MISTI Blogs

Hi! I’m Katia, and I recently wrapped up an 8-week summer program in London, UK. Today, I want to reflect on the connections I made in London and how they relate to different aspects of my identity.

The last time I checked in, I was halfway through my summer working at London South Bank University (LSBU), finally settling into the rhythm of daily life. I was developing new relationships with my coworkers, seeing how I could contribute to our project, and making time for new cultural experiences. I had been to London Pride and enjoyed some incredible concerts and shows. It was a fantastic start, but I had no idea how special the next few weeks would become due to the deep connections I would make.

Some of the most meaningful connections I formed in London are actually with my uncle’s friends! He lived in London for about 10 years while attending the City & Guilds of London Art School and made lifelong friends there. I’m grateful that these friends have also become mine. Through them, I learned more about my uncle and his late husband, and we grew so close through the many stories they shared.

Even after my uncle left London, I kept spending time with his friends, amazed that they had once been strangers to me. We bonded over our different cultural backgrounds, sharing countless conversations about our experiences growing up. When I mentioned that my partner would be visiting, I wasn’t sure how they’d react. But without hesitation, they wanted to meet her and welcomed us with open arms. Amidst the uncertainty of being far from home, they became like family, showing us the love and respect that define London’s diverse community.

During my partner’s three-week visit, we spent many evenings with our new friends, gaining their local perspectives on London. They offered us endless recommendations for food, museums, galleries, nature spots, and more. Thanks to them, we discovered the joy of scones with clotted cream and jam from Fortnum & Mason—a newfound favorite. Their advice helped us make the most of our trip, and I’m grateful that their friendship will always be a part of our lives.

Another friendship that profoundly impacted my time in London was with my PhD mentor, Austin. I spent nearly all my time with him during my eight weeks at London South Bank University (LSBU). During this time, Austin and I discovered that despite growing up in very different environments, we had a lot in common! We both have strong ties to classical music and dance, passion for competitive sports and fitness, and a half-white, half-Asian heritage. While these similarities may seem trivial, each of these are very significant components of my cumulative identity and sense of self.

Austin’s familiarity with such fundamental parts of my life provided a very comforting presence to me as I entered an unfamiliar environment. We quickly bypassed small talk and built a friendship rooted in camaraderie, shared experiences, and trust. This trust made it easy for me to seek his advice, ask questions, and rely on him not just as a mentor, but as a friend during my time in a new place.

Reflecting on these connections, I realize how much these people shaped my experience in London and strengthened my sense of identity during my summer abroad.

This personal connection not only enriched my experience but also greatly benefited our project. We developed a trusting work dynamic, understanding each other’s thought processes as the classical artists in us balanced perfectionism with creativity. This allowed me to contribute to Austin’s PhD project in unexpected and fulfilling ways.

Reflecting on these connections, I realize how much these people shaped my experience in London and strengthened my sense of identity during my summer abroad. These relationships made my time in London incredibly meaningful and unforgettable. I will always cherish these relationships I’ve made and the way they have given London a special place in my heart.