Social activity
NYU in London students become a part of many communities during their time abroad. In addition to meeting friends and traveling companions within the NYU in London student body, they also become members of the University of London Student Union (ULU), giving them the opportunity to interact with local college students. We also encourage them to get out into London through volunteer placements and other extra-curricular activities. As you’ll read in the following accounts, students find many ways to engage with each other and with the larger London community.
"I participated in Host where I stayed with a couple that were both retired professors in Leeds, England. It was very rewarding and I saw another side of England."
"It was great to get emerged into British Culture and society. I saw how things work outside of the Academic bubble."
"Maggie's was the single best way I found to get involved with London, I was not a tourist when I volunteered and I was made to feel at home. It was the turning point for me here."
"Going to church in Southwest London and really building relationships with the locals taught me so much about living in London. It has been one of the greatest experiences of my life."
"Programming, day trips and activities made my experience at NYUL. I am very thankful for the programs. I got to see so much."
"Research quirky places to see. There's a lot of nice hidden places in London that are more worth it than the main touristy attractions."
"Go to as many events as you can fit in. It is a good way to see London and its surroundings. It gives you a good base of what is around. Plus, you will meet people along the way."“I joined ULU's fencing team and it was the best decision I made. I made friends with lots of English students and learned a lot about a new sport.”
"I learned a lot of common sense knowledge from a self-defense class I took at ULU. It was an interesting experience because not only did I find out some interesting facts about London but also met other British (and European) students."
"I'd recommend the volunteer work I did at St. John's Primary School. It was amazing to work with the children and see how the educational system here worked in comparison with the one found in America."
"Involvement with ULU taught me the most about British culture and gave me a true feeling for this city. For students who say "I never met any British people" it is their own fault; they should have made an EFFORT."
"My extra-curricular involvement at ULU was great. I got involved with their dance and fencing clubs and really got to know a lot of people."
"I volunteered at a soup kitchen this semester and it was a wonderful chance for me to get acquainted with Londoners and people from other parts of Europe. Overall it was a very fulfilling experience and I learned a lot about people; and the joy of always doing something for others, especially those who are less fortunate."
"With London, try to go out by yourself from time to time. It forces you to learn the places you're going. Explore the different ethnic communities like the Afro-Caribbean neighborhood of Brixton; the Jewish neighborhood of Golder's Green; etc. There are a lot of interesting dynamics in London other than the strictly Anglo-Saxon culture which are equally British and have merit. And finally, a lot of Brits think that London is not really that representative of the UK. Visit as many other parts of the UK as you can while you're here. It's a cheaper trip than going to Amsterdam or some other part of Europe and you'll see such a world of difference from London."
"I cannot emphasize how important it is to budget. You *NEED* to save money for going abroad. When you are there you will naturally want to absorb everything there is about the culture. This is not always free. And there will be travel--don’t think that because you’re (technically) on an island you won’t be travelling to other places. The rest of Europe is literally an hour away. This requires a lot of planning. There are several STA travel agencies that offer great deals for students. Make sure you have an ISIC (International Student Identification Card) when you make any purchases for travel. London offers great student discounts in almost every area of entertainment, including air, train, and bus fare. Take advantage of it!"