New York

a row of EC students on the plane back to New York 1 (sorry it's blurry)
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Thursday May 31st, after our adventures with a surly bus driver, we took a plane back to New York from London Heathrow Airport. Many of us were sad to leave London, but most of us were relieved to be home again. Our flight went well, and we all landed safe and sound back in the United States. The past three weeks have been the experience of a lifetime, one that we will never forget. I thank everyone involved, especially the Professors and the students, for making this trip such an amazing one. Cheerio!

Our professors

Prof. Parkhouse (L) and Prof. Wolfe (R)
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

I would like to thank Prof. Parkhouse (L) and Prof. Wolfe(R) for planning an executing such an amazing trip. I have made so many friends and have had an amazing time with everyone. I believe the class would agree that this trip was amazing and we would all choose to do it again. Thanks for the amazing memories!

Our last night

The class at our final night after the show 2
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On our last night in London, Wednesday May 30th, our professors took us out to an awesome italian restaurant where we all had amazing food. After dinner we went to a show in Piccadilly Circus called "The 39 Steps" - a British Comedy about a man forced into being a hero of sorts. What was most interesting about the show is that it was put on by only four actors. Two of them, credited as 'clowns' played many different roles, at points they even played two different characters in one scene! It was an awesome show and incredibly funny. We all had an amazing night.

Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral 1
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After visiting Dover we headed back on the train for a short trip to Canterbury. When we got to Canterbury we had a delicious lunch after which we visited Canterbury Cathedral. The Archibishop of Canterbury is the head of the Church of England. In fact, the Archbishop of Canterbury is the person who crowns the King or Queen of England. It's a beautiful Cathedral that is undergoing a few renovations and repairs. We really enjoyed our visit to Canterbury Cathedral.

The white cliffs of Dover

The white cliffs of Dover
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Tuesday the 29th of May the class took a train to Dover. Dover faces the strait of Dover and France. In fact, on a clear day it is possible to see the shores of France. What Dover is most famous for is it's White Cliffs. These cliffs are made of chalk, or pure white lime. The white against the blue creates a striking profile against the ocean. In Dover we all had Dover Rock, a type of candy whose taste resembles a candy cane. It is well known because it's name, Dover Rock, is printed on the candy and at any point when you bite it you can read its name.

We all enjoyed sitting on the rocky beach and watching the ocean. Some of us even took off our shoes and dipped our feet in the ocean. It was a great time.

The Imperial War Museum, London

The Imperial War Museum, London
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Monday May 28th the class went to the Imperial War Museum in London. The students took a walk through a bombed out London street for The Blitz Experience. The also saw the conditions endured by British soldiers in The Trench Experience. in the Trench Experience they experienced the front lines as "Tommies." The class really enjoyed this museum, and were amazed by what they were able to experience in it. Some students plan on returning later to go through the museum more slowly and to better experience everything.

After the War Museum students were off to do their own thing again. One popular event was to see a show, like Wicked or Equus. Some stayed in for the night, and others explored London some more.

Weekend 3, May 26 and 27th

For the final weekend, everyone was left to their own devices. Some went out to museums or theatre shows like Othello. A few of us stayed in for various reasons. A couple went to the Odeon theatre to see a movie. One of the students met up with a good friend for dinner. Overall, our final weekend was used to fit in the last few things we wanted to see and experience in London. The reality of how fast our trip has gone and how soon we are due home has begun to hit many of us, and we are making the most of our last few days here.

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Friday May 25th, the class took a trip to Hampton Court Palace, which is known for its beautiful gardens and it's Hedge Maze. The Maze, thought to be planted between 1689 and 1695 it covers a third of an acre and contains half a mile of paths. The Palace has had a long and varied history involving Thomas Wosley -once the Archbiship of York- The Tudors, Henry VIII, William and Mary, and Queen Victoria. This history had led to the belief that there are Ghosts haunting the Palace, and there have even been some citings of paranormal activity.

