Carina Helbl, London/GB, Summer 2022

Since Brexit, it got more difficult to live, study or work in the UK. Not only the expenses of living in the popular city London raised enormously, but also fees come up for foreigner to pay which can sum up quickly as the currency differs about 18 %. But how was my experience in three months of living in London and how was it possible for me to get an internship even though Brexit was real?
First of all, in my case I got an internship quickly. I was flattered when I heard that my dream to go to London came true! My journey already began in the end of June, and I got introduced to my workplace at Urban Food Fest which is a trendy street food market. Urban Food Fest offers a variety of lunch for business institutions, big brands like Disney, festivals, and private events.
Within a team of 6-9 employees and interns my work tasks were mostly in administration. On the weekends, occasionally during the week I helped on the street food markets. There the main task was to build up the tent for the bar and children’s toys plus selling and serving drinks. In addition, on one sight I had the position as event manager where I had lots of responsibilities. This was my favourite part of the internship because every time there was a new challenge, and I definitely learnt the most from it.
Besides work I got to experience the British culture through new friendships, my host and basically by exploring the sights of London. Most of the time I was likely to be found in museums, on sight seeing tours or in a theatre.

In conclusion, London was the best thing I could have done after graduation. If you have the chance to go abroad, I encourage you to take that step. At the beginning it might be scary but see it through the eyes of curiosity and how much you will benefit from it. Be aware: People abroad aren’t concerned about their safety, are you about yours in Graz?