2024 Summer - Reflections on the Study Tour at University College London, UK (Excerpt)
- Student Yan
During this hot summer, I had the privilege of embarking on a study tour to University College London (UCL), starting a remarkable one-month experience of academic and cultural exchange. This journey was not just a feast of knowledge but also a spiritual cleansing and cultural exploration. In this short yet fulfilling time, I experienced significant advancements in language skills, the clash of educational philosophies, the exploration of historical sites, and the enjoyment of diverse culinary delights—every moment was profound and unforgettable.
The first stop of the study tour was a three-week language course. Upon arriving in London, I inevitably felt some apprehension in this entirely new linguistic environment. However, UCL's rigorous yet flexible teaching approach quickly alleviated my concerns. The course was scientifically designed, with in-depth analysis of grammatical structures, practical dialogue simulations, and specialized training for academic communication. The teachers were not only professionals but also passionate, using vivid examples and patient guidance to help us gradually overcome language barriers and build our confidence in expressing ourselves in English. This experience not only significantly improved my language skills but also laid a solid foundation for my subsequent educational coursework.
Following that was a week of educational courses. The content was rich and varied, covering everything from educational theory to instructional design, educational policy analysis to innovations in educational technology. Each class opened a new door to the world. Here, I deeply felt the diversity and cutting-edge nature of educational philosophies, and I met teacher trainees from prestigious universities around the world. Engaging with them was immensely beneficial. Together, we discussed the essence, purpose, and future trends of education, and this exchange of ideas undoubtedly injected new motivation and inspiration into my future educational endeavors.
During the study tour, I also took the opportunity to explore cultural activities over the weekends. Visiting the British Museum and the National Gallery felt like traveling back through the river of history, allowing me to witness the brilliance and struggles of human civilization firsthand. Each exhibit carried a profound historical and cultural significance, deepening my understanding and respect for the world's diversity and complexity. Additionally, my visit to King's College at Cambridge made me feel the solemnity and beauty of this classical British institution. Walking through the ancient campus, I felt as if I could hear the echoes of history and sense the relentless pursuit of knowledge and truth. Moreover, a day trip to the White Cliffs of Dover allowed me to appreciate the grandeur and mystery of Britain’s natural scenery, where the sea breeze, rocks, and sunset painted a series of captivating landscapes.
Of course, the study tour wouldn’t be complete without the accompaniment of delicious food. As an international metropolis, London brings together culinary delights from around the world. From traditional English breakfasts to authentic Indian curry, from exquisite French pastries to hearty German sausages, each dish was a treat for my taste buds. While savoring these delicacies, I also deeply felt the inclusiveness and diversity of London’s culture. These meals not only satisfied my palate but also fostered a deeper emotional connection to this city.
Reflecting on this month-long study experience, I feel I have gained immensely. From the enhancement of my language skills to the updating of my educational philosophies, from the depth of cultural exploration to the richness of culinary experiences, every aspect has made my life more colorful and fulfilling. This journey has not only broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding but also filled me with confidence and anticipation for the future. I believe this study tour will become a treasured memory and asset in my life’s journey, inspiring me to continue moving forward and striving for excellence.
- Student Jin
During my month of study at UCL, I gained a lot.
On the first Monday, we were assigned to our classes and met our instructor, Toby. He is a very dedicated and amiable teacher who enthusiastically introduced us to some attractions worth visiting in London, as well as recommended restaurants and traditional British pubs. In the afternoon, I received my student card, which allows me to enter various UCL buildings and libraries, and I even used it to print the questionnaires we would need later at the Science Library.
After class on the second day, a UCL student took us on a campus tour, introducing us to different buildings and the market, and guiding us into the main library. This was my first opportunity to engage in such lengthy English conversations with a foreigner. Although the communication was somewhat halting, this experience greatly boosted my courage and confidence, making me realize that I could communicate in English. I learned not to set my communication standards too high; I just needed to be brave enough to speak up. Even if I wasn’t understood at first, I could continuously explain myself using simple language. In the following weeks, our teachers gradually taught us how to design questionnaires, collect data, and analyze it. I ventured into an academic field I had never encountered before.
