Now that my working visa for the U.K. is processed, the planning is more tangible! Before it was theory, with a little voice in the back of my head that said, “Perhaps the Fulbright Committee made a mistake. Maybe they’ll email and say you aren’t going to Nottingham.”

As a notorious over-packer trying to cover weather in the U.K. from August to January, account for dressing for work at the University of Nottingham, as well as semi-casual weekend exploring clothes, I’m kind of flummoxed. And by “kind of” I mean: OH, NO! WHAT WILL I BRING?!? All. Of. The Stuff!

In the past, when I tried packing in a “more reasonable way” for a weekend in Montreal, I forgot my shirts! This week, at a course on extreme weather in Ocracoke Island, I forgot my toothpaste and toothbrush! (No worries, people, I was loaned given one by the front desk.)

So, taking into consideration the various outfits I need for work, play, and travel –  as well as weather ranging from 80º F to 30, rain to sun. And more rain, apparently. Oh, and snow in the winter…WHAT SHALL I DO?

Pictured above are my two suitcases. I also will have a carry-on pilot’s case. In addition, I have funding to board one or two more bags. I must keep reminding myself that once I get to London, though, I must manage to get all of this to Nottingham. Does anyone in the U.K. have a moving van who might meet me at the airport? (kidding)

To add to the mix, I still don’t know where I’m living, but I’m hoping for a fully furnished flat. I’ll buy towels and linens once I arrive, I’m thinking. So please, help me…WHAT SHOULD I PACK TO BRING TO ENGLAND?

The numbers are daunting: Only 17% acceptance rate – Only 45 Americans chosen a year – Only ONE spot at my chosen university available. After making past the written application stage and then the interview process, I was among the chosen:

FULBRIGHT DISTINGISHED AWARD in TEACHING

          Dear Mrs. Marjorie Light: On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, I would like to              congratulate you on being selected for the Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program.

Next, school year, I’ll be teaching, researching, and studying at Nottingham University in England!

I’ll be researching both the successful teacher education program at Nottingham University and studying how U.K. minority children are educated in the secondary education system. My experiences at J.D. Clement Early College High School provides much to share with my future colleagues in England.

Aside from working, I’ll be doing as much exploring as possible in my new home during the duration of my stay. Follow along here as I post photos, musings, and discoveries. My dream came true and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Cover Photo Credit: Free, fair usage from Panoramio user Rob Shelton; Montage from mysalute.biz Nursing Recruiting in Italy