Final London Reflections

By: KitKat Brown

My time studying abroad and interning in London has been completely different than what I imagined it would be. I wanted to enter the program with no expectations, because I wanted to be able to take in everything exactly as it was. However, nothing could have prepared me for my experience. It has truly been the most amazing time of my entire life. 

I have made so many incredible new friends at my organization, and I have had a ton of fun going out and exploring London. To me, being in a new city means making new memories and learning more about myself. I have definitely grown as a person throughout my experience, both professionally and personally. My internship at Paddington Arts has been unforgettable. Since my tasks mostly involved writing blog posts, I learned a lot about that process. Throughout my role as an intern, when I generated story ideas I had to think about whether or not each idea would be something that my peers would want to read. I learned how to analyze what makes an interesting story. Something else that I experienced every day at my internship at Paddington is gratitude. I am so grateful to have been working alongside such amazing people. After spending seven weeks at Paddington, I’ve come to know it as a place that is incredibly familial. All of the people here have been so welcoming, and I have really enjoyed working alongside my co-intern, Julia. Every person I have met at Paddington has allowed me to become a better person myself. I am also grateful to have been able to work with such passionate people. One thing I always say is that work is more meaningful when you are passionate about what you are doing. Being part of an organization that is passionate about educating and uplifting the community is both admirable and inspiring. This internship has also allowed me to learn a lot about how to adapt. It is one thing to live in a completely different country, but it is another thing to work there. You have to become accustomed to a different work culture, as well as adapt to things like commuting. I have grown in my independence, and I now feel ready to move forward professionally. This internship was largely independent, and so I feel like I have gained experience in managing my time and staying organized.  

Overall, I am incredibly grateful to have gotten the opportunity to intern at Paddington Arts. I have met so many wonderful people, and I will not forget those people or the memories I have made. It has been so rewarding to be a part of something that gives back to the community, and that helps people. I have so much love for Paddington!