During the questionnaire interviews, I initially hesitated to take the first step. However, with the help and encouragement from my classmates, we managed to interview quite a few people. Both the teachers and students on campus were incredibly friendly; as long as they weren’t too busy, they would accept our interviews. This allowed us to interact with many individuals from different countries, including France, Turkey, the UK, and Germany. The cultural diversity is a unique charm of London as an international metropolis. At the end of each conversation, everyone would wish each other, “Have a nice day,” making us feel warmly welcomed as visitors. Through group collaboration, I met capable classmates with diverse personalities, and I was very happy to have the opportunity to learn so much from them.
The final week was dedicated to the TESOL course. Both teachers were highly professional, deepening my understanding of this field. Looking back now, I feel quite sorry that the theories were very academic and sometimes hard to understand, causing me to zone out in class often. Despite knowing that we were too shy and often lacked the confidence to answer questions, the teachers continually created opportunities for us and encouraged us to express ourselves. I was deeply touched by their willingness to consider our perspectives. Nathan invited his students to communicate with us, and on the last day of class, David told us, “If you can’t understand these, it’s OK. Don’t worry. This is a class for graduate students.” This helped me stop the inner turmoil caused by my inability to stay focused during that week. He may appear intimidating, but he told us that a teacher’s primary duty is to “always be nice to your students,” and he truly lived up to that. I am very grateful to both teachers; despite our lackluster performance, they remained patient and encouraging.
The last part of my experience was London itself. London is truly an inclusive and friendly city. Every service worker and supermarket cashier we encountered treated us with the utmost enthusiasm, akin to the hospitality of Haidilao. They greeted us warmly, wore friendly smiles, and constantly said “thank you.” On the double-decker buses, it was common to see a line of standing passengers, while many of the designated priority seats remained empty. The environment here is also very pleasant.
The ground is filled with red-billed birds strutting about, and if you’re lucky, you might even encounter a little squirrel or a small fox. There are parks of all kinds everywhere, each beautiful, spacious, and lush. What brings me the most joy is seeing various small dogs on the buses, trains, in supermarkets, restaurants, and all sorts of places—they're just so adorable! The weather here is also great, perhaps because I came at the right time. The climate is cool, with little rain, and the days are particularly long, with hardly any nightfall. I also love exploring the various supermarkets; I find myself visiting them almost every day! I really enjoy M&S, Waitrose, Coop, Lidl, Aldi, and Amazon Fresh. The variety of desserts, which are cheap and delicious, are some of the few truly tasty foods in London, and I know I will miss them.
- Student Chu
The study tour at University College London has been immensely beneficial for me, and every detail from these four weeks will become the most precious part of my 19th year.
Learning Gains: During the study tour, we engaged in academic exchanges with UCL teachers. The small class format significantly enhanced my overall English proficiency. My teacher, Luke, was particularly patient and engaging. With his encouragement, I transitioned from stumbling through my self-introduction to successfully completing my first full English presentation, which was a particularly joyful and valuable experience. One of our tasks involved collaborating in a group to conduct a research study, and our group chose the topic of peer pressure. We selected this theme because we felt that students in China, including myself, often experience significant peer pressure. Through our survey, we found that while most students did feel some level of pressure, particularly regarding academics and employment, their attitudes toward that pressure were largely positive. They viewed it as a motivation to perform better. One response that particularly impressed me stated, “Life is like a curve; it is beautiful and experiential, and whether at the peak or in the valley, it is all wonderful.” Another respondent advised to “love yourself.” Hearing these words felt like a direct hit to my soul, and I believe these insights are precious gains.
Cultural Experience: During our free time, we explored London in depth, visiting famous landmarks, appreciating natural scenery, savoring local delicacies, and enjoying the liberating breeze of London. We went to the British Museum to see artifacts from documentaries, visited the National Gallery to admire Van Gogh's sunflowers, checked out the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, lay on the grass in Hyde Park to daydream, felt the breeze by the Thames, listened to the chimes of Big Ben, rode the red double-decker buses and the century-old Tube, watched The Phantom of the Opera, enjoyed fish and chips, and had afternoon tea. Not only did I experience British culture, but I also tasted a variety of cuisines from around the world, including Indian, Italian, Mediterranean, Hungarian, Korean, Thai, and French. I met many people from different countries and felt their kindness. Phrases like "sorry" and "Have a nice day" seem to be engraved in my DNA.