Wedgwood

The Wedgewood Sign
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Thursday May 24th the class took a train and a taxi ride to the Wedgwood factories. We got to go into the factory and see the history of Wedgwood in their museum, but the best part was being able to make our own little pieces of Wedgwood. In a back room, visitors had the options of painting plates, throwing pottery, and dipping ceramic flowers (among other things), and Wedgwood ships it right back to the United States for us. After our activities, we ate at the Wedgwood restaurant, visited the gift shops, then headed back to London with another taxi and train ride.

The London Eye

The London Eye
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After the Globe Theatre we had a lovely lunch then headed to the London Eye. The London Eye is located on the bank of the River Thames and it is the tallest observation wheel in the world at 135 meters tall. In its short lifespan (it opened in the new millenium) it has become as iconic a landmark as Big Ben and the Tower of London. In fact, it has become the most popular paid for UK visitor attraction, partly because it provides breathtaking views up to 40 kilometres in all directions on a clear day, while providing the rider comfort and safety.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Once across the Millennium Bridge, we came to the Globe Theatre. The Globe Theatre is famous for being the home of Shakespeare's plays. This building is not the original Globe, but is built to the specifications and size of the original, based on excavations of the original theatre. Interestingly, an american was the one who decided to raise the money and rebuild this important piece of history.

The Millennium Bridge

The Millennium Bridge
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Wednesday May 23, after visiting St. Paul's Cathedral, we walked to our next destination - which was on the other side of the Thames - vis the Millennium Bridge. The Millennium Bridge was opened for the Millenium, and is a beautiful piece of architecture.

Wednesday May 23

St. Paul's Cathedral
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Our first stop of the day on Wednesday the 23rd of May was St. Paul's Cathedral. A Cathedral dedicated to St Paul has overlooked the City of London since 604AD. The current Cathedral is the fourth to occupy this site. Sir Christopher Wren designed and built this cathedral between 1675 and 1710 - its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London.

A few of St. Paul's mportant services include the funerals of Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill; Jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria; peace services marking the end of the First and Second World Wars; the launch of the Festival of Britain; the Service of Remembrance and Commemoration for the 11th September 2001: the 80th and 100th birthdays of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother; the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, to Lady Diana Spencer and, most recently, the thanksgiving services for both the Golden Jubilee and 80th Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.

It was awe inspiring, especially since many students climbed to the Whispering, Stone, and Golden Galleries: the latter two which are located around the outside of the builing and provide a gorgeous view of London.

Sick Webmaster

Hey Everyone!

Sorry the blog has not been updated the past few days... I have caught the flu and have not been up to doing much because of it. I am hoping that by Sunday the blog will be fully updated! Thanks for your patience and understanding! Keep checking it and enjoying the pictures :)

Platform 9 3/4

Platform 9 3/4 at King's Cross rail station in London!!
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

The infamous Platfrom 9 3/4 at King's Cross rail station in London. Harry Potter has to walk through this wall in order to reach the train to Hogwarts. You can't tell in this picture, but the cart is partially 'through' the wall :)


*In case everyone didn't know, you are allowed to post responses to pictures and blog entries on the blog! We love to hear from everyone and see what you think of our trip! I hope you have enjoyed the blog so far, there's more to come :)

The rail station at York

The rail station at York
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After York Castle Museum, we headed back to the York Rail Station for our two hour ride home. Unfortunately, due to difficulties on the track our ride was extended about 45 minutes. We all made it back to Kings Cross Station in London then went our seperate directions for the rest of the night, many of us heading over to Platform 9 3/4 (the platform used to get to the Hogwarts Train in the Harry Potter series) to get a quick photo op.

The rest of the night has been spent relaxing, working on projects, and enjoying London with friends.

The York Castle Museum

The outside of York Castle Museum... it was awesome
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After our delicious lunch of Yorkshie Pudding, we headed for the York Castle Museum. It is filled with many displays of how things were at different time periods. From clothes to rooms, they had life sized replicas of different places. We could even walk through a couple city streets lined with the stores of specific time periods. It was an amazing experience that many of us wished we had more tiem to enjoy. It was by far one of the best museums I have personally been to.

