I’ve never flown by myself before, let alone taken four international flights to a continent I’ve only seen in movies. Despite not knowing what to expect, I traveled to Maun, Botswana, for a once-in-a-lifetime study abroad experience. Landing in the dusty village of Maun with a few other students, nervous… read more
College of Liberal Arts
“Niceties” in France
The independence associated with “university life” is commonly acknowledged as a period of self-discovery. It’s a time in one’s life when you enter the real world, free from the confines of your childhood. In this new, unfamiliar environment, you’re driven to develop interpersonally as you’ve never done before, amid a… read more
The House on Şair Necati Sokak: An Istanbul Diary
“Merhaba ve hoş geldiniz,” or, hello and welcome! I have lived in Istanbul for three months, and my experiences here have been the greatest gift. Turkey is an incredible country, with picturesque landscapes, rich cultural traditions, gregarious citizens and a fascinating, albeit intricate, history. My first impression of the… read more
Ramadan in Rabat
Wow! I can’t believe the midterm season is finally over, which means I’m already more than halfway through the semester. It doesn’t feel like I’ve been here for over two months. I want time to stop because I’ve enjoyed it here so much. In a way, it feels as if… read more
Beyond Borders: Exploring the World, Finding My Way
Living abroad in Europe is a remarkable experience for countless reasons, but perhaps one of the most extraordinary aspects is the ease and affordability of travel. The ability to hop on a train or plane and find yourself in a new country within just a few hours has allowed me… read more
Exploring Mexico and Reflecting on Studying Abroad
After three and a half months of living in Mexico City, I’m starting to realize I’m more than halfway through my study abroad experience. This is a bittersweet moment, as I’m just starting to settle into the way of life in Mexico City, with its traffic, street vendors, fast energy… read more
The Magic of Marrakesh and Essaouira
I can’t believe a new semester is already here! After spending the entire fall semester in Rabat, Morocco, I was excited to delve back into my courses this year and eager to return to this city that I now call my second home. This past weekend, though, I wasted no… read more
Embracing España: A Month in Madrid Through the Eyes of an Exchange Student
Leaving the comfort of home is a daunting yet exhilarating experience, especially when that home is as amazing as Austin, Texas. Attending college in my hometown is fantastic for many reasons. I get to see my family every week, my dogs are just a five-minute drive from my apartment and… read more
A Longhorn in Mexico City
The serene view of clouds and the hum of the airplane were suddenly interrupted by the tone of the captain. “We are approaching Mexico City, prepare for landing,” he said. Curiously occupying the window, I eagerly started to look outside, excited yet terrified of the first glimpse of my new… read more
Christmas Enchantment in Freiburg
As the Black Forest mountains bask in the background, beautiful Freiburg has slowly been transformed into a Christmas city. Locals and visitors flock to the “Altstadt,” or old town, to experience the enchantment of Freiburg’s annual “Weihnachtsmarkt” Christmas market. Freiburg exudes a medieval charm, thanks to its cobblestone streets and… read more
