At the start of my experience of studying abroad, my walk to my internship was riddled with anxiety but soon I was able to stop and appreciate its beauty (taken in Blackfriars London). 

Arriving in London was a big step for me, but with supportive flatmates, I gained the confidence to tackle my first internship (taken on my first day in London, in Kensington). 

My journey through London's tube system began rocky but soon became a comforting routine which grounded me through my internship journey (taken on the central London tube). 

Despite early challenges, including mastering the tube system, which first appeared as a maze, I gradually found my footing, transforming what initially seemed like obstacles into opportunities for personal and professional growth.  

While I was initially apprehensive about working in a male-dominated office, my internship team's warmth and inclusivity quickly dispelled my concerns, turning my first day into an inviting and promising start (Taken outside my internship office in Blackfriars London).  

My internship experience defied my initial expectations as my supervisor and colleagues warmly embraced me, inviting me out to coffee and helping me feel as though I belonged on the team (taken at a local coffee shop in Blackfriars London). 

The internship classes provided by the CEA CAPA program played a pivotal role in this process, offering a platform to refine my skills, exchange experiences with fellow classmates, and foster a sense of community amidst the whirlwind of intern life.  

The internship class within the CEA CAPA program offered a blend of practical skill-building, communal support, and expert mentorship which enriched my educational journey and helped me navigate the challenges associated with professional development (Taken at Kensington Palace in London, pictured with friends from my internship class). 

Central to my journey were the mentorship and support of my supervisor and team, whose guidance and encouragement transformed my initial apprehension into confidence and belonging.  

My supervisor was extremely supportive when I became severely ill during my fourth week abroad and with his empathy and understanding, I was able to recover. (Taken while walking to a clinic in Kensington, London). 

From unexpected gestures of appreciation, such as a box of chocolates and a heartfelt card on my last day, to moments of companionship over coffee and shared experiences, each interaction left a positive mark on my internship experience.  

The popular book sellar chain, Waterstones, played an invaluable role in my internship journey as it helped me balance work, study, and leisure by offering a quiet place to study and socialize. (Taken at a Waterstones location in Richmond, London).  

While my internship journey began with uncertainty, it ended with heartfelt farewells (Taken at my flat in West Kensington, London). 

Even in the face of adversity, such as contracting a skin infection, I was met with empathy and understanding. I emerged from my internship as a new person. Though my time in London was brief, the impact of my internship exceeded geographical boundaries, leaving me with cherished memories and a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunities and relationships I had encountered along the way. As I bid farewell to London, I carry with me not only newfound skills and experiences but also a deep appreciation for the journey that shaped me.  

My internship journey in London, characterized by initial uncertainties, transformative growth, and unexpected acts of kindness, left me with cherished memories, invaluable skills, and a profound appreciation for the supportive community that embraced me along the way (Taken on the plane as I left London and flew back to Ohio). 

This post was written by Kyra Johnson, a CEA CAPA Alumni Ambassador from Ohio University and interned in London, England.