When people think of Tokyo, they often picture large skyscrapers, big flashing lights and Shibuya Crossing. However, there is more to the biggest city in the world besides its urban center. Did you know it’s only an hour-long train ride from Shinjuku to Mount Takao? Mount Takao has lush forests… read more
Asia
From Rural Texas to Mexico and Seoul: Studying Abroad as a First-Generation Student
A Dream I Never Thought Possible As the plane touched down at Incheon International Airport, a flood of memories from my school days at Kerens ISD and la Escuela Primaria Pánfilo Natera washed over me. I thought of the afternoons spent tackling college-level math, seeking help from Mr. Nick, and… read more
Celebrating New Beginnings in Singapore
The moment I landed at Changi Airport after a 24-hour flight with two suitcases in the pouring rain, I knew my life was rapidly changing. After hours of running around the city for an eSIM card and a pillow, it finally hit me that I would spend the next 17… read more
Exploring Modernity and Tradition in Seoul
I’ve been in South Korea for three months and have had life-changing experiences. I can still remember the anxiety that consumed me as I stepped foot off the plane. Will South Korea be different from what I imagined? How will I adapt to a new culture and language thousands of… read more
Study Abroad Program Highlights: Taiwan, Botswana and Indonesia
Studying abroad is more than a trip – it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures, push yourself out of your comfort zone and gain unforgettable experiences. The University of Texas at Austin offers many programs across the world that combine education with adventure. Here’s a quick look at… read more
Football, Art, and the Great Outdoors: Wild Times in South Korea
Some of my experiences in Seoul, South Korea, have been nothing short of surreal. I wish I could share all of them, but it would take an eternity to put everything in this blog. That said, here are a few highlights. Earlier this semester, I came across a poster at… read more
Bridging Academics and Culture: My Journey at Fudan University
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
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
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