Millennial on the Move: Farewell London!

All good things must come to an end, right?

I fully believe this to be true, and with my semester abroad in the UK coming to an end, I must say that living in London has changed my life and perspective in the best way. 

I've learned to take clothes that I wear all the time and rearrange them into something completely different.  When packing to live in another country for months at a time, you can't take everything with you.  Living abroad has taught me how to do more with less, without sacrificing style. 

As part of a scholarship I received, I will be presenting a research project on the importance of minorities and other underrepresented students participating in study abroad programs.  As a man who holds many different identities, the most salient are my race and sexual orientation.  Being a person of color as well as a member of the LGBT community is seen as limiting in the eyes of many people.  Those with closed minds don't understand the power that I hold by just simply choosing to be myself.  This internal power has been made stronger than ever by traveling around the world, and meeting people with all different mindsets and perspectives. 

Part of my power is shown by the way I choose to dress.  While abroad my unique style served as a way for me to introduce myself without having to say one word.  Here I am wearing a classic pair of white sneakers by Express, a grey suit by Express, and a thrifted hat, blazer, and cardigan.  My shirt is by Nautica, and my frames and tie are both by H&M.

Just under a year ago I was struggling in ways I wouldn't wish on anyone.  And if you would have told me that in 2018 I would be traveling to four different countries in four months, I wouldn't have believed you.  Since returning home, I now realize everything that the world has to offer.  More importantly I realize that I have the potential to take advantage of all of the worlds offerings, and so do you!  

I am beyond excited to be returning home and applying all that I have learned, and I am also beyond excited to see where my education takes me next!  Shout out to London, UK for allowing me to live the best four months of my life in one of the most diverse cities in the world.  I will be showcasing my research project on my blog, and thank you all for your continued support!!

-T.C.