Hi, I’m Xiuqiang Deng, a dual major in economics and sociology from The University of Texas at Austin. I’m currently studying at Fudan University in Shanghai, China, as part of the Texas Global Education Abroad program. In this post, I’ll share thoughts about my journey and what it’s like to… read more
The Land of the Morning Calm
Three months into my semester at Hanyang University, there’s a whirlwind of thoughts in my mind. I love being in South Korea and having such a unique opportunity to study here. Every new experience is exciting and challenging, and I’ve been able to take on so many new things during… read more
Funding Study Abroad with the First Abroad Scholarship
Studying abroad can shape everyone’s academic journey and personal growth. But for first-generation college students, navigating higher education can seem particularly daunting, and the opportunity to travel and learn in a different cultural context may feel out of reach. Fortunately, the First Abroad Scholarship offers crucial support for first-generation students… read more
The Gift of Friendships Abroad
“Tekrardan merhaba” — hello once again! Disclaimer: Google Translate and a very kind friend contributed to the translation of the previous sentence, as my Turkish is regrettably still “iyi değil” (not up to par). It’s apt that my friend so thoughtfully contributed to the introductory sentence of this blog post since… read more
Learning to Find Comfort in the Cold
I’ve only been in London for a month, but every Londoner I’ve met seems equally exasperated by the near-constant cloud cover. I’ve made small talk with my professors and the man selling fresh scones, giggling as they lament the shifting seasons. Winter is coming to London, and I couldn’t be… read more
Finding Home in the Heart of London
Studying abroad in London has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Every day, I find myself in awe, pinching myself as I walk through streets filled with history, culture and endless opportunities. It still feels surreal to be here, surrounded by so much life and energy,… read more
Embracing Fall in Edinburgh
This week marks my fifth week in Edinburgh, and time seems to crawl and fly by simultaneously. While I’ve settled into a routine and feel more at ease with the rhythm of the city, I still wake each morning slightly astonished that I am living abroad. Although the novelty of… read more
Touch of Tech Transformations
Although it feels like I just stepped off the plane at Incheon Airport, the first two months of my study abroad program have somehow already flown by. As someone with no prior experience with Korean culture, my journey has been both enlightening and exciting. The transportation here is incredibly convenient… read more
Seoul Searching: A One-Month Reflection
My study abroad experience almost ended one week before it began, when I discovered my passport and visa were stolen from the Korean Consulate’s mailbox. Luckily, after several back-and-forth phone calls and an urgent flight to Dallas, I had everything I needed to board my flight. I had dreamed of… read more
A Letter From Madrid
Hi everyone! I’m writing to you from Madrid. I want to share my experience in this program so you can get a taste of what it’s like to study abroad in Madrid as an international student. I’m a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in communication… read more