Yorkshire Pudding

(L to R) Bryce, Chandler, Lindsey, Drew, Heather, and Kayleigh waiting for their lunches of Yorkshire Pudding
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

For lunch, being as we were in York, we all had a taste of the infamous Yorkshire Pudding. Yorkshire Pudding is not, in fact, a pudding of any sort. It is a dish made from batter and served, generally, with roast beef and gravy. It was served with potatoes and vegetables. Anyone who visits York should try this delicious meal.

York Minster

the front of York Minster
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

York Minster is the largest Gothic Cathedral in northern Europe. Originally a wooden building thrown together in order to baptise Edwin, King of Northumbria, it was built larger and grander into the Minster Church dedicated to St. Peter. In 1075 it was destroyed by the Danes. The current Minster was then begun and was finished in 1472. It is filled with beautiful architecture and stained glass windows. It has a large imposing figure when standing outside, but the inside glows white from the stones used to build the Minster.

Seated at the Minster is the Archbishop of York, the second highest seat in the Church of England (next to the Archbishop of Canterbury).

The City of York

York Minster (the building in the backround) and seen through York
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

We began Tuesday with a two hour train ride to York, with a visit to York Minster, a sightseeing tour, a lunch of Yorkshire pudding, and a visit to the York Castle Museum on the dockett. York has had a long and interesting history, beginning with the Roman conquering of the area and spanning to its modern day booming tourist industry. One of the main attractions that we saw when on the tour was the York Wall, built in order to protect York from invasions. York is littered with the remains of ancient architecture - ranging from rubble to monuments like York Minster and Clifford's Tower. It is a beautiful, friendly town - where the pairings of old and new aren't out of place and where there is more to visit than our time allowed.

Changing of the Guards

The Royal Marching Band 2
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

While at Windsor Castle we were able to see a smaller scale of the Changing of the Guards. The Royal marching band led the way, followed by the soldiers. After much ceremony, the band lightened the mood by playing an arrangement of 'We are the Champions' by the group Queen. The Changing of the Guards then continued with more traditional music.

After the ceremony we met up with Prof. Wolfe and had lunch at a lovely little pub. Then, we were free for the rest of the afternoon. Some went and walked to Eton College - Britain's most famous "public" school. (In England, "public" schools are what we consider Private schools.) After visiting Eton, or whatever activity they chose, the students headed back to the dorms for the night.

Windsor Castle

The Queen's Garden
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Today, the 21st of May, the class took a trip to Windsor to visit Windsor Castle. It is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Britain. Originally made of wood, the castle was built by William the Conqueror in 1080 to guard the western approaches to London. King Georgr V took his surname from the Castle, showing his deep affection for it. Windsor Castle is an official residence of the Queen and her family who stay there often. In fact, she was residing in the castle when we visited!

We were able to wander through the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and we were able to see Queen Mary's Dollhouse, a masterpiece designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and given to Queen Mary in 1924. At Windsor we were also able to witness a smaller scale, bu just as impressive, version of the Changing of the Guards.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Another view of Edinburgh from the Castle Walls
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Friday, after our visits to Abbey Road and Portobello Road, eight students and Prof. Wolfe took a train to Scotland for the weekend. It was an adventure, the train broke down and all nine of us shared a room at the Hostel on the Royal Mile, but it was an amazing experience for everyone. We visited Edinburgh Castle and took a tour bus aroudn the city of Edinburgh. We then shopped and enjoyed a few lovely meals together. Before heading back to London on Sunday afternoon, we ran into Dr. Marchesani's class who are also in Scotland (but they're heading home on Thursday the 24th). We arrived back on the campus at Regent's around 7 pm and unpacked and relaxed for the rest of the night.

