Transitioning to London: As a WOC
BY SANYA LOPES
In thought, moving from one city to another seems easy; however, people tend to undermine the fact that with moving to another city comes adapting to that city and country’s culture and way of life. As a woman of color, there are three things that precede the fun that comes with studying abroad: safety, diversity, and inclusion. To say the least, London has surpassed my expectations for these requirements.
Maya, fellow London Study Abroad Liaison, and I at a Diwali Festival in a Greenwich Museum doing Rangoli, a Hindu festivity for Diwali
In terms of safety, London is very similar to NYC in the sense that, as women, there are certain precautions we have to take, being in a big city. Something to keep in mind, nonetheless, is that London does sleep! Make sure you’re always with a group of people if you know you’ll be out late because there will not be as many people as there are in NYC out at night. Overall, although both are similar, there is a large problem with robberies and stealing here, so make sure you prepare well with anti-theft backpacks, and watch videos on staying safe in London.
As for diversity and inclusion, London is a very colorful city; in fact, out of all the study abroad locations, I would argue that London is the most diverse and inclusive. I have never failed to see a group of people from all backgrounds in most events, places, and gatherings. Given the level of diversity, there is an inherent level of inclusivity that comes hand in hand. There have been more circumstances than none that I have felt seen and recognized by the diversity that I see. In NYU London, the diversity among the students is equally reflected among the diversity of the professors, which makes all the difference. The culture that London has is so heavily interwoven with the diversity of its population that learning about British culture innately allows you to learn about the cultures of so many different heritages. Obviously, it isn’t perfect, as women of color, we have to look out for ourselves and each other, but, in sum, London is a beautiful city– a city whose beauty comes from its diverse community.
“London is a beautiful city– a city whose beauty comes from its diverse community.”
