A poem by our alumnus Rahul Krishna about his experience of living and studying in London. Rahul did his Masters in Law in the 2017-2018 academic year.
Throwback to the 12th of September 2017;
I set foot in a new land, it is a new start.
Patiently I stand at the Immigration Counter;
Cannot describe the excitement in my heart.
The Uber moves out of Heathrow;
Into the city, a new beginning for this simpleton.
Zooming rapidly past Harrow and Central;
I finally get off – first stop is Islington.
Walking to Mildmay Park Bus Stop to get my 277;
Welcome to a new country – it is time to blend.
Riding past the greenery of Victoria Park;
I finally arrive at Mile End.
Few important things to get done;
Lots more to learn.
To get my BRP at the Aldwych Post Office;
I take the super-fast Central line to Holborn.
The 2 crucial bus routes, part of everyday life;
205 to Paddington, 25 to Ilford.
The hustle and bustle of it all;
Including some running and jumping into the tube at Stratford.
Undiscovered gems, like the Valentines Park;
Are a stone’s throw away from Gants Hill.
With the geese and swans adorably swimming;
I let the peace sink in while standing still.
Home to yet another beauty;
The Walthamstow Wetlands is right here.
Courtesy of the underground Victoria line;
Europe’s largest Urban Wetlands is so near.
Edgware Road offers a glimpse of the Middle East;
Do try the Shawarma and buy the famous dry fruit.
Walk around and soak in the vibe;
You could be forgiven for thinking you’re in Amman or Beirut.
QMUL’s Regents Canal defines “Peace”;
It was a pleasure to regularly feed the Canada Geese.
They sure did love it when I fed them Bread;
The next time, I shall treat them to Cheese.
A big thanks to the London Metropolitan Police;
Who work towards ensuring reduction in crime and the daily row.
Of special mention, in addition;
Are the heroes at Citizens Advice Bureau.
An integral part of British Conversation;
Are the words “Please”, “Sorry” and “Thank You”.
Hearing these words make you feel so good;
Especially when you come from a land where courtesies are “far” and “few”.
Thank you so much to the United Kingdom;
For making my stay an absolute pleasure.
Hopefully, there shall again come a day;
When I’ll explore this beautiful landscape at leisure.