MBA students explore the Tower of London, Portobello Road Market and the city’s historic Underground on their London experience.
This is the third article in the series, “A Quid for Your Thoughts,” written by members of the BUS 7040: Study Abroad in London course. The series captures reflections from students’ study abroad experience in the United Kingdom during spring break 2026.
If you had told us on day one that we would be navigating the Tube without looking like lost tourists, we probably wouldn’t have believed you. But here we are on day four with a better understanding, more confidence, and the ability to guide ourselves throughout London.
Our day started with breakfast at the hotel. The spread included French toast, omelets, pastries and toast, along with a classic English breakfast featuring eggs, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, sausage and bacon. We also had access to a full buffet with mini chocolate croissants (our favorite), fresh fruit, meats, cheeses, cereals and yogurt — perfect fuel for a busy day ahead.
After meeting our guide in the hotel lobby — along with Dr. Niederjohn, whose guiding we’ve almost forgotten about as he has seamlessly become one of the group, just a slightly older one—we hopped on the Tube to the Tower of London. There, we were lucky enough to witness the changing of the Tower Guard and see the Crown Jewels in person while also capturing scenic photos of Tower Bridge. Photos of the jewels weren’t allowed, but trust us — they were brilliant.
Our guide also shared stories about the tragic events that have taken place at this historic castle, fortress and former prison. We explored other areas of the Tower and experienced firsthand the weight of its darker history.
From there, we walked along the River Thames to Dickens Inn for lunch. Most of our group enjoyed fish and chips — an English staple — while taking in picturesque views of London. After lunch, we split up for some free time. A small group of us rode the Circle Line to Notting Hill Gate, where we explored Portobello Road Market, browsing street vendors and admiring the colorful buildings lining the street.
Before heading back, we stopped by the Notting Hill Travel Bookshop, famously featured in the 1999 romantic comedy Notting Hill, starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, to pick up a few souvenirs. Others traveled to London’s financial district to tour the Bank of England as part of their course projects.
To wrap up another day in London, our class is meeting for dinner at the Sawyers Arms, just a few blocks from Hyde Park and close to our hotel, before getting a good night’s sleep ahead of our trip to Cambridge tomorrow.
Written by Taylor Van Brocklin, strategic marketing ’26; Kathleen Lococo, strategic marketing ’26; and Korvika Tripathi, operations management, sustainability and analytics ’26.
For further reading on the 2026 study abroad trip to London:
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. This study abroad experience is offered through the Concordia University Free Enterprise Center. During the first 8 weeks of the semester, students meet on campus to study the economy, government, politics and culture of the United Kingdom. The course concludes with a spring break trip to London, including a visit to Cambridge and Westfield House.
CUW offers more than 500 study abroad programs in 48 countries. Students have the opportunity to experience new cultures, broaden their global perspective and gain professional insight — all while earning a degree.
Expand your horizons. Experience the world.