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
College of Liberal Arts
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
My German Lifestyle
My first few weeks of classes have passed and I’m astonished at the fact that I don’t have any assignments to do yet. Part of me feels this is strange, as I am used to having assignments to complete before most classes. However, the other part of me feels free.… read more
Tangier and Chefchaouen: Morocco’s Hidden Gems
Wow. It doesn’t even feel like it’s been two months, but this semester has flown by. I genuinely feel like I’ve seen more of Morocco than I have seen of my home state of Texas. The classes I’m taking through the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) have… read more
Celebrating Taiwan’s National Holiday
On October 10, Taiwan bursts into vibrant celebrations for “國慶日,” or National Day. This day commemorates the Wuchang Uprising of 1911 that heralded the end of China’s Qing Dynasty and paved the way for establishing the Republic of China. The celebrations, rich with festivity, beautifully display Taiwan’s cultural diversity and… read more
Morocco: Part 2
Five years ago, during one life-changing month, I fell completely in love with this country. It was particularly transformative because it was my first time flying on a plane, solo traveling and traveling outside the country. I discovered a place where I could improve my Arabic, French and even Spanish… read more