June 19th, 2022
My time in Stratford-Upon-Avon has been nothing short of picturesque. Walking down the streets and alleyways where Shakespeare spent parts of his life has been rewarding in and of itself. The town differs from London dramatically, and while I love London for being the great vibrant city it is, I definitely appreciate the quiet nature that Stratford-Upon-Avon has to offer. Aside from the majority of the town going to sleep at a whopping 6pm, I really have enjoyed exploring the city, its shops, and its ghost adventures.
One of my favorite parts of being in Stratford-Upon-Avon the past few days was exploring Shakespeare’s place of birth. I honestly probably took too many pictures, as the future teacher in me will bore my students by showing them the pictures I took of the home. (I already have a plan in my head to make a powerpoint with these pictures for if and when we go through a Shakespeare unit.) I hope that through these experiences, I will encourage my students to study and explore the life of Shakespeare, along with potential plays of his that we read in the classroom. I believe that learning an author’s background is just as important as studying the work itself, so hopefully I will be able to give them a different and unique perspective about his life having been in Stratford-Upon-Avon myself.
Wrapping up the trip, I am very appreciative of all of the sights I have gotten the chance to see. I have always wanted to study abroad, as I remember being in high school imagining where I would end up studying. With the pandemic, I thought this idea would only stay a dream, but I am so glad that this opportunity was given to me. Living in England for four weeks has been wonderful (aside from not having cheese dip but that is another story).
Reflecting on this trip, I have thought long and hard about what has been the most memorable thing I did, what has made me laugh, what has made me feel most alive. However, with this study abroad experience, there is not a single moment that stands out amongst them all. There are so many memories that will stay with me, all of which I will hold dear and appreciate. From looking at the London skyline at the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral, reaching the top of Primrose Hill, trying Bao from Chinatown, and watching Mamma Mia the musical -of course- there are so many memories I will look back on fondly. Each day of this trip has given me a reason to laugh, to smile, and to appreciate the little things in everyday life. England, it has been a pleasure. Until next time.
-Maggie Martin
Theatre in London U of A 
Thanks for a wonderful trip, Maggie! I know you will be happy to find that cheese dip when you get home! 🙂
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