Only YOU can prevent bar fires.

The past few days have been spent in international orientation. Although most of the affiliate students are American, I have met quite a few from other countries - Australia, New Zealand, and Holland to name a few. Regardless of the origin of location though, every single person I've met so far has been an absolute joy to talk to.

Camden hot chocolate.

One of my favorite things about freshman year was meeting new people - as a girl who had lived on a rock for 18 years. to see and meet people who had such different cultures, upbringings, and views of the world was absolutely mind-blowing. In that one year, I felt as though I had grown more than I had in all previous years combined. Now, as I am not only exposed to foreign culture but completely immersed in it, I am excited to grow and learn even more.

At dinner with my international friends :)

Aside from our official enrollment duties, we have been doing a lot of orientating throughout the city. After the first day, the school organized a pub quiz night at one of the school's bars. Though I had little knowledge to contribute to our team, in the spirit of UCL's spiritual founder, Jeremy Bentham we decided to do the utilitarian thing and assemble the largest team in the pub (the greater the knowledge, the greater the benefit, right?). 60 pounds and a great night of bonding later, I'm happy to say it worked!

Holding our cup of winnings (glory) after winning the pub quiz.

After a hectic second day of registration, we made the trek back to Camden for a string of impulse buys (Gym Class Heroes at Koko for 14 pounds!), delicious Indian Fare, and our first pub crawl (more of a pub step, as we managed to make it to only two pubs).

Lamb Thali with garlic naan.

Bar fires. They can be a problem sometimes.

This morning, we explored the Camden Market. A string of marketplaces located along Camden High Street, the Camden Market is one of the most extraordinary flea markets I have ever seen. The atmosphere is beautiful - the roads are paved with cobblestones and in the air lingers the smells of various types of freshly-cooked street fare. Walls are lined in an array of goods that range from tiny trinkets to rave gear to furniture. I will definitely be making multiple return trips.

Cheers!
Olivia

One of many marketplaces that makes up the Camden Market.

The canal that centerpieces the markets.

Part of one of the markets that had been converted from a horse stable.

Adorable hand-made wine bottle holders.

Some of the many tin posters for sale.