Overcoming Language Barriers

Overcoming Language Barriers

One of the things I was most excited about was hearing another language constantly. Since I minored in French, I was ready to learn all I could through immersion and constant practice. I didn’t get as much practice as I would have liked, but I was still challenged in...
How to Prepare for 3 Countries in 3 Weeks

How to Prepare for 3 Countries in 3 Weeks

This summer, I participated in a study and travel program that took me to three different countries, where I visited a total of seven cities. It was one of the most exciting experiences I have ever had, but living out of my suitcase and constantly moving from place to...
New Traveling Experiences

New Traveling Experiences

Although I am not new to traveling, I have never had to travel as long and as far as I did for this trip. I also experience motion sickness, so I’m not a fan of planes, especially longer flights. Because I know these things about myself, I came prepared with...
My First Weekend in the UK (UA in Oxford)

My First Weekend in the UK (UA in Oxford)

After a loooong flight and a few days adjusting to the new environment, I spent my first weekend in the UK in London. London was certainly much a much different environment than Oxford, where my classes were. First of all, the sheer size of the city really stood out...
Goodbye Norway; I Miss the Small Things

Goodbye Norway; I Miss the Small Things

As I conclude my life-changing time, I can’t help but compare everything in Norway to its counterparts in the USA. Every step I take in my home country reminds me of those cobblestone streets so some weird way....
The Return

The Return

Now that I’m back home I have mixed feelings. Once I arrived back to the airport I was relieved because I was finally home. I missed sleeping in my own bed, but I also miss visiting all the different countries. I also will miss all the friends I have made in this trip...
An Unforgettable Afternoon Meeting Elephants in Laos!

An Unforgettable Afternoon Meeting Elephants in Laos!

During the UA in Asia program, we had the opportunity to visit Laos, a beautiful country located in Southeast Asia known for its natural landscapes. During our journey we stayed in the city of Luang Prabang, which was one the most scenic and memorable destinations we...
The Highlight of Cambodia!

The Highlight of Cambodia!

During the UA in Asia program, we had the opportunity to visit the beautiful and culturally rich country of Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia. Among incredible landscapes and beautiful temples, Cambodia became one of the highlights of our journey throughout the...
Friends around the World

Friends around the World

After spending 2 and a half weeks studying abroad in Belize, I was feeling so many emotions upon my return. On my flight back home, the first thing that went through my mind was I can’t believe it’s over. Time seemed to pass differently when I was in Belize. Every day...
Lost Luggage

Lost Luggage

06-18-2025 I hope that this blog post can reach someone pre-departure, however unlikely, and sooth their anxieties about everything that can (and will) go wrong during international travel. My study abroad program in Florence, Italy also happened to be my first time...
While Abroad

While Abroad

I’ve been having the best time of my life while studying abroad in Europe. From trying different foods to exploring ruins in various cities and countries, I’ve learned a great deal and feel like I’ve been deeply immersed in the culture. Our program is a...
Reflecting on the Past, Present, and Future

Reflecting on the Past, Present, and Future

Now that it is May and the weather is starting to warm up, people are beginning to lie down in the green areas, which has allowed me to sit down and reflect on the time I have had at the University of Birmingham, as well as the time I have left. I have about two...
Weekend Trip to Stockholm

Weekend Trip to Stockholm

After a week of studying and exploring Copenhagen, we were really enjoying our experience. We got to walk around the city numerous times and were beginning to get a feel for the city. Just as the first week was about to close, we boarded a train for Stockholm. The...
Advice for Future Students Studying Abroad in Spain

Advice for Future Students Studying Abroad in Spain

Studying abroad is an exciting and transformative experience, but preparation is key to making the most of it. If you’re planning to join the UA in Europe: Globalization of Sport program, here are a few tips to help you have a smooth journey. First, embrace the...
Moments in Malaysia – Part One of Asia Trip

Moments in Malaysia – Part One of Asia Trip

As I arrived in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, I felt both nervous and excited for the next two weeks. The first leg of the trip I would be spending my time in Malaysia. I flew in a day early so that I could get settled and adjust to the new time zone. My...
UA in New Zealand 2/3

UA in New Zealand 2/3

What is an experience? If I were Dr. Billy Osteen, specializing in getting the “biggest bang for your buck” in life’s experiences, I might lead a life full of experiences, diverse and many, and know how to dig into the best parts of them. But, sitting here after the...
When in Greece

When in Greece

I have had a great time experiencing the culture and visiting the different historical landmarks. For my internship, I have been working with Masters students, Panagiota and Pantelis, from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. We have been working to craft an Audio...