The tories have received their largest landslide victory since the Thatcher years.

Conservatives have 365 MPs, Labour 203, the SNP 48, Liberal Democrats 11 and the DUP eight.

I think this indicates a clear desire for Brexit, but will also put a large amount of pressure on a “united” kingdom.

Due to the SNP’s continued success, coupled with Scotland’s Europhilia and English and Welsh Euroscepticism, I predict that Scotland will leave the United Kingdom within the next five years.

I also predict that the UK will leave the European Union within the next two.

What a time to be studying politics in London! What an election! I love British politics!

Definitely one of the more eventful weeks of my time studying abroad!

Monday we heard from diplomats to the UK from the US, Canada, Australia and Germany. I loved this as I’d love to be a diplomat when I’m older. I can’t say too much more about this session as it was off-the-record, but I can tell you that I’m now even more sold on the profession.

Tuesday we visited Bletchley Park, of Imitation Game fame. This is where Alan Turing and other scientists broke German codes during World War II.

Wednesday we went to Windsor and I had a nice cream tea and explored the castle.

Thursday I had my classes, and have been discussing my dissertation with my professors which has been really helpful! I have finished up the areas that detail globalisation and nationalism in general, and am currently working on the sections that look at each country in Britain (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland) in detail in regards to globalisation and nationalism.

I was also surprised by my cousins with a lovely thanksgiving dinner even though it’s not celebrated over here! It was such a nice evening with some of my favourite people in the world.

Friday we (John, Jenny and I) left for Bath. We stayed in a little boat, which was nice in theory—but in practice, freezing cold!! The heating didn’t work. But Bath itself was lovely.

Saturday I was able to visit the Roman baths which were so fascinating. I loved the museum within the baths as well.

And today we headed back! I head to Manchester with my programme tomorrow, and I do hope that I’ll feel better as I currently feel quite sick.

Another interesting week politically in the UK. On Tuesday, ITV held the first ever head-to-head debate between Conservative and Labour candidates for PM. The candidates were, of course, Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn. It was an excellent debate— both candidates did well and I was engaged the whole time while watching it. The audience for the debate was awesome, as well. They would laugh at or boo the candidates whenever they made a dubious point or didn’t answer a question after being prompted. I thought Boris Johnson did slightly better than Jeremy Corbyn, but it was close.

On Monday and Tuesday we had lectures from people involved in facilitating and analysing the general election. Wednesday was devoted to touring the Royal Courts of Justice and the British Supreme Court. This was really neat, as there are so many differences between the British and American systems. I don’t know much about law—I’m embarrassed to say that it’s always been a weak point for me in terms of things important to political science—so I learned a lot.

Thursday, in between lectures, I received really helpful insight from my professors regarding my dissertation. I’ve elected to slightly narrow the scope of my dissertation from “globalisation and British identity” to “globalisation and British regional nationalism.” I was already planning on mainly focusing on regional nationalism, and British identity is too vague by itself, so I am confident that this revision will ultimately be helpful.

Friday was a great day. I visited Cambridge, and I truly fell in love! I started the day with a lovely breakfast at the Ivy.

I then went on a student-led walking tour of Cambridge. I learned all about the University of Cambridge’s history, traditions, quirks and more. The student who led the tour had just finished his masters’ degree at Cambridge, and told me about student life and academic opportunities at the University for post-grad students. It seemed to be everything I would want from a university and so I am seriously considering Cambridge to receive my masters degree in international politics.

I was impressed at how Cambridge managed to be so historical, prestigious and traditional, yet also down-to-earth, charming, and cool at the same time. Everyone was friendly and seemed to be quite happy.

Later I had another Star Wars meet-up. As usual, this was awesome :). A perk of living in a huge city is that it’s easy to meet likeminded nerds.

Saturday I saw Frozen 2 with my little cousin Emmy and Nadia. I later hung out with a friend around Camden. Indoors, though —I couldn’t do much else as it rained and was so miserable outside. 😦

And today I’m working on my dissertation. I need to get lots done as next weekend I’ll be in Bath with family!

This week has been jam-packed, but great.