Self-Improvement: This was my first time traveling alone, and initially, I felt anxious and unsettled, constantly worrying about potential mishaps. However, throughout this period, I have become more confident and resilient. First, I met a wonderful group of friends; the exchange of ideas during group discussions and late-night conversations felt like a soul-cleansing experience. We fought late into the night to prepare for presentations, took beautiful photos together, and recorded each other's growth. From being strangers to understanding one another, I gained friendships while also opening up myself more. I learned a lot from them, as they came from different majors and age groups. Secondly, I felt a unique sense of relaxation that London provided. As a perfectionist who often finds it hard to unwind, I experienced a rare feeling of ease during this time. I want to remember this feeling; it will become a unique source of motivation for me. Lastly, this experience may have helped me come to terms with the reality of my disappointing college entrance exam results. The world is vast, and there are many beautiful things waiting for me as I move forward. I have done very well already.
London's summer days are long, long enough to allow for a leisurely pace in everything we do. The sunshine is bright, illuminating everything sharply and encouraging people to lift their faces to the light. Outside the pubs, crowds of professionals engage in discussions; on the grassy lawns, charming young men and women lay reading and flirting, their bare feet grazing the soft grass while the sun shines on their golden hair. The sky is blue, the buildings are beautiful, and everything feels like a “utopian dream”—fresh, elegant, joyful, bright, relaxed, poetic, magical, and exhilarating.
- Student Wang
After more than ten hours of flight and over 9,000 kilometers of direct distance, I arrived in a city that was completely unfamiliar to me. Before my departure, I had prepared extensively—buying a phone anti-theft strap, bringing a backup phone, and thoroughly covering my bank card information with a protective aluminum foil sleeve. However, when the plane landed on this land, the British gentleman at customs greeted me with a warm "welcome" in Chinese after verifying my information. The attendant at the pickup area kindly detailed every step I needed to take to leave the terminal, and the front desk clerk at my apartment patiently helped me resolve an issue with adjusting the water temperature, assuring me that he would return if I encountered any further problems. This was just my first day, and I already felt the embrace of London’s inclusiveness.
This is a tolerant city. I had initially worried about potential racial discrimination, but fortunately, what I encountered was the welcoming arms of London. I began to open up to communication with the outside world. My English was not very good, but one time, a Black woman gave me a book. While I was talking with her, her child came over to chat with me. I didn’t understand and felt a bit confused. Then I heard the woman tell her child to slow down because I had just arrived and wasn’t quite adapted yet. I can't fully express how I felt at that moment, but I clearly sensed the warmth from this stranger in a foreign land.
The same scenario occurred in our classes. Whenever the teachers taught us or communicated with us, they would often slow down their speech. They used rich body language to help us understand and frequently checked if we comprehended their meaning. I felt as if I were looking at a kindergarten teacher in them—patient, caring, helpful, and intimate.
I have always hoped to have a study abroad experience during my university years—to see what the outside world is like, to hear the voices that truly originate from them, to reflect on our similarities and differences, and to feel my own potential. Here, I saw a different urban layout and architecture, various museums and exhibitions, and also witnessed the disparities between wealth and poverty. I heard their curiosity about the lives of Chinese people, whether it concerned transportation or a specific dish. I reflected on the differences in teaching methods, the structure of graduate courses, and even the connections to political development. I felt myself rapidly integrating into this environment, opening up to learn, do, communicate, and reflect. Rather than hesitating and searching for various secondhand materials, I chose to believe in myself and embark on this spontaneous journey to explore more of my potential.
- Student Guo
The four weeks of my study tour in London were both brief and fulfilling. For me, this was not only my first time stepping outside of my country but also my first experience in a world-class institution, allowing me to truly experience the intense collision of Eastern and Western cultures. During my study tour, I had the privilege of meeting friends from all over the world and experiencing many unprecedented things, all of which profoundly touched me and enriched my perceptions.
