University of Wisconsin–Madison

United Kingdom: Maria Fichtinger (Final Reflections)

It is astonishing sometimes how quickly time can fly by. With my program coming to an end and my return to America fast approaching, it is hard to not feel sad about leaving London. It is the largest city I have ever lived in, and before coming here I was nervous. The size felt daunting for someone who has only ever lived in the Midwest. Additionally, I was nervous about the perception of Americans abroad. In Europe, assumptions can be made about people from the US: particularly that we are rude, loud, and not that bright. I was afraid of facing judgment from people in my host country. Looking back now on those initial fears, they seem a bit silly. Being in a big city, while it can feel scary at times, has been such an amazing experience. I have had the ability to see and do so much more than I can back at home! Additionally, I have received nothing but kindness from those who live here. Around this time of year, it is easy to feel homesick, but British people I have met have been sympathetic to how I may be feeling, and eager to hear about America.

A tall, stone clocktower stands in front of a Ferris Wheel.
One of the first things I did in London was visit Big Ben and the London Eye

By far, my fondest memories of my time here will be the people I have met. I didn’t expect to make these types of connections and relationships while abroad. A good deal of friends I have made are fellow American students, many from different parts of the country than me. Additionally, one of my closest friends I have made is from Switzerland, a country I have never been to and didn’t know all that much about previously. I have also made friends with students who are from London themselves, and have enjoyed telling them about all the new experiences I have been having. Whether it is a professor or fellow student, every person I have connected with here has been so kind and compassionate, and it makes me sad to leave, but I remain happy knowing that I now have friends all around the globe.

 

Maria smiles in front of a white wall wearing a pink shirt and denim overalls.

Maria Fichtinger 

Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota

Major: History; Cert. in European Studies and Education & Educational Services

Program: University of Westminster

I have always wanted to go to London, and this program fit well with the degree I am pursuing.