Monday and Tuesday we had pretty interesting lectures about british media and politics. The backdrop for everything has been the upcoming general election. It’ll be incredible to be here during such a pivotal time.

Wednesday we had a tour of the City district of London, and the Guildhall. The City has totally different laws, norms, etc than the rest of London, so it was interesting exploring this firsthand.

Thursday we had lectures in our classes per usual.

I’ve been working on my critical analysis essay that examines how my internship, studies and other aspects of this experience in London have impacted me as a person and as a scholar. I am delighted to report that, as I have learned so much and done so much, I have had no trouble writing this essay. 🙂

Friday was one of the best days of my life so far! It was how days should be! I started the day with a full English breakfast. I then explored Notting Hill, an area depicted in many movies. It did not disappoint — it was charming and quirky.

I then went to Covent Garden with my British friends Rachel and Eve. It is so lovely, especially during the holiday season!

Then we saw Mamma Mia at the Novello Theatre. I was so impressed — the singing, dancing and acting was impeccable. I really wouldn’t change a thing! It was so well done.

On Saturday I visited Birmingham. I started the day with a tour of the Back to Backs — this was done by the National Trust and therefore was steeped with historical facts. I really enjoyed it.

I then went to the lovely German Christmas Market. It’s the biggest one outside Frankfurt!

I finished the day with shopping at the Bull Ring, including having a look in the biggest Primark in the world! Brum was fun!

And today I’m going to finish my critical analysis essay, and probably watch an episode of the new season of the Crown. 🙂

Sorry for not posting pictures of last week: it has been hectic, and here’s why: the MP I worked for, Ian Austin, has not only announced that he will not seek re-election, but has endorsed Boris Johnson for the election. He says that Corbyn is a national security threat, an extremist and a supporter of terrorists. This move by Mr. Austin is UNPRECEDENTED! I have been busy focusing all of my time on research and analysis to understand this sort of political fragmentation, something that disproves typical ideas of party polarisation; for a minister in the government of Gordon Brown (the former Labour PM) to endorse the Tories is sensational. Mr. Austin was on the front of all the newspapers over here (even the Evening Standard!), so it was something special to be able to say that I was able to work for him. He has led a distinguished career fighting for his constituency and I wish him all the best. His decision (regardless of whether you agree or disagree) took a tremendous amount of courage and conviction.

You probably heard about how the UK voted to hold a general election on December 12. The tide finally broke through the figurative levee and there was no delaying its flow! Unfortunately, that means that my internship is cut short. I only will have until Tuesday the 5th, and then I’ll be done working at Parliament. I’m really upset about this — although my programme has arranged alternative lectures and events for us to attend in lieu of the internship, that will be just as rigorous and educational as the internship would be, I know it won’t be the same. On the other hand I am excited to be over here during such a tumultuous time.

Monday through Wednesday I was able to do all sorts of great work for my MP and attended some interesting events as well. I was even able to go to the last Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) before the general election! It was awesome—I loved the banter, but also was impressed at how so many important issues were addressed by the Prime Minister and those who asked him questions. I wasn’t bored for even a minute. There were some touching tributes to the Speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow, as well, because it was his last session as Speaker. It ended up being the longest PMQs in British history: clocking in at one and a half hours!

In my first class on Thursday I learned more about specific policies that have been influential in British politics, specifically the policy of universal credit. In my second class, I learned about the British constitution in detail and how its structures differ from the American constitution (hint hint: the British barely have a written constitution, as it is not formally codified—it’s mostly made of norms, laws and precedent).

On Friday I first had the best brunch at my new favourite place, Dishoom — the same place where I had the best curry of my life! I was given a free newspaper, bottomless chai and a naan breakfast roll. Amazing atmosphere, amazing food and a truly lovely morning.

Later I went to the Tate Modern, which to be honest wasn’t my cup of tea; I tend to prefer classical art to modern art, but there were still many pieces that I liked.

After I did my usual wandering around Soho, especially Regents Street and Carnaby Street, and had some choux for dinner. By the end of the day, I had walked ten miles!

After my wandering, I went to a lovely Star Wars meet-up with some super interesting people around London.

