Gertrude K.
Profile
Hometown
Hauraki, New Zealand
How did you find London compared to what you were expecting?
It's been great, harder than I ever could have imagined but also wonderful.
What is the achievement you're most proud of since moving to the UK?
I'm proud that I survived my first six months. I moved six times, made friendships that fell a part, got evicted, but I survived! I also found during those times what I was made of and who my true friends are. I wouldn't exchange that experience for anything.
What is a moment you will always remember from your time abroad?
I went to Women's March on London. I was one of over 100,000 people marching for human rights and liberation. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I had never been a part of something that big before.
How has your experience abroad changed your outlook on the world?
Coming to the UK really showed me how sheltered I was in New Zealand. The world is so big and full and complex and you can't fully understand that by reading about it or watching videos on the internet.
Coming here has opened me up to ideas for my future. I currently work for a massive company and I'm helping to formalise processes for international markets. I never would have had that if I had stayed in New Zealand.
What would you say to someone who's thinking about moving to the UK with BritBound?
Come through BritBound, for real. They gave me the support that I needed to get settled here, I got my first flat and my job through BritBound. My first London night out was with BritBound (even if it was The Slug). Basically, they meant that I wasn't lost.