First, I want to share my impressions of University College London (UCL). Located in the heart of London, UCL is an academic institution closely connected to the bustling city. Although the city streets are filled with traffic and vibrant activity, once you step onto the UCL campus, the surrounding noise gradually fades away, replaced by a serene and focused learning atmosphere. The temperate maritime climate of London makes the summer cool and pleasant, with low-hanging clouds occasionally passing by, complementing the Gothic architecture and creating a unique academic ambiance. This blend of history and modernity is perhaps one of the reasons UCL is recognized as one of the world’s top universities, nurturing countless talented individuals. UCL feels like a microcosm of the world; on its campus, you can see teachers and students from all over the globe, diverse in skin color and beliefs, yet united by a common thirst for knowledge. Everyone has their own goals, whether it be pursuing academic achievements or exploring culture, and they can find a suitable platform for their development here. In the streets and on the campus of this city, various languages intertwine, and different cultures merge, making UCL seem like a wise sage, offering a broad perspective and endless possibilities to everyone.
In addition to the academic gains, the rich cultural experiences in London also left a deep impression on me. During my free time, I visited renowned cultural and historical sites such as the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the National Gallery, immersing myself in the city’s long history and diverse art. At the British Museum, I had intimate encounters with treasures from ancient Egyptian civilization, Greek philosophy, and Chinese porcelain. Each artifact carries a piece of history and tells a story, deepening my understanding of human civilization and instilling a sense of reverence for culture's richness and diversity. At the National Gallery, I lingered among the works of da Vinci and Van Gogh, marveling at the beauty of art and the greatness of human creativity. These cultural experiences not only enriched my perspective but also fostered a deeper understanding and respect for different cultures. I also explored famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and the White Cliffs of Dover. Standing by the Thames, I looked up at the masterpiece of Gothic architecture; the chimes of Big Ben resonated deeply, seemingly narrating the history of London. The London Eye sparkled like a jewel embedded in the Thames, slowly rotating and offering a bird's-eye view of the city's beautiful scenery. Buckingham Palace, as the residence of the British royal family, amazed me with its grand architecture and exquisite decorations. The White Cliffs of Dover, known as the "end of the world," trace their history back to the Cretaceous period, and they are said to be the most prominent sight when gazing at England from the European continent, symbolizing England itself. There is also a famous song called "There’ll be bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover," which signifies that British naval officers returning home see the cliffs as a sign of homecoming. Visiting these landmarks gradually deepened my understanding of the city's historical and cultural essence, revealing its vitality and unique charm.
The weeks of study also allowed me to fully experience local life. My daily routine seemed similar to studying back home, but the supermarket culture and transportation infrastructure in the UK opened my eyes to different ways of handling everyday matters, broadening my perspective and expanding my thinking. During my free time, my companions and I often wandered through the streets, explored parks and squares, and mimicked the locals by lounging on the grass, enjoying afternoon tea and snacks while soaking in the local atmosphere. This made me realize the varied attitudes people from different regions have toward life, prompting me to reflect on my own lifestyle and offering me new methods to balance my time between life, work, study, and stress relief.
In summary, this trip to London has enriched me greatly, allowing me to see a different world and providing me with a fresh experience. During these four weeks, I not only made significant academic progress but also broadened my horizons and enhanced my cross-cultural communication skills through interactions with teachers and students from around the world. At the same time, the rich cultural resources of London added a vibrant touch to my study experience. This study tour has been a valuable life experience, bringing me new insights and leaving a lasting impact on my future studies and life. I believe this precious experience will inspire me to continue moving forward on my path, exploring more unknown worlds. Additionally, I hope to have the opportunity to return to London, continuing to experience the unique charm of this city and engaging intimately with its culture and history.
- Student Wang
As I sit at home reminiscing about the past month, I find that it was neither too short nor too long, but the emotions—bittersweet and everything in between—linger in my heart, refusing to fade away.
Upon arriving in London, I was naturally filled with excitement. London is a place I have long dreamed of visiting, not only because it is the capital of the United Kingdom, the heart of Britain, but also due to my deep interest in history. I have always been curious about significant historical events like the Glorious Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and the Renaissance. Finally, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand the remnants of the past, which had previously only existed as black-and-white words and images in my textbooks. Together with my friends, I explored numerous cultural and artistic venues, some renowned worldwide and others recommended by our professors. The National Gallery left the most profound impression on me; that sunny afternoon’s warmth still lingers in my heart.
