Adjusting to Daily Life as A Study Abroad Student in London

Getting to Know London at King’s College

As a third-year economics student at Duke, I spent my fall semester at King’s College in London.  London didn’t feel too far from home because there was no language barrier and I had been there before. But there were certainly some unexpected transitional periods. Living in a flat and commuting to class on the Tube were both new to me, as I am used to living on my college campus and walking two minutes from dorm to classroom. I learned to avoid rush hour, navigate the occasional Tube delay or shutdown, and survive the sun setting before 4 p.m. in the winter months.  

Always more to explore

I never ran out of things to explore in London. Beyond the famous landmarks, museums, and markets, I spent many days trying out new restaurants, strolling through the parks, or venturing out on day trips via train. I loved getting almost 20,000 steps a day in this walkable city. I have never lived in such a big city with so much to do, and I am so grateful to have this new experience.  

It was a new academic experience being in class with students from all different countries. I thought Duke had a lot of international students, but the numbers are almost nothing compared to King’s College. It was a pleasant surprise to meet people from all over and share our ideas together in class discussions. I took one class, “Intercultural Awareness,” that engaged us in interesting discussions regarding cultural norms and adapting to new cultures and surrounding—fitting class for my semester abroad.

A different academic culture

Another academic difference was grading, with such heavy weight on one final exam or final essay. I was glad to have had IFSA orientation go over expectations for UK coursework and give us advance help with how to best prepare. My economics class at King’s College lecture consisted of two hours a week—about half of what we spend at Duke in lectures. That meant a greater amount of the work was left to students to accomplish. I was able to meet friends in my classes and apply what I had learned at Duke to help me through this.

Along with people from all different countries, I met a lot of other American study abroad students through IFSA. We organized home-cooked dinner nights, watched Premier League soccer games, and even did some weekend travel.  

London has so much to offer that it can almost be overwhelming. But there is no better time than study abroad to meet new people and experience English culture like a local! Take advantage of the trains that take you outside of the city to explore other areas of the UK as well. I took a train all the way to Edinburgh one weekend, a very fun trip and something I wouldn’t get to do in America. Overall, I think it is wise to plan some weekend travel in advance but leave some time open for spontaneous trips and unique opportunities in London. My semester flew by, and I wish I could relive it. Thank you, IFSA!   

Ella Sheehan | Duke University | IFSA King’s College London Partnership | Fall 2024