experience and the adventure of living abroad.

Personal Growth:

My semester abroad brought tremendous personal growth. Living far from home, surrounded by new faces, I quickly stepped out of my comfort zone. In the international program, we were all in the same situation, which made it easy to form close friendships. We became each other's support systems as we navigated life in a new country together. Being in this new environment pushed me to be more independent. Without the safety net of familiarity, I learned to rely on myself and make decisions on my own. Each challenge I faced—whether adapting to a new city or academic system—helped me grow more confident and self-assured.

Exploration and Travel:

One of the most unforgettable aspects of my semester abroad was exploring new places, both in England and beyond. Each weekend brought a new adventure, starting with my first trip to London on my 24th birthday. Celebrating there, wandering past Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge, felt like a dream. I returned to London often, ticking off visits to landmarks like Piccadilly Circus and the British Museum.

But my travels didn’t stop in London. A short bus ride took me to St. Albans, where I enjoyed shopping and dining. I participated in "Sightseeing Saturdays," organized trips to Canterbury and Bath, the latter being especially memorable for its Christmas market and Bridgerton filming locations.

My adventures extended beyond England. When my dad visited, we explored Edinburgh, Scotland, staying on the Royal Mile and visiting Edinburgh Castle. During winter break, I traveled to Paris with a friend, marveling at the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, while enjoying Christmas markets. From Paris, I took a train to Rotterdam before spending Christmas in Vierlingsbeek, a Dutch town, with one of the friends I met in the international program.

I also visited Amsterdam and Utrecht, immersing myself in Dutch culture. As my time abroad came to an end, I managed a trip to Brighton, where my friend and I watched the sunset from the pier before playing in the arcade, soaking in every moment. Though I didn’t visit all the countries I had hoped for, the places I did explore created memories I’ll cherish forever.

As I reflect on my semester abroad, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that shaped me. Studying in England not only broadened my horizons but also allowed me to immerse myself in a rich tapestry of culture, forge lifelong friendships, and discover a newfound sense of independence. I wholeheartedly recommend taking the opportunity to study abroad to anyone considering it. It’s a transformative experience that combines education with adventure, providing a unique way to see the world while still in school. Embrace the chance to step outside your comfort zone; the memories and lessons you’ll gain will stay with you long after you return home. This journey has taught me that life is best lived through exploration, and I can't wait to
see where my next adventure will take me