Six of the seven students who did not go on the Scotland trip remained in London and continued to explore the city and just enjoy their time together. One student went to Portugal for the weekend in order to visit her family.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed their various weekends and are excited to continue seeing the sights and enjoying London.

Abbey Road

(L to R) Prof. Parkhouse, Chandler, Bryce, and Drew doing the Beatles' walk across Abbey Road (close up)
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Friday morning our first stop of the day was to Abbey Road. Members of the class wanted to attempt to recreate the famous Beatles album cover that was taken on Abbey Road. Prof. Parkhouse, Chandler, Bryce, and Drew were successful in their attempt! A few of the ladies in the class - Abby, Kayleigh, Leslie, and Jeri- also attempted to get a picture of the walk.

After Abbey Road we visited Portobello Road to check out the stores. At this time, the group that decided to go to Scotland for the weekend left to catch their train.

The University of Oxford

Tom Tower, built by Christopher Wren it houses the bell 'Great Tom'
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Today, the 17th of May, we took a train ride to Oxford, the home of the University of Oxford. The University of Oxford is actually made up of around 30 different colleges and universities. Students have allegiance towards their individual colleges, not to the more general Oxford University. Today, our main focus at the University was Christ Church, the college Professor Parkhouse attended as an undergrad. He showed us aroudn his old stomping grounds and told us stories of when he was there. We learned about Great Tom, the bell housed in Christopher Wren's Tom Tower, that rings 101 times (once for each original scholar) at 9:05 pm to signal curfew. We also learned about Alice in Wonderland and how it's author, Charles Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll) was an undergraduate and then a maths don at Christ Church, his time there spanning 47 years. Finally, we ate lunch in the Christ Church Dining Hall, where the dining scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed!

After visiting the University of Oxford we were able to head about town and shop for a bit, after which we hopped a train and headed back to London and Regent's College to spend the night as we chose.

Wednesday the 16th

everyone napping on the boat ride down the Thames after a busy day
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After our full day of Monumental stair climbing, boat rides, and exploring the Royal Naval College and Greenwich Observatory, everyone was tired. On the boat ride back up the River Thames many of the students fell asleep to the boat's lulling and snuck in a quick nap. After the trip everyone was once again allowed to go their separate ways for shopping, dinner, and the like.

Greenwich Observatory and the Prime Meridian

The class standing in 2 hemispheres (over the Prime Meridian)
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

The boat ride down the River Thames took us to Greenwich. When there we visited the Royal Naval Academy. The two high points of our visit were the Chapel and the Painted Hall. However, our main purpose for our visit to Greenwich was to go to the Greenwich Observatory, the location of the Prime Meridian and the National Maritime Museum. The Prime Meridian is where the East and West Hemispheres meet at 0 degrees longitude. Greenwich is also the timekeeping center of the world.

River Thames Boatride

Tower Bridge lifted
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After climbing the 311 steps of the Wren Monument, we took a leisurely boat tour down the River Thames towards Greenwich.. On the way, we were lucky enough to be able to watch the Tower Bridge rise and lower for the passing boats. We also had funny commentary by one of the mates of the ship and avoid the famous England rain until the very end of the ride.

The Monument

Chrisptoper Wren's 'Monument' to commemorate the Great Fire of London of 1666
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Wednesday the 16th the class began the day by climbing all 311 steps of Christopher Wren's 'Monument.' He built it to commemorate the Great Fire of London of 1666, which decimated aroudn 80 percent of London. The height of the statue, 205 feet, is the exact distance west to Pudding Lane, where the fire started in a small bakery. At the top there is a caged in area where people who climb the monument can get an amazing view of London in every direction. Everyone in the class climbed the 311 steps with ease and received a certificate celebrating their accomplishment.

The Roman Baths

Lengthwise pic of the Baths
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

The Roman Baths are one of Britain's greatest memorials to the Roman era. The photo pictured is of the main bath, known as The Great Bath. During the Roman times these Baths were used for bathing but also for curing illness. This is because the water of the Baths was believed to have curative properties. Due to the extensive excavations of the Baths, visitors are now able to see the skill of Roman engineering.