Saturday I was able to see my Dad for the first time in two months, as he is over in the UK on a business trip! It was so great being reunited. We spent the day in York, which was lovely. We started the day at the York Minster, which astounded both of us with its architectural style, attention to detail and vibrant colours.

We climbed 275 steps to reach the top, and were rewarded with an excellent view of York.

After this, we went to the Grand Hotel for an afternoon tea. This was so lovely as there were sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, mini desserts, and of course a wonderful cup of tea.

We then explored York’s quirky and eclectic shops, especially the ones along the Shambles street.

After this we went for a drink in a super neat pub, and then went to an Indian restaurant for dinner. This dinner was terrible and we were very disappointed, and to top that off our train was delayed so we didn’t reach London until midnight. Oh well, at least the rest of the day was good!

Today (Sunday) my cousins and dad and I all went for dinner at Zizzi. It was so much fun to have everyone together!

I had an extremely fascinating week at my internship. I’ve continued to do all sorts of great work on behalf of my MP, but also I’ve gotten out and about around Parliament. From waiting in the lunch line next to Theresa May, to attending an event hosted by Andrea Leadsom, I’ve been brushing shoulders with lots of important and interesting British politicians.

As you may know, the Prime Minister has promised to exit the European Union by 31 October many, many times. He got his Brexit deal to a second reading, as well. However Parliament did not approve his timetable for the legislation, so I doubt that the 31 October deadline will even be close to when Britain ends up leaving the EU. The communication breakdown between the two sides seems to be almost unbridgeable, so I really don’t know what’s going to happen. If I had to guess, I’d say they will get an extension until January and hold an election soon after.

London is so quirky and fun. On Tuesday, the Times “took over” the Westminster station, and redecorated it, changed the signs, played jungle noises and handed out free Times newspapers! It was really weird, but really cool.

Thursday I had my classes which continue to be interesting, and got to work on my essay on the House of Lords, something I’ve been considering and tweaking all weekend as well. After classes, a few friends and I went to Dishoom, an amazing Art Deco Indian restaurant. We had a two hour wait, which seems horrible but High Street Kensington is so interesting that I barely noticed it and just went to shops during the wait time. Once we got in, I had the best curry of my life! It was a gorgeous restaurant with really unique decor.

Friday I went to see my cousins John and Jenny, and we went to Reigate. It was quite rainy but we found a nice cafe and some nice shops to explore.

Saturday we went to Margate, which I really enjoyed. It was a seaside town with lots of charm. It was gritty and real, rather than trying too hard. We saw the Turner exhibition, which had award winning immersive exhibits. Afterwards we explored some shops around the area including bookshops, antique shops and even a junkyard.

Today I plan on finishing up my House of Lords essay! The prompt asks if it should be abolished. I am taking the position that the House of Lords should not be abolished, but should instead be reformed to a body made up of independent experts, chosen by a commission.

Another interesting week in London. My internship has been great, as I’ve been able to do lots of important work and attend events as well. It’s starting to become a routine, but the novelty still hasn’t worn off. I am trying to not become desensitised to the fact that I am in the UK Parliament doing interesting, important political work. It’s easy to get used to things, but I won’t let that happen!

Thursday I had my first dissertation meeting, and I’m happy to report that my advisor really liked my ideas. I can’t wait to do more research into devolution and how globalisation has spurred that on, and how the British union is fragmenting but still strong in many ways.

If any of you are interested, I’d be happy to send you my dissertation proposal.

Friday I explored Manchester. It was a city with lots of personality, and I liked it. It had great shops and great street art. I had amazing food as well— Spanish tapas!

I do think it would have been better to have stayed the night and enjoyed the nightlife, rather than going in the day as I did. It was eerily quiet …

Saturday I had a great day exploring the Tower of London with some of my cousins. It’s truly an incredible place and is a thousand years old, dating from William the Conquerer! Especially being American where nothing is older than 250 years, it’s a wild feeling to see something that’s as old as a millennia. The Tower does a great job of totally immersing you in its history and presenting it from multiple different angles.

Also, as some of you know Brexit was delayed again on Saturday. It leaves me wondering whether it will ever happen considering how many MPs will always vote to keep extending the deadline to leave.

