As an international student in Boston, people often asked me why I wanted to go to another country for a semester if I was already abroad. And although I knew there was a reason for me wanting to do so, I couldn’t quite put a finger on it. So five months ago I packed my belongings and my spirit of adventure into one suitcase, and came to study in London. During this time, I have found so many reasons for wanting to come to King’s College.
London is the powerhouse of cultural and creative industries, making the city the place where writers, artists, musicians and actors come together. Coming to King’s meant that London became my campus, giving me access to so many museums, theatres and parks where I learned so much about the world and about myself. This was a crucial reason in my decision to study at King’s College. As a communication major, I believe that experiencing different cultures enriches my understanding of interpersonal relationships by experiencing London’s diversity. This challenged me to question cultural norms that have shaped the way I communicate, and even encouraged me to adopt new practices. I’ve listened to and shared stories with others and found wonders in every corner of a city where history and modernity coexist.
One of my favorite things about classes at King’s is that everything my peers said was valued. I felt free to ask questions and to discuss with my peers.
It was so exciting to be a part of classes where my thoughts weren’t only heard, but also validated. At King’s I experienced the power in each other’s voices: their pitch, their volume, the way they can ring.
Finally, I’ve lived in Quito and Boston, two small cities where interacting with people from diverse backgrounds isn’t as easy. However, London is composed of different textures, different colors, where everyone dances to the rhythm of an international buzz. During my time at King’s I experienced these differences, learning from everyone in the city and sharing my own culture. Since King’s is known for its diverse student population, I was surrounded by people who spoke the same language as I do; not Spanish or English, but the language where others know what it’s like to grow, experience and learn.