The things that I have discovered “below the surface” from studying in Argentina I have been able to get a better understanding of the history of Argentina and the social, political and economic strife that this country has been going through for decade and ow it has shaped the country. The things that surprised me…
A Home Away from the States
Maynooth is a very small town (or in Ireland’s case a very large town). And if you don’t believe me, it was awarded the “Best Kept Award for Large Towns.” It has about two streets that are lined with small shops and eateries. There are three bus stops and I could walk the way from…
Farewell New Zealand
Kia ora! I can’t believe this is the last time I will be posting from New Zealand! I have loved my time here so much, even with life’s typical ups and downs, and am so excited to be back home with my family friends. I guess just good vibes all around. I got pretty involved…
Traveling around Europe
As I settle back into my little flat in London, I have taken the time to reflect on my fall break and the experiences I have had. I was lucky enough to visit a bunch of places in Italy and Spain. Here are a few tips I have learned while traveling around for Europe for…
Integrating into my community
Integrating into a community can be hard at the beginning but after awhile it becomes easier. In order for me to successfully integrate in Moroccan communities, it was important that I knew Morocco’s culture. Culture is a way of life of a particular people group. It determines what is right or wrong, acceptable or unacceptable,…
Working with Migrants
Hey! I hope all is well with you. Morocco has been a great experience. Learning a lot about the culture, the language, and the history of Morocco. Two months down, two more to go. I had many reasons to study in Morocco. One was the possibility to come to an African country. The other was to…
Travel Essentials?
Halfway through my semester abroad I’ve come to the realization that there are a small number of things that are crucial to one’s survival. While it’s not the material nor the substantial, it consists more of the interpersonal. Adaptability has become the core concept of my identity abroad. As I grow more comfortable in Roman…
Mid-Term Update: Fall Break abroad
This past week was Fall break, or the much anticipated week long break in the semester following mid term exams. I was lucky enough to get beautiful weather and hop across Europe with ease to Barcelona and Mallorca thanks to RyanAir and my european citizenship. Once I again I was able to jump into yet…
Northern vs. ‘Southern’ Ireland
Last weekend, I was able to travel to Northern Ireland, a different country on the same island. I simply boarded a train in Dublin and arrived in Belfast two hours later. No one checked my passport or even a photo ID. Yet, when I stepped off the platform I was in another country (Northern Ireland…
How to Cope with Homesick
This is my seventh year abroad, I don’t feel homesick as often as the first time when I left my country. I still miss home sometimes, especially during traditional Chinese holidays. However, after all these years, I have learned multiple ways to deal with homesickness. My first coping method: Eat food Food can bring so much pleasure…