A new environment

While the idea of being a “foreigner” in London was initially quite daunting, the inclusive culture of UCL had facilitated my adaption to university life.  UCL prides itself on being the first university in England to admit students regardless of religion or gender.  Under such friendly atmosphere, I have been able to make friends with students from different countries.  An appeal of UCL, with its diverse student bodies, is certainly its cultural diversity and inclusiveness.

Nonetheless, just as other law students, adapting to the new mode of learning in my first year had been a bittersweet memory.  Contact hours being only 10 hours per week, students are encouraged to learn independently from reading textbooks, case judgments and academic commentaries.  Instead of dashing through the campus for back-to-back lessons, we spent much time sitting quietly in the Main Library preparing for classes.  As our Faculty Dean says, law students (quite literally) “read” law.  Although it took time to develop effective reading skills, this process has proved essential for our understanding of the topics, formulation of our own opinions and fruitful class discussions. 

Broadening horizons

My life in London went far beyond than burying myself in books and readings.  London is a vibrant metropolis rich in cultures and history.  There is so much more to the capital of England than its iconic red telephone boxes, double-decker buses and fish and chips.  I had spent afternoons and weekends strolling along the Thames, enjoying hot street foods in Borough Market, visiting some of the best museums in the world like the British Museum, and so on and so forth. 

During my stay, my favourite time of the year had been Christmas, when festive lights were lit, Christmas markets were opened and ice rinks were set up.  My friends and I had been a huge fan of the annual Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, which resembled a theme park.  It was where I had my first cup of mulled wine! 

Living in London had given me the opportunity to discover the city’s charm and appreciate its culture.  Needless to say, two years are too short for me to fully grasp its historic and cultural heritage; yet, I am grateful for this eye-opening journey which broadened my horizons.