Warm Welcome

After an 7 hour and 13 minute flight, I finally reached my destination. Heathrow is one the world’s busiest airports. As a rookie international traveler, I was anticipating an hectic and confusing arrival. But to my surprise, my time at Heathrow must have been the easiest arrival I’ve ever experienced. I didn’t have to spend 20 minutes waiting for my checked luggage; my bag was actually waiting for me in the baggage claim area. I made it through Customs in 15 minutes (glad they had a Student ONLY line!) And within the next 15 minutes, I was in a blue (thousands of black taxis, and I get a blue one lol) on my way to Kingston! That was probably the best arrival any international student could ask for!

Once I arrived at my host home I received a warm welcome from my house mom, Miriam. For the next hour or so we got to know each other a little better over some coffee. Then she showed me to my tiny, yet cozy, room. I quickly realized I may have over packed a little. While I was unpacking the other international student staying in Miriam’s house arrived. Her name is Laura, she’s from the Netherlands, and is also studying at the Kingston Business School.

Laura and I both have never been to the UK, so everything was new to us. Although Laura has been to many other European countries, she said London is still quite different. For example, driving on the opposite side of the road! Miriam drove Laura and I to the grocery store and to see campus, it was definitely an interesting experience. After grocery shopping, Laura and I decided to venture in Kingston. We walked around campus, then around the Kingston Town Centre(tons of cute shops!), and ended the night eating Fish and Chips along the Thames River. I’m excited for my time in Kingston. Here’s to this new journey!

- Casey