I arrived in London at last.

Yes, I was in London at the end of every challenge. This was my first trip abroad. People who have had similar emotions can relate to how I felt. Thankfully, I have a lot of friends, and one of them came to the airport; otherwise, I would find this to be uncomfortable. I am grateful to you, Yıldız. We live in the same hall of residence right now. I would like to talk about our home. After ten years, I think I found myself struggling to adjust to student life in the UK. Despite its many difficult aspects, I am doing my best to adjust in a variety of ways.

A few days later, I set out to see London, which people around me had described as a magnificent city. I suppose I don't refer to it in the same manner right now. Sometimes when I go shopping and other times when I buy something new, I can sense its sky-high cost of living; even so, according to every data I came across, London is the world's most student-friendly city. As I mentioned, I suppose I can't refer to London in the same manner right now. I went to various well-known places: British Museum, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Waterloo, National History Museum and National Theatre. In the light of this emotions, one final thing comes from a favourite teacher who sent me this Samuel Johnson quote: "When a man tired of London, he is tired of life." I am smiling. I have a genuine smile on my face. London doesn't pose a challenge to me. I simply try to adapt, that's all. But I am determined to take advantage of practically every opportunity to explore this city. I can't say anything essential, but I think that's the fate of people who leave their country and loved ones behind. 

I am sure I'll be able to overcome these conflicting emotions. Thankfully, the university (UCL) offers a range of alternatives that help quicken our integration. My current objective is to enrol in a foreign language program or acquire a new language. To communicate more effectively, I fell the need to hone my speaking skills with the phrases and expressions that native speakers use. In this situation, the previously acquired knowledge won't work.

By the way, I recall a powerful term when I am down: adaptability. As history and storytellers have shown, "the species that survive is not the strongest, nor the cleverest, but the one that is most adaptable to change." I believe this is the first time I have ever written to our ancestors from London in a friendly manner. I hope this will have a significant impact on our feelings and the things around us.

I will keep you informed,

Best wishes and warm regards.

15.11.22 (Tuesday)

Mutluhan