The students enjoyed going to Bath, especially the tour on the bus. After visiting the Roman Baths students were free to spend the rest of the day as they chose, some heading right back to the dorms, while others spent a little more time in Bath shopping or exploring the city.

The city of Bath

The city of Bath
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Today we visited the City of Bath. After a 10-15 mintue tube ride, we took the train from Paddington Station to Bath Spa station, an hour and a half ride. Once we got there we were amazed at how beautiful the city is, especially since the weather held out and didn't rain. We took a tour on a red double decker bus (we got to sit on top in the open!) through Bath. After the tour we met up for a delicious lunch consisting of England's traditional Fish and Chips. When we all finished lunch we headed back to visit the Roman Baths.

Parliament and Big Ben

Another view of Big Ben
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Our final stop of the day was to Parliament. There are two branches of Parliament: the House of Lords and the House of Commons. Not only did we pass by Big Ben and the magnificent Parliment building, but were also allowed inside. After a brief wait in the rain, we were able to go in and see a portion of the House of Commons Parliamentary meeting be held. Once we had finished this expedition, around 3:30 PM, everyone was allowed to go off on their own and explore London, go shopping, or even head back to Regent's College and their room for a nap.

Westminster Abbey!

Westminster Abbey!
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After lunch we proceeded to Westminster Abbey: House of God ~ House of Kings. Originally founded in 960 AD as a Benedictine Monastary, its focus currently resides on worship and welcoming visitors. The beautiful vaulted ceilings and the craftsmanship of the carved tombs was only part of the experience. We were able to see the tombs of Elizabeth I and Mary I, Mary, Queen of Scots, Henry VII among others, and we visited the Henry VII Chapel, the Coronation Chair, the Poets Corner, and the Grave of the Unknown Warrior - just to name the highlights.

Pictures were not allowed inside the abbey, but I have included a link to the right if you are interested in seeing or learning more about Westminster Abbey!

Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms

Sign for the Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Monday the 14th our class time festivities began again. Today, we first visited the Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms. It was a fantastic display of not only Churchill's life and times, but of the preserved war rooms, council's, and supplies used during his time as Prime Minister during World War II.

When we finished with the museum we had lunch at a cafe across the street where we were each served a sandwich called the 'Churchill' : Chicken, cheese, bacon, lettuce, and tomato on grilled bread.... delicious :)

May 12th and 13th: Weekend One

On our first weekend to ourselves many went to the Tower of London together saturday morning. However, once we finished with the tour, we all had different plans. Some went to see a show, like 'Stomp', in the West End. Others braved the elements to see a Shakespearean play at the Globe Theatre. A few students went to Tower Bridge, and others went to one of London's many free museums. Most had dinner on the town and became proficient in using the tube - including finding out it's closing time. Overall, it was a great first weekend of exploration and fun :)

The Tower of London

The Tower of London
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Saturday May 12 Prof. Wolfe took a group of us to the Tower of London. The Tower has served as a castle in wartime, the King's residence in peace time, a prison, and an execution site. We were able to observe the crown jewels, the executioners block, many of the towers within the Tower of London -including the White Tower, Beauchamp Tower, the Queen's House, the Bloody Tower, and the Chapel of St. John,- the weaponry and arms throughout England's history, and we were able to see the Yeoman Warders, known as 'Beefeaters', who guard and live in the Tower.

Euston Station

Jeri and Nancy checking out a map of London
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After our exciting visits to the Horse Guards Parade and Leicester Square we headed to Euston Station to get our rail passes validated before we needed them next week. Once our rail passes were validated we were free to enjoy dinner and our weekends.


Pic: Jeri (L) and Nancy (R) check out a map of London while waiting around at Euston Station.

Horse Guards Parade

The class at the Horse Guards Parade
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

The Horse Guards Parade is the site of the 'Trooping the Colour', an impressive annual ceremony to celebrate the Queen's official birthday. The Queen is the Colonel-in-Chief of all seven regiments of the household division.

