London Lies.

Word-a-coaster on Oxford St. Each ball contains a fortune.

From pub crawls in Camden to my first fish and chips, so much has happened since my last post. I started classes, which, so far, have all been amazing. Unlike my previous courses, all the ones I am taking here are very specialized, which means I finally get to take classes that truly pertain to my Neuroscience major. My favorites so far are Human Neuroanatomy, which also goes into a subsection of neurodegenerative diseases and is taught by the most adorable old man, and 19th and 20th century Art History, which takes us to various art galleries throughout London to study pieces from each era. Our first era is Romanticism, for which we started at the Tate Britain to view a special exhibition by John Martin on apocalyptic art. Though many pieces were a bit terrifying, all were beautiful; I really like how the concept behind romanticism is about personal reaction to nature rather than literal interpretation.

The Portico at the entrance to UCL.

Making like the Beatles in the four-level M&M store.

One thing I love about the British museums, or I guess London in general compared to LA, is how much more history there is. On every corner there seems to be another piece of history -- a duke's house here, a writer's office there -- it is a wonderful feeling to be surrounded by a city so rich with culture and an important past.

As far as sightseeing goes, this week we explored the Tower of London. This was the royal place of residence up until the Tudor family reign, as well a prison and place of execution (including those of King Henry VIII's wives). It is also home to the crown jewels and the royal armory.We also crossed the Tower Bridge (after taking about a gazillion pictures) and had a quick glimpse of the Monument (for the Great Fire) and the London Bridge, which was sadly not quite as picturesque or ornate as the Tower Bridge.

Tower of London. The statues are tributes to the real lions who used to guard the Tower.

The Tower Green. Home to executions of many, including Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard.

The original Tower of London.

Our Beefeater tour guide.

The Tower grounds.

Though I'm not quite a master yet, I am slowly becoming proficient at navigating myself through the London tube system. New year's resolution to be able to read a map: almost check!

The London Bridge tube station.

Tomorrow I am headed to the London Science museum, which is super exciting because, as a large child, I am fascinated by interactive exhibits and simulated rides.

I also found out recently that Shelley Tucker, the matron of the lovely Tucker family, has finally been released from the hospital and allowed to recover at home. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers for a safe and speedy healing!

Selfridge Co.

Cheers!
Olivia

Sunset on The Strand.

The Tower Bridge along with the Mayor of London's office.

David, Rish, and I in front of the Tower Bridge just before sunset.

The Tower Bridge as it becomes lit.

The London Bridge.

Swans near Buckingham Palace.

Fish and chips at The Red Lion.

Some of the London skyline at dusk.

See more pics in my London album on facebook!

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.