Hi. My name is Isabella and I am a senior studying abroad at Queen Mary University of London this fall semester. Before beginning my exchange semester I was unsure what to expect living on campus at a different university. I have traveled abroad before, but I struggled to find foods that I could eat as I have allergies and many food restrictions that make it difficult. I also was nervous to be living in a flat with 8 people, so I truly did not know what to expect.
Before I arrived I felt so confident. I packed all the clothes I needed, kitchen supplies, towels and medications I needed in my suitcases. I even pre-ordered my bedding and I felt very on top of everything. But from the time that I arrived I started feeling more homesick and wishing I had more support. After I arrived at my flat I came to realize that most of my flatmates were first year home students. I was nervous that I would not be able to connect with them as well, but that later proved to be wrong.
I knew that the university that I was at supplied a meal plan but what I didn't know was that most of the foods within the meal plan I couldn't eat. I came to realize that a lot of allergies and food restrictions in the US are not very common abroad which makes it harder to share food and communal spaces as well as eating from the dining hall. My first two weeks of food shopping felt very bare minimum. Additionally, a lot of the restaurants in the area were not very conducive to my allergies and many of the apps for ordering food for pick up did not take them into consideration. Many times I felt isolated when it came to food and that was very hard for me as back at GW I have had my own kitchen while also having the option of eating at allergy friendly locations on campus.
Over time I got to know my flatmates, and introduced them to my allergies and food restrictions, although difficult in the beginning, allowed for us to grow closer, sometimes cooking meals together in common spaces. Also, after about 4 weeks I decided to get adventurous and go out with some other friends that I have met who also have food restrictions and allergies. We went to many tourist locations such as Borough Market and were able to try a bunch of fruit juices and sandwiches. Many of which could be made to meet our allergies, with gluten free, vegetarian, and other options available.
Also London has some amazing restaurants that drive to be allergy friendly. One of my best quick eats throughout the city is sushi dog. They have several locations around the city and were conducive to my allergies and food restrictions. Finding others like me, I was able to connect with the city in a different way and make meaningful friendships. Although it may seem difficult in the beginning to adjust to a new city, there may be opportunities that allow you to branch out.
Isabella Becker Nemerofsky
Fall 2025
GW Exchange - Queen Mary, University of London
Elliott School of International Affairs
International Affairs & Economics Double Major