London to Boston

Arriving in America at Boston Logan International airport was a surreal experience! So much planning: from applying for a Visa; going to study abroad lectures information sessions; to booking flights, led to this moment: finally landing here, in Boston. 

American border control was incredibly strict and so having all my documents with me was very important. I kept everything (passport, DS-2019 etc.) in a folder to keep organised. When asked by the police officer, I provided my DS-2019 and I was officially through into the United States. 

Despite having a good idea of the US through media, being the US for the first time as an adult welcomed an unexpected culture shock. Firstly, I was met with Dunkin’ Donuts which I had only heard about. Also, having to use dollars versus pounds. I wasn’t as tripped out by the American accent, as I had heard it many times on TV, but I compared everything I saw to what it was like back at home. This caused an unexpected pride of being British and an unexpected gratitude to live in London. This is because I compared the transport systems in Boston to the transport system back in London, for example. They looked dated. Nonetheless, I was incredibly happy to be in America and I was surprised how helpful people were. I was carrying two big suitcases and people were gracious enough to help carry them up the stairs and direct me to the right place.

There were many admin tasks to do upon arrival. I had to set up an American bank account, as well as get an American phone number. The exchange programme leaders were incredibly helpful. Many events were set up to access phone providers and bank providers. It was here where I booked an appointment to go and set up an American bank account. Doing this as a group of internationals was incredibly helpful because you could experience the newness with people in the same position. I was incredibly surprised to find how expensive phone contracts were. It was roughly about $40 for about 10 GB! I was very reluctant to pay $40 for 10 GB, but luckily, through talking to other students, I found out about an on another company called Mint, who offer much cheaper deals.
 
From this, I will say, although there are many official avenues to help you on your way, talking to other students is a great way to find cheaper deals. I’ve also learned not to be afraid to ask questions. Everybody here is incredibly helpful. That was another culture shock! In London people can be helpful but are closed-off. Here in America everybody is incredibly open, and I don’t feel afraid to help to ask for help. This might be because I’m in a small town called Amherst, but I’ve been lost some many times on campus, people have immediately pulled out their phone to help me because I don’t even have signal!

Thank you for reading!
Until next time.