After passing through the Horse Guards Parade, we continued on our path and looked down The Mall, the road that leads to Buckingham Palace. We then headed towards Leicester Square to see where to buy theatre and travel tickets.

The Horse Guards

The Horse Guard
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After visiting Downing Street, we turned back and visited the Horse Guards. The Horse Guards are soldiers of the Queen's Household Division. There are two regiments of the Household Cavalry: The Scarlet Tunics belong to the 'Life Guards' and the Blue tunics belong to the 'Blues and Royals.' Both regiments are represented. As we walked by the Horse Guards, we went under the Horse Guards Arch. This arch is considered to official entrance to the royal palaces (decreed by Queen Victoria). Just on the other side of the arch is a large parade ground called the Horse Guards Parade.

Downing Street, where the Prime Minister lives

Downing Street, where the Prime Mnister lives
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After seeing Trafalgar Square, we walked south to Whitehall in order to visit 10 Downing Street, where the current Prime Minister lives. Unlike most of the government buildings on Whitehall, Downing Street is smaller in scale. Downing Street is named after Sir George Downing, a 17th century developer and real estate mogul.

We stopped at 10 Downing Street in hopes of seeing Tony Blair, who is soon to move out of the building which is seen about 300 feet down the locked street.

Across Whitehall from Downing Street is the Ministry of Defense (MOD), the British Pentagon.

Trafalgar Square Cont'd

As I mentioned before, Trafalgar Square is considered the Heart of London not only because it marks the center of London, and marks a major historical landmark, but because in every direction it is surrounded by the Living city of London. To the North is Leicester Square and the West End, famous for being the entertainment and theatre district of London. To the East is London's financial center while to the West is The Mall, the royal road that leads to Buckingham Palace. Finally, to the South is Whitehall, the nation's street of government offices and homes.

Trafalgar Square

The fountain at Trafalgar Square.
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Trafalgar Square is considered the "Heart of London." At Trafalgar Square we noticed it's many statues and fountains including: the bronze lions, the National Gallery, the Church of St. Martin -in-the-Fieldd, the statue of James II - who restored Catholiciam to England and was later forced into exile in France, and, Trafalgar's most famous monument Nelson's Columne. It is dedicated to Lord Nelson for his victory over a French and Spanish fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. He stands 17 feet high, on top of a 185 foot tall fluted granite column surrounded by the bronze lions. Pigeons are also seen in flocks around Nelson's column and throughout Trafalgar Square.

Friday the 11th of May, 2007

On friday everone had breakfast at the "Refectory," or cafeteria, of Regent's College. The, from 10:30 AM until 12 noon we heard a lecture about the history of King's in England and we learned about some of the major sites to visit in London from Sue Gil. We then went back to the refectory for lunch and it was once again off to the Tube. We travelled the Bakerloo line to Trafalgar Square, our first stop of the day.

The group at Piccadilly Circus

The group at Piccadilly Circus.
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

After our orientation we went on the Jubilee and Bakerloo Lines to sightsee, bringing us to Piccadilly Circus. Piccadilly Circus is similar to New York Citie's Time Square with it's neon advertising and other attractions. It is the entrance to London's entertainment district. The leading sporting goods store, Lillywhites, is located in Piccadilly Circus. Piccadilly Circus contains the Eros Statue, erected as a memorial to the Earl of Shaftsbury, which is a familiar London landmark.

This trip ended our first day in London, and after Piccadilly Circus we headed back to the dorm for dinner and our evening plans.

Arrival at Heathrow in London

Arrival at Heathrow in London
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Thursday May 10th we arrived at Heathrow airport in London. We then took a charter bus to Regent's College from the airport. Once at the College we discovered our rooms were on the 3rd floor (and here floors begin with Ground then work their way up with numbers, so it was really the 4th floor) and we struggled to drag our luggage up the stairs since there is no elevator (or "lift" as they call them). After unpacking, showering, and relaxing after the flight, we had a quick orientation, led by Fred, at 3 PM. After our Regents College Orientation, we headed for the subway, otherwise known as the Underground or the "tube", for our "Mind the Gap" tube orientation.

