Let's go to the Beach

It would be impossible to be here in California without a trip to the beach, so keen to start a new tradition within the first week I headed to Seal Beach. For CSULB students this is just a free bus ride and a short walk, before you're taken away by the outstanding views and stunning beach.

After a hectic start getting settled in to the new University, it was nice to have a relaxing afternoon lying in the sun. Although it was cold at first I even braved the sea! I will definitely be returning again soon, and checking out the other beaches in the area.

Supersize and Super Sales

It feels like all I've done since we arrived is eat! If you have me on Foursquare you can definitely second this statement.

One the places that everyone said I had to try was In-N-Out Burgers, so on our way for a night out on Second Street we stopped by. Frankly, I was disappointed. I can't see what all the fuss was about, I've had much better burgers before, and the soggy chips (sorry fries!) are well worth avoiding. Even the Secret Menu is not as exciting as it sounds!

Powell's Sweet Shop lifted our spirits, kids in a candy store you can sit and watch Charlie and the Chocolate Factory while admiring the array of treats on display. Gathering round to watch each other trying the bugs attracted some strange looks from passers-by on Second Street. British tourists are certainly entertaining!

Powell's Sweet Shoppe

We've mastered the art of ordering less meals to accommodate for supersize portions, but even so we can understand why everyone in California gets To-Go boxes for their leftovers. Whether its an Ihop breakfast or dinner in Hoffs Hut, there is enough food left to feed a third world country. Interestingly, everyone we see is in really good shape - What's their secret?

Our favourite meal out so far has to be Hooters in Downtown Long Beach. There's a great atmosphere; music, sports and yes of course the waitresses, and the burgers and chicken wings are the best. We were even given a free appetizer, some delicious Tator Tots. Although in true American fashion they could have been your main meal. Definitely a place to try for a fun night out.

The rest of my time seems to have been filled with shopping, lots of trips to Target to furnish the Dorms and to the Beach Store for CSULB branded merchandise. Catching the bus to Los Cerritos Centre Mall is easy and free for students, with great shopping and places to eat. The prices are amazing and I can see suitcases filled with presents to take home at Christmas.

Beach Pride 

Moving and Settling In

Now I'm all moved into my new room and starting to explore the area. So far this has mainly consisted of trips to Target for all the things that wouldn't fit in my case when I was packing! There's also been a lot of food involved, it's true that American portions are about 3x the size of British ones, but we've been walking it off (mainly when we're lost!). Here are some snaps from my first couple of days, expect many more to come!

The Campus

My new home - Hillside College A

Unpacking in my new room

Because I've never seen someone so excited about a squirrel

IHop breakfast - YUM

Beachside College pool

Cheap taxis even if we never know our address

Lucky Charms for breakfast

Day 1

Goodbye England, Hello America

As expected, the first day of my journey mainly consisted of travelling. An early start, followed by a 10 and a half hour flight, is no easy feat. Last minute goodbye messages to those you love, and farewell wishes, are sure to get your emotions rising, with a conflict of nerves and excitement tipping in and out of balance.

Stepping off the plane at LAX, I can only describe a sense of surrealism. It still didn't sink in that I was actually here, that I was actually doing this. This feeling remained with me on the journey to the Campus, even moving into my new room. I can't quite believe that this is actually my new home!

My plans for the first few days are to explore the area and get settled in. It's a bit daunting, especially since international students have moved in a week early, so this massive campus is practically deserted. I can't wait for my room mate and everyone else to move in!

This is going to be a whole new lifestyle full of changes, but I'm feeling excited and looking forward to what the future has in store!

Treasure Every Moment

Before I came to University I knew that I wanted to travel, offering the study abroad programme was a stipulation for my applications. As a media and journalism enthusiast, something in my heart has always told me that America is the place to be.

Getting to this stage wasn't easy, I worked hard, and I've lost count of everything I've been involved in to try and make me stand out from the crowd. My determination has paid off, and I believe I deserve my place for this year. 

Deciding to study abroad is not something that should be taken lightly. Even with the years I've had to prepare, the surrealism of such a journey can come as a shock. I would only advise making the choice if it is something you are truly passionate about and have the dedication to pursue. 

My goal for this year is to treasure every moment, embrace every opportunity, and remember each and every incredible feeling. This is my story, documenting this once in a lifetime opportunity. I hope to be able to look back and see what I have achieved and the memories I have made. Hopefully I can offer some good advise for future traveller along the way too! 

Wish me luck!