Close
Why I Chose UCL: Moving from New York to London for My Year Abroad
By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 6 February 2025
Student Ara Kim talks about her experience of moving to London and studying at UCL as an American Student. She is currently studying English Literature, and in her third-year of college
Moving from the US to London felt like a natural transition. I normally live and go to school in NYC; both cities share an electric energy, but London has its own unique rhythm that I’m still discovering in my second term here.
The biggest adjustment has been the academic pace– UCL runs on three terms instead of two semesters, with the third term dedicated entirely to exam season. We also get reading weeks the first couple of terms, which are perfect for catching up on work, exploring the city, or even travelling around Europe.
As an English major, I’ve found the tutor system incredibly helpful. Having one-on-one feedback sessions on your essays creates this personal academic relationship that’s hard to find elsewhere. The structure of our classes is unique as well. While there’s a main professor (called a course convener) in charge, we get different expert professors each week teaching their specialties. In my Modern Period class alone, I’ve had fascinating sessions on Edwardian Literature, Charlie Chaplin, and the Avant Garde, each taught by a different person.
One of my favorite aspects of the program is its flexibility. While I’m taking mostly English classes, I get to choose one class from a different department. Last term I tried the psychology course Conversational Analysis, and now I’m taking an anthropology course called Experimental Cinema & New Media. It’s a great way to branch out while still focusing on my major.
Generally, I would say the workload is very manageable. Besides biweekly tutor essays, most of my time is spent on readings for seminars. Sometimes we’ll have preparation work for class, but generally, I’ve found there’s more space to really dive deep into what interests you.
For future US students thinking about UCL, don’t worry too much about the transition. The city is easily navigable (I recommend downloading the Citymapper app for the most accurate directions)! London is an amazing city that reveals itself slowly, and that’s part of the adventure. It takes time, but it’s important to balance exploration with finding your own routine in a new city. London makes this easy– there’s always something exciting happening and an endless amount of places to visit, but also plenty of cozy spots to make your own.
My advice would be to take advantage of everything UCL and London have to offer. Join societies that interest you, explore different neighbourhoods, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone academically and socially. It can definitely be hard at times, but the fact that you had the drive to challenge yourself and move to a new city is already something to be proud of. Moving abroad is a big step, but if you’re looking for a new adventure in a place rich with history and culture, UCL might be exactly what you’re looking for.