I was originally skeptical about going to Portugal for three weeks, but since I have been here, it is easily the best experience of my entire life. I have made many friends, tried many cuisines, and learned a beautiful language surrounded by my classmates. Here are some photos from my weeks in Porto with little details about each.
This photo is from a place called the Palacio Da Bolsa! we had our opening dinner here. I dressed up for the event and I am glad I did! I called this room the room of gold because of the ornate gold detailing from floor to ceiling. This picture cannot even do the room justice. I definitely recommend studying abroad because it allows you to experience castles and places that seem to only be in fairytales.
My professor was absolutely incredible on this trip. Each week he would provide my classmates and I with different excursions. The one below was a bridge climb. Yes, you heard me right, I climbed a bridge over the Duoro River. I am not afraid of heights, and I love adventures, but even this had my legs shaking a little. However, all my classmates were right there climbing with me, so I got to spend this time doing something new with my friends. I was so proud of myself after because I participated in something that I never thought I was capable of. Studying abroad is all about stepping outside your comfort zone, having new experiences, and trying new things.
This is me and one of my teammates Jensen! In this photo, he and I were in a workshop for designing our business product! He is from Taiwan! The team that I worked with at the European Innovation Academy hailed from all over the world. I am from the US, one of my teammates is from Canada, another is from China, one is from Portugal, and one is from Taiwan. Having a multicultural team allowed me to connect with my major and my love for learning even more. I got to learn how the world works in other countries, nd even dive into business practices that are common in other places. I was able to experience first hand the differences In business ideas from my teammates, mentors, and peers!
This next photo was on the first day of the program. I was nervous about starting a program in a new place for three weeks, but my time in Portugal was the most transformative period of my life. I have made so many friends from my school and from around the world that I will continue to stay in touch with them.
Studying abroad is one of the best things you can do. I am so sad that my program is coming to an end and I definitely want to go abroad again. My advice is it is okay to be uncomfortable at first. I was in a country where I knew a little bit of the language, but I was with people that I did not know very well. But I am ending the trip with lifelong friends and connections from around the world. Be brave, take the first step, and change your life for the better. Roll Tide!