Off to Japan!

why nagoya, confronting challenge, and konbini こんにちは!Hello! Three weeks from today I officially landed in Japan and began my semester study abroad in Nagoya! Leading up to it, there was an endless list of to-do’s and to-buy’s. From buying the right power converter, to researching restaurant etiquette, to making multiple trips to the nearest consulate …

A letter to IES Santiago Spring 2023, Thank you.

As my time in Santiago reached its end, I found myself very sentimental.  Upon going to Chile, I had a lot of doubts and questions for myself. I wasn’t sure how I was going to make friends when naturally I am more of an introvert who only has a handful of very close friends. But …

Discovering Marilyn.

Spring 2023 participants: students and professors What can I expect from studying abroad?  Expect the unexpected. Go with an open mind. Have a goal or two to accomplish. Be willing to change your perspective and be surprised.  I knew that studying abroad, I would participate in a program that was well-suited for me, but I …

The Activity That Lives Rent Free in My Memories

Images of street art seen during walks in the city: What are some things to do while abroad? Would I get bored or will I see it all quickly?  You will definitely not get bored or see it all quickly. You will have a lot to explore and will find many things to do during …

Involvement and Immersion with the Local Community!

What are ways to be immersed in the local community? Can you be involved?  The answer to both questions is yes for my study abroad program. Right off the bat, the Spring 2023 students were introduced to “Club Chileno” during our orientation. Club Chileno were local university students who would plan activities, accompany us during …

An insight into the Health Studies Program!

So what is the health studies program?  As I’ve mentioned many times, I studied abroad with IES, specifically participating in their health studies program. I knew that if I got the chance to study abroad, then it would be somewhere in South America. I also wanted to go on a program that felt unique and …

Being a student abroad

So what are classes like abroad? What is the difference to the classrooms at Hope? How will I be able to manage everything that may come with studying abroad while also being a student?  To those who are thinking about studying abroad or preparing for their study abroad program, don’t worry – you can do …

Homestay decision led to a new family

When planning out my study abroad experience, the one question I would constantly be stuck on was, “Should I live with a homestay family or live in the apartment option that IES Santiago offered?” For some background context, at Hope residential life was a huge part of my experience and time while I was there. …

Coffee Culture in Italy

Although very popular in the States, coffee is entirely different in Italy. Forget flavored lattes (unless you want a cup of milk), frappucinos, and iced coffees, and dive into Italian coffee’s simplicity. Disclaimer: there are places in Milan where you can get an iced coffee (12oz coffee). A typical morning coffee order would consist of …

My Daily Italian Breakfast

I have attended my classes for about the entire semester, so I have fully adapted to the Italian breakfast lifestyle. