The day began at BCU where we were learning about the growing increase in cardiovascular diseases and why they continue to be one of the leading causes of death around the world. During the session, we discussed how lifestyle factors such as poor diet, smoking, lack of exercise, stress, and obesity all contribute to the rise in heart-related conditions. It was interesting to learn how serious of an issue this is acrossed the globe and how we need to implimate better ways of education and prevention The topic felt especially important because cardiovascular diseases affect millions of people globally including memebers of my family. It was really stressed to us that prevention methods and awareness are very important to healthcare today. Listening to the information helped me better understand how complex the cardiovascular system is and how important it is for nurses and healthcare workers to recognize symptoms quickly and respond effectively. We also broke down EKGs or ECGs.

It was fascinating to see how healthcare workers can interpret different wave patterns and rhythms to understand what may be happening inside a patient’s heart. Learning about the P waves, QRS complexes, and T waves made the lesson feel very clinical and hands-on. It showed how important observation and attention to detail are in healthcare settings. Understanding ECGs also demonstrated how technology plays a huge role in diagnosing and monitoring patients. Even though some parts were challenging and I got lossed quite a few times, it was exciting to learn skills that are directly connected to real patient care and skills I will personaly be handling.

Next we went to lunch at the Boston Tea Party. The atmosphere there was bright and relaxing, which was the perfect break after sitting in lectures. I ordered pancakes along with an iced vanilla caramel latte, and both were amazing. The pancakes were some of the best I think Ive ever had, along with the latte. Sitting down with everyone and enjoying our lunch gave us time to relax and talk about everything we had learned earlier in the day along with what we wanted to do once we got to London. The café had a cozy and welcoming environment that made the experience even better and all of the workers were cheerful and wanted to talk to us about America and our trip to Birmingham.

After lunch, we began the long three-hour bus journey to London. Although the journey was long, it also gave everyone a chance to get some much needed sleep. I slept hard and long for the entire trip. I put on some music and was knocked out. . Even though the long bus rides we have taken on this trip can sometimes feel tiring, It just made me extra excited because we were one step closer to London.

Once we got to Londond the sun was out and the skies were blue! The city immediately felt busy, energetic, and full of life. Seeing the streets, buildings, and lights made it feel like we were stepping into a completely different environment compared to the places we had previously visited in Birmingham . London so far has such a unique atmosphere that is just so timeless. Even after a long journey, there was still excitement and energy because everyone was eager to explore and experience the city so we went around to the gift shops.

Later in the evening, we attended an alumni dinner with other Pitt students. This was such a special experience because it gave us the opportunity to meet and connect with people who had once been in similar positions as us. The dinner itself felt very fancy and professional, while still being and enjoyable. I got raviolis and shared with my group as we traded our different chosen dishes.

Now we are back at our gorgeous hotel!! One of the best parts of the hotel room was the rainfall shower head. It made the shower feel luxurious, almost like I was in a spa experience.. The hotel itself is elegant, comfortable, and peaceful, making it a great place to stay while exploring London. I love the robes that they gave us along with the slippers!