Later I went to the London neighbourhood of Shoreditch and enjoyed some of the nightlife.

Sunday I went to Soho with a British friend and explored. Soho is probably my favourite part of London, as it’s so eclectic and you never know what you’ll find.

I realised on Sunday that the shops in Soho were already better than the ones in Manchester, and the shops were my favourite part of Manchester … again, London asserted its superiority over other cities in the world!

We finished the day off with this amazing sundae from Creams — Creams is a sit-down dessert restaurant with a few locations around London and the greater UK. Highly recommend. 🙂

Had a wonderful week at my internship, even though I’m definitely getting sick. I have been able to do loads of interesting work, but due to regulations I can’t tell you all much more :).

I’ve been trying to work on essays for my classes, but as I’ve been under the weather all week it’s been really difficult. All I’ve wanted to do is sleep, unfortunately. Oh well!

Thursday night I was able to go to a cool event near the Canada Water area called “Curry Curry Bang Bang” that had the best curries in London plus great desserts. It was super hip and trendy, and I enjoyed it a lot.

On Friday I went to Brixton, which was a bit disappointing (maybe it’s just been overhyped, maybe I just didn’t understand the appeal, who knows?) but I at least was able to see the Joker, which was awesome. Great acting from Joaquin Phoenix. The theatre I went to was both affordable and nice—it was a converted ‘20s era theatre with lovely decor and comfy seats. The sound and picture was excellent as well.

I was in Essex on Saturday and Sunday. I love the little town of Maldon, as it is quaint and charming.

On Saturday, my cousins and I went shopping at this place called Lakeside, where I got loads of great deals—it was nice just having some “girl time!” The shopping time was well worth not going out this week. Afterwards we got Indian takeaway (always a good choice).

On Sunday we went to this restaurant called the Lion’s Inn, which was amazing. It always is a great experience (we went there last time I was in Essex and I had a lovely time then as well).

I hope next week I’ll have a bit more to report regarding academics and other stuff. Unfortunately this week I’ve been sick so I haven’t been able to get much done—fingers crossed I’ll be feeling better.

I had another packed but interesting week. Monday I had classes which centered around policy implementation and the House of Commons. It has been SO helpful to hear the theory of british politics and policy while still paying attention to the unique context in which it is all being “played out” — such a turbulent, but fascinating, time!

Tuesday I arrived in Edinburgh. I explored the Old Town and was stunned by its beauty.

Wednesday I heard lectures from EU officials and Scottish academics. It was especially interesting hearing about Scotland’s relationship with the “two unions” : the United Kingdom and the European Union. I was able to glean lots of information that will be helpful for my dissertation, which will focus on British identity (and, therefore, Scottish and other regional identities). We visited Edinburgh Castle as well.

Thursday I heard from various members of the Scottish Parliament. I was impressed with the directness with which the SMPs answered my questions, and enjoyed hearing various views regarding Scottish independence, Brexit and more. I was also able to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This was cool in of itself, and the Palace was beautiful, but the thing I was most excited about had nothing to do with the Palace … that thing being Meghan Markle’s wedding dress! It was on display for a few days (but unfortunately I was not allowed to take a picture of it). I was so lucky to have been there to see it for the few days that it was “visiting” Holyroodhouse!

Friday I explored Leith, home of the Trainspotting films and movies. Leith has such a gripping and often sad history, and my tour guide did an incredible job of showing me its harsh realities. It still manages to be beautiful despite its history of abandonment and neglect from the government. The picture below of the park is where the “binocular” scene with Mark and Sick Boy was filmed.

Saturday I went on a tour of the Scottish Highlands called the “Loch Ness Tour.” I saw misty mountains with craggy peaks, black lakes that reflect every sliver of light… and had a Scotch whisky flavoured ice cream! As you can see, my hair didn’t do well in the wind.

Sunday I took the train back to London, and was able to finish my policy anaysis. Spoiler alert: I came to the conclusion that Labour’s policy of the four-day workweek is NOT a good idea.

And then today, Monday, I started my internship in Parliament! I’m not allowed to talk much about it, but I can tell you this—I’m getting to do great, important work for my MP and I love my coworkers.