England: Stella Newman (Places: Routine & Favorite)

Places: Routine & Favorite 

A constant in my daily routine is the kitchen. I start my days and end them in the kitchen.

I am an early riser so the kitchen is my oasis. Spending time in the abandoned kitchen helps me prepare for the day. I listen to my usual NPR podcast while I make myself breakfast. Once my food is made the podcast ends and I select a variety of calm yet upbeat songs to listen to. I eat my breakfast and look out the window. I often see school kids in their uniforms, commuters on bikes, workers setting up shop and even horses. In the mornings the kitchen is my haven from the bustling, fast-paced city.

By the end of the day the kitchen serves as a communal space. Everyone migrates towards the kitchen to share about their day, unwind, and have the occasional dance party. We make random concoctions for dinner and leave full and content.

My favorite place in London so far is the Victoria and Albert Museum. It has a vast collection of authentic art that has been reproduced to give viewers a wider variety and transport them to other places.

In addition to the art, I enjoy spending time in the outdoor courtyard on a nice day. Kids play in the water, people are able to relax on the grass and grab a snack at the cafe. I personally love to read books or do school assignments in the outdoor area.

Stella Newman

Major: International Studies and Spanish

Hometown: Middleton, Wisconsin

I hope to enrich my academic experience through this program. I am so excited to learn firsthand about British politics, food, culture, art, and so much more.

What do you most look forward to learning about London?

I look forward to learning about London’s Diversity and Global ties. London is an epicenter for international happenings and as an international studies major, I hope to learn more about the complex city of London.