From Westminster to the White Cliffs: ECC Students Experience London’s Cultural Icons

Twelve students from East Central College embarked on an unforgettable adventure in March as part of the Arts and Humanities Spring Break experience in London, England.

Led by ECC Associate Professor of English Leigh Kolb, Instructor of English Katie Holtmeyer, and Enrollment Counselor Haley Walter, the group explored some of London’s most iconic cultural landmarks and artistic treasures.

The students who participated in the trip were: Taylor Greife, Tessa Schweich, Taylor Rowald, Kathryn Boehner, Taylor James, Chase Godfrey, Elijah Long, Shayne Harrington, Dalton Pealer, Audrey Thompson, Dana Briggs, and Chae Keeney.

During their time abroad, the group visited renowned sites including Westminster Abbey, the British Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the Tate Modern and Tate Britain galleries, the British Library, the Natural History Museum, and the historic Tower of London.

They also experienced a live performance of Cabaret in London’s celebrated West End theatre district.

In addition to their time in the city, the group took a day trip to hike along the White Cliffs of Dover and attend an Evensong service at Canterbury Cathedral.

The London Spring Break experience has a rich history at ECC: it was originally initiated by former ECC Art Professor Adam Watkins in 2008. Since then, the program has expanded to include a broader range of disciplines. Kolb began serving as co-advisor in 2016, opening the experience to English and Media Studies students alongside Art students.

Today, the tradition continues with participants from the Arts and Humanities Pathway, Art Club, Student Publications, and others with an interest in these fields making the annual journey.