There were many surprises waiting for me in England. When my gaze first touched the soil of England, I was greeted by mossy green woods surrounding camouflage-patterned farmland. As far as the eye could see, there were sprawling green fields instead of the flat lands of my hometown, dotted with narrow paths and few moving vehicles. Wandering through numerous English gardens, I was captivated by the quaint charm of the homes' front and backyards. The relaxed and leisurely English style drew me in, allowing me to naturally immerse myself in its comfort.
The architectural wonders of England left me in awe. Whether it was Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral, the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge, or Big Ben and Tower Bridge, the Western architecture provided me with a significant aesthetic impact, grand and monumental like an epic tale. The stained glass windows, intricately carved like colorful stone, hold untold stories, while the vast domes adorned with sculptures celebrate the beauty of human form. The children's voices singing in the evening felt like a dream, transporting me back in time to witness the sacred rituals of ancient Western culture. Different locations like Oxford, Brighton, and Cambridge each exemplified distinct English styles.
The courses during my study tour were equally enriching. In the first three weeks of language classes, I met like-minded peers and the wonderful teacher, Carla. Together, we learned various British colloquialisms, explored the fundamental steps of academic research, selected our own topics, and interviewed many local residents. My speaking and listening skills saw significant improvement, alongside a notable boost in my academic abilities.
In the final week, I took a TESOL course, which provided me with a fresh perspective on the subject. Initially, I thought it would be a simple course focused on English teaching, but I soon learned from senior students that it is a branch of applied linguistics. The two instructors introduced us to the teaching processes regarding the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, as well as the current trend of fostering self-directed learning. This deepened my understanding of TESOL and its teaching philosophies, offering me profound insights that will shape my academic and life planning.
In summary, this month has been both an application and reinforcement of the skills I have developed throughout my first year of university. It has also fostered and honed my independence and academic research capabilities, making this a highly meaningful study tour. If given the chance, I would gladly savor the delightful flavors of England once more.
- Student Yu
My month-long study tour in London felt like a dream journey through history and modernity. Stepping into the halls of University College London (UCL), I encountered patient teachers and met many new classmates, igniting sparks of intellectual exchange. In class, the instructors led us in group discussions, fostering an open and inclusive learning atmosphere that allowed me to deeply appreciate the allure of academic collaboration. After class, we would gather to actively discuss our reports and research questionnaires, even conducting random interviews with passersby on the streets of London, gaining fresh insights into the city’s transportation. In the end, our collective efforts culminated in a successful presentation.
During my free time, I left my footprints across various locations in London. Strolling along the banks of the Thames and standing beneath Big Ben, the iconic clock tower seemed to whisper the ancient stories of London. Each chime resonated with the weight of time and the richness of history. The British Museum, on the other hand, became a sanctuary for my spirit. From the mysteries of the Egyptian pyramids to the treasures of Chinese porcelain, every exhibit was a brilliant testament to human civilization.
Moreover, we had the privilege of exploring charming cities like Cambridge, York, and Folkestone, which enriched my study tour experience even further. On the River Cam in Cambridge, a small boat glided smoothly, with picturesque scenery along the way that brought a sense of peace and joy. The unique design of the Mathematical Bridge deepened my respect for Cambridge’s academic heritage. York, with its ancient Roman walls encircling the city center, the stunning Gothic architecture of York Minster, and the enchanting atmosphere of Diagon Alley from Harry Potter, felt like a journey through the annals of history. Folkestone, a quaint town nestled among the White Cliffs, left a lasting impression with its artistic vibe. It serves not only as a significant Roman port and seaside resort but also retains a rich historical background and distinctive architectural style. At Folkestone's seaside, I reveled in the gentle sea breeze while admiring the breathtaking views where the sea meets the sky.
This month-long study tour not only provided academic insights but also facilitated personal growth and enlightenment. London, an ancient yet modern city, will forever be etched in my memory.
---The story will continue---
*This is the English translation. In case of any discrepancies, the Chinese version shall prevail.
