The Pointer UW-Stevens Point Student Newspaper
Before I left for London, I thought I was going to be dreadfully lonely. This fear sparked something new in me: independence.
I have always been an introvert, and it is difficult for me to connect with people. I have a few close friends, but I generally do not like spending my evenings at large social gatherings because they drain my energy.
Being in London has awoken an independent side of me I did not know I had.
When I first came to London, I knew I wanted to explore. I did not want to sit in a dorm room twiddling my thumbs, so I made lists of every activity I could jam pack into my days.
I have traveled to cathedrals, gardens, museums and historic houses. I have gone to concerts, lectures and the cinema by myself and enjoyed every moment. I have never been afraid to venture out on my own.
These streets are not menacing or scary. I am not bothered by my lack of company. It gives me time to move at my own pace and not worry if I am dragging down a group. If I want to spend 15 minutes sitting in the spot where John Keats wrote “Ode to a Nightingale,” I can.
I think it is important for introverts and extroverts alike to spend time traveling on their own. It is a wonderful and intimate way to learn about who you are, love and appreciate yourself, and push yourself and grow.
I have learned so much about myself in these few short weeks. I have become the strong, independent person I always knew I could be. I will use this journey as a form of proof that I can do anything.
Carly Keen
Managing Editor
ckeen607@uwsp.edu
