London: Fun, Friends, and Food Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The University of London uses a very different evaluation system than the US. There are practically no tests during the semester and very little work to be handed in; however, there is a lot more independent reading and research required for the various papers towards the end of term. Exams for the entire year's courses take place in a 6 week period from May to June, and there is a 4 week break for Easter Holidays in April where you can study for exams (although most abroad students choose to travel). For computer science classes in particular, I found the work load much less demanding, and most professors are very understanding. Another important difference in the academic systems is that professors are not the sole deciders of your marks: papers and exams are submitted anonymously to review boards in order to have a more fair and unbiased grading system. Class attendance is mandatory for smaller classes, but you experience the same thinning of participation and students as the semester goes on.

On-site administration of your program

The registration process at Queen Mary is a bit daunting and stressful as it requires visiting each academic department in person to get approved for individual courses, something that cannot be done until about 2 days before classes begin. However, everything will work out! Be patient and they will help you through this stressful time. The abroad department here keeps up a regular correspondence with students throughout the semester, which is incredibly helpful in keeping up with organized events and trips.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Most people in the Arcadia program were placed on campus in flats. Each room is quite spacious and has its own bed, bathroom, shower, mini fridge, and desk. There is also a kitchen shared with the entire flat (about 6 - 10 people). None of the dorms (as of right now) have wireless internet, but you are provided internet for free as well as an ethernet cord. I recommend bringing a portable wireless router (apple airport runs you about $150 but you can DEFINITELY find cheaper) if you like to have people over to work on projects or want to share your internet.

There are a few venues to buy food on campus (The Ground for paninis, Drapers for burgers and bar food, and the Curve for "homey" meals), but most students cook food or go out to eat. There are several grocery stores on / around campus (about 4 within a mile and one right next to campus), and public transportation makes it easy to get to and from them. Unfortunately, Mile End, the area surrounding campus, is a very Fried Chicken predominant neighborhood. There are a lot of great restaurants as you head west towards the city, and the East End has a famous street called Brick Lane where you can find great deals on Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants. Obviously England isn't known for its cuisine, but London is such an international food mecca that you would be making a HUGE mistake to not explore the many markets and restaurants available to you here. Camden, Brick Lane, Portobello, and Spitalfields offer great market food options on the weekends as well as bargain shopping. Covent Gardens, one of the most touristy places in the city, is a great place to find cafes and pie shops. This is also a location for Ben's Cookies, a homemade cookie shop that recently expanded from Oxford to London and other parts of England. Some of the food must do's: 1. Brick Lane Curry 2. Fish and Chips (Rock and Sole Plaice, Fish Bones, etc.) 3. Ben's Cookies 4. Scoop Gelato 5. Hummus Bros 6. Square Pie / Battersea Pie 7. West Cornwall Pasty Company And much much more!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The party scene in London is obviously amazing, although it is extremely expensive. Keep your eye out for student nights at various clubs, and be prepared to spend a lot of money at bars if you like going out to drink and socialize. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are popular going out nights because of student discounts, and make sure to take advantage of the student union's events as they are very convenient and fairly inexpensive.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

London is fairly safe if you are vigilant and careful. Just like any other city, there are a lot of reports of muggings and pick pockets, but as long as you remain aware of your surroundings (and don't get so drunk that you can't walk home), you will be fine. Make smart choices and use your common sense.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• International Students
• Americans

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