More Pictures!

Hello everyone! There are many more pictures to see of our adventures in London. By clicking the Flickr link to the right of these posts, you can visit the other photos not posted on the blog. Thanks for visiting and I hope you enjoy it!

(L to R) Aimee, Drew, Kayleigh, Capri, Heather, and Kaitlin at JFK

(L to R) Aimee, Drew, Kayleigh, Capri, Heather, and Kaitlin at JFK
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

On Wednesday May 9th, the entire class met at JFK airport for our flight to Heathrow airport in London. After a few hours of waiting at the terminal our flight finally left around 8:30 PM. After delays on the runway at JFK and in the air above Heathrow, we arrived in London around 9:30 AM London time (or 4:30 AM New York time) on Thursday May 10th.

Classtime at EC!

Class 1
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

For the first two weeks of Term III, we had our more formal class time in Watson 310. Everyday, from 9am-Noon we had the pleasure of spending time learning about the United Kingdom and its customs from Prof. Parkhouse and Prof. Wolfe. As of Friday May 4th, at Noon, we were free to head home for a brief reprieve before meeting at JFK on Wednesday May 9th.

(L to R) Emily Covington, Mark Twain, and Nancy Adler at Elmira College

DSCN3155
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Abby Ziegler

DSCN3141
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Class Year: 2010
Major(s): Political Science with minors in History/Women's Studies
Interests/Activities: College Democrats, Volleyball, activism, photography

What do you hope to gain/learn from this trip?
-A better understnding for another country and to witness the history of a powerful nation.

Drew Kelsey

DSCN3142
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Class Year: 2008
Major(s): Psychology, History

What is one thing you are most interested in doing or seeing while in the UK?
- Probably going to see Dover, the castle there, and hopefully being able to see across the English channel from there as well.

Ashley Diogo

DSCN3143
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Class Year: 2008
Major(s): Psychology, Women's Studies

If you could meet any famous person from the UK, past or present, who would it be and why?
- If I had to pick one person to meet from the UK it would be Princess Diana because I think she was a very intelligent and interesting woman who would have a great deal to say.

-Lastly, I hope everyone has a great and memorable time, and gains what they hoped for out of the trip.

Aimee Mitchell

DSCN3154
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Class Year: 2009
Major(s): Psychology and Business
Interests/Activities: Sports (especially baseball, volleyball, and soccer), art, reading, writing, music, Student Activities Board, Student Alumni Council, Orientation Leader and Orientation Exec Comittee

What do you hope to gain/learn from this trip?
- I have never travelled overseas and I am excited for this opportunity. I want to learn about the culture and history of the United Kingdom, and I can't wait to do so by experiencing it firsthand. I also hope to make lots of new friends.

Lindsey Larsen

DSCN3144
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Class Year: 2009
Major(s): Business Administration
Interests/Activities:All Girl Cheerleading, Dance, Volunteering at Elementary schools

What do you hope to gain/learn from this trip?
- I hope to be able to gain the knowledge and experience of traveling abroad. I would love to spend some time travelling all over the world, and this will give me some knowledge of what to expect in other countries.

Kayleigh MacFarlane

DSCN3146
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Class Year: 2009
Major(s): Bio-Chemistry
Interests/Activities: I love acting in plays, painting, and going hiking.

If you could have your picture taken anywhere in the UK where would it be?
- If I could have my picture anywhere I would have it taken on the stage of the Globe theatre or in the area of Scotland where my family comes from.

Chandler Paradis

DSCN3139
Originally uploaded by ecuk07.

Class Year: 2008
Major(s): English Literature
Interests/Activities: Sports Medicine, Tennis, Football, Music

If you could have your picture taken anywhere in the UK where would it be?
- Playing on Centre Court at Wimbledon.