England: Bella Kim (Local Interactions)

One of the most memorable interactions I had in my program city, London, was when I met a new British friend at a concert. It was such a spontaneous experience that led to a great connection. We bonded over our shared taste in music, and from that initial meeting, we started getting to know each other better. Now, she and I have become really close friends, keeping in touch regularly and planning days out together whenever she’s back in London from her university in northern UK. Having her as a friend has enriched my time here immensely, offering me insights into the local culture and city life from a native perspective. I am so grateful to have developed such a strong bond abroad and feel incredibly fortunate to have found a friend who makes my experience here even more meaningful.

Beyond the excitement of meeting at the concert, our friendship has grown to include some amazing memories exploring London together. We’ve spent afternoons discovering hidden cafes, visiting museums, and even taking spontaneous trips to nearby markets. She has introduced me to some of her favorite local spots and shown me parts of the city I might never have discovered on my own. Through her, I’ve come to understand aspects of British culture that go beyond what I’ve learned in class or on my own. This friendship has been such an important part of my experience abroad, grounding me in a sense of belonging and giving me a real glimpse into life here from a local’s viewpoint. Our connection is one of the most cherished aspects of my time in London, and I’m excited to see how our friendship will continue to grow even after I return home.

Bella Kim

Hometown: Brookfield, Wisconsin

Major: International Studies, Spanish

Program: University of Westminster

I chose this program because I wanted to return to what I call my second home. After participating in the Global Launch in London program my freshman year, I truly found London to be my new home. It has enhanced my cultural perspective, allowing me to experience other cultures and my own where I would not have the same opportunities at home. This program specifically has an internship and is an exchange. The internship would only build my resume and skills even more while also providing that international aspect I desire to have. Having classes with British students and other international students is also something I look forward to as I hope to forge international connections and friendships.

A professional goal I have for this program is to facilitate my intellectual growth through the internship aspect of the program. As an International Studies major, I hope to gain more insight into the British lens and use that in my future academic career. I hope to come back more knowledgeable after being exposed to different and new concepts and experiences that will help frame all aspects of my life