Ordinary Days, Extraordinary Place by Ellie Ruben

The adjustment period for an exchange program can vary from person to person, but I knew that the best way for me to adapt was to maintain a routine. So once I became settled in my accommodation, I figured that I should create a schedule that allowed me time to get ready and make my way to campus with time to grab breakfast before lecture. … Continue reading Ordinary Days, Extraordinary Place by Ellie Ruben

Learning Everywhere by Georgia Kern

Some of my best days abroad are spent travelling to new places. The UK is a great location from which to fly into continental Europe or even take the train under the English Channel. I have loved meeting fellow international students who are just as passionate about seeing the world as I am. My favorite ways to learn about a country/city’s culture are by tasting … Continue reading Learning Everywhere by Georgia Kern

A Love Letter to Osaka City! by Nathaniel Mejia

Last time, I talked about the Bamboo Trail in Kyoto. This time, I want to focus more on city life—specifically, that of Osaka! I’ve had the opportunity to explore many different parts of Japan, from Kyoto to Nara to my local Kansai area. However, Osaka has to be my favorite place to explore, with its vibrant nightlife, amazing food, and abundance of activities. If you’re … Continue reading A Love Letter to Osaka City! by Nathaniel Mejia

Exploring the Kyoto’s Bamboo forest by Nathaniel Mejia

Kyoto’s Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama Park is a site containing various important historical landmarks and temples, also home to the villa of a famous Japanese silent film actor, Okochi Sanso. There, I had the opportunity to explore the home of the famous actor as well as various shrines dotted both within and outside his abode. The climb up to his Villa however, was quite challenging. … Continue reading Exploring the Kyoto’s Bamboo forest by Nathaniel Mejia

My Trip to Toledo by Matthew Blackburn

One of the highlights of my study abroad experience has undoubtedly been our recent group excursion to Toledo, organized by the Franklin institute. Nestled atop a hill overlooking the scenic Tagus River, Toledo is a city that is full of rich history and breathtaking architecture. From the moment we arrived, it was clear why Toledo is often called the “City of Three Cultures” as it … Continue reading My Trip to Toledo by Matthew Blackburn

Living like a local by Naia Roper

Hey everyone, my name is Naia and I am a senior at CofC. I am double majoring in International Business as well as French and Francophone studies. This summer I am studying abroad in Lille, France through the Université Catholique de Lille’s European Summer Program! I chose this program because studying in France has been a dream of mine for years and I wanted the … Continue reading Living like a local by Naia Roper

Routine in the Alps: A Day in My Innsbruck Life by Benjamin Goldbach

It’s a strange but wonderful feeling to realize that Innsbruck has started to feel like home. A couple of weeks ago, I was learning how to order coffee without stumbling over my words—now I’m recognizing baristas who nod as I walk in. I’ve fallen into a rhythm here, one that’s slower, quieter, and more reflective than my usual pace back home. My days begin early … Continue reading Routine in the Alps: A Day in My Innsbruck Life by Benjamin Goldbach

Finding My Footing in the Heart of the Alps by Benjamin Goldbach

Three weeks ago, I stepped off the bus in Innsbruck unsure of what to expect. Since then, this Alpine city has quietly worked its way into my rhythm. As everyday passes and I become more familiar with the city, culture, and language, I’ve found myself learning not just about Austria, but how to truly live in it. One of the first things that struck me … Continue reading Finding My Footing in the Heart of the Alps by Benjamin Goldbach

What I Didn’t Expect to Learn While Studying Abroad by Mathieu Vincke

One of the first photos I took abroad was from a lookout over Nice. At the time, I had no idea how different I would feel by the end of the semester or what that photo would come to represent. It’s wild to think that I took it with no idea of the people I’d meet, the knowledge I’d gain, or how much I’d grow. … Continue reading What I Didn’t Expect to Learn While Studying Abroad by Mathieu Vincke