Noor Zakaria

Studying abroad in London was an incredible and transformative experience, both academically and personally. Being in a culturally diverse city like London encouraged me to view architecture and the world in a different light. I was exposed to many different styles of contemporary design and art outside of architecture, through going to museums, galleries, and just walking around different neighborhoods. Through my coursework, I had the opportunity to travel to cities such as Dublin, Barcelona, and Stockholm, which deepened my understanding of regional differences and influences on architecture across Europe. 

Being in a city as large and diverse as London was eye-opening in ways I did not expect. The constant exposure to different cultures, languages, and perspectives created an environment that challenged me to think more globally. This experience helped me prepare for my upcoming study abroad semester in Florence. Having already experienced the challenges of living in a foreign city, I now feel more confident in my ability to adapt and engage with the local culture.