Juliana Medei, Plus3 United Kingdom, Summer 2026
Living abroad in the United Kingdom was an experience that taught me much more than I expected. While I traveled to learn about healthcare and experience a new culture, I also gained valuable lessons about independence, adaptability, and daily life in a different country.
One of the biggest adjustments was learning how to use public transportation. Back home, I rely on a car to get around, so using trains and buses was a completely different experience. At first, it seemed overwhelming, but I quickly learned how efficient and convenient it was. By the end of the trip, navigating stations and reading transportation maps became much easier and helped me feel more confident traveling independently.
Another interesting aspect of living abroad was adapting to everyday differences in culture. Although the United States and the United Kingdom share the same language, there were still many small differences. From hearing different phrases and accents to experiencing different customs and routines, I was constantly learning something new. Even simple things like ordering food, shopping, and paying with pounds instead of dollars required some adjustment.
Living abroad also helped me become more independent. Being away from home meant I had to step outside of my comfort zone and navigate unfamiliar situations on my own. Whether it was figuring out transportation, managing my spending, or exploring a new city, I learned to be more confident in my ability to handle challenges. Each day brought new experiences that encouraged me to be flexible and open-minded.
Another important part of the experience was traveling with a group. Spending time with classmates allowed us to share new experiences and support one another throughout the trip. We learned together during lectures and site visits, but we also created memories while exploring Birmingham and London. Having a group made the experience more enjoyable and helped me build stronger relationships with my peers.
One thing I particularly appreciated was how walkable many areas were. In both Birmingham and London, it was common to see people walking to shops, restaurants, and attractions. This was very different from my hometown, where driving is often necessary. Walking through the cities allowed me to experience the culture more closely and notice details I may have otherwise missed.
Overall, living abroad taught me that growth often comes from stepping outside of familiar surroundings. The experience helped me become more independent, adaptable, and confident while also giving me a greater appreciation for different cultures and ways of life. These lessons will stay with me long after the trip has ended and will continue to influence both my personal and professional future.
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