Week Three

This was one of those weeks that really made me think. It was the second week of classes so I was intellectually stimulated and forced to think critically but I also participated in a march that inspired me to my core. In my classes I learned more about the composition of the universe, the scientific advancement of lasers, 17th century paintings, and how British parliament was shaped by both the monarchy and the struggles between religions. A very diverse group of topics to say the least. On Thursday, my 17th- and 18th- century Art in London course visited the Tate Britain museum. I decided to leave my room early so that I would be able to walk the hour and fifteen minutes to get there; I am happy I did. On my way, my path went right past Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster (the meeting place of parliament), and Westminster Abbey. Lucky for me, I walked right past Westminster Abbey at the top of the hour so I was gifted with the amazing sound of the bells chiming. The clanging truly lifts the spirits and brings a smile to everyone’s face. I recommend everyone visit this historical place of worship when the hour changes so they too will get to hear the hauntingly beautiful songs bounce off the surrounding buildings. Did you know that it was built 1057 years ago? A sight to behold. I am planning on visiting it again when I have more time so that I can take pictures and see the inside. Just across the street was Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster. The ornate architecture is even more stunning in person than in pictures. Though I did imagine Big Ben would be taller. No matter the size, it’s stature is ultimately impressive. I hope that I will get the chance to walk the halls of the Palace of Westminster to gain perspective on my History of Parliament course and to walk where so many important people have walked before me. Once I finally made it to Tate Britain, my class went into two of the many galleries to look at a small selection of the British artwork. The portraits and allegorical paintings we observed were so intricately detailed. It amazes me every time I see a piece like these up close and in person. There really is no better way to view a painting than in person. Make the trip to any museum and you will see what I mean. I realized that I am capable of spending hours walking these galleries and that a two hour class is not enough time. Learning how to look at a painting in a deeper way than what is simply painted on the surface is more useful than I previously thought. It makes walking through galleries and museums a much more enjoyable experience. After class I had a long walk back but didn’t mind since I had time to kill before I had to be at an event. I decided this week to join the UCL Writer’s Society. They had an open mic night at a campus cafe on Thursday and I was excited to go. Immediately I met some very sweet and welcoming members who seemed genuinely interested in getting to know me. I did not bring anything to read out loud so I was able to sit back and enjoy the inspiring and talented people and their equally inspiring pieces of poetry, prose, and short stories. I have decided that I am going to write more this semester and perhaps I will be brave enough sometime to read mine aloud.

Although the rest of this week has been great, Saturday takes the cake as the best. I participated in the Women’s March on Washington: London with one of my good friends. We both felt strongly about this march and the many reasons behind it. For me, this march was something mandatory; something that I needed to do and something I needed to say. This Saturday, I let my actions speak for me. This personally was not just a march against President Trump; this was a march for women’s rights, LGBT rights, planned parenthood, climate change, education, disabled people, and people of color (to name a few), all of which are incredibly important to me. I was touched and inspired tremendously by the huge turnout and the overwhelming amount of peace, love, support, and strength that flowed through the crowd. It was amazing to come back home to see the reports and pictures of the millions of women across the globe marching for the same cause on the same day. I am a part of something bigger and more important than the superficiality of everyday life. I am determined to help make a change and will continue fighting for the rights of every global citizen.

This has been a powerful week. Until next time.

Ta ta.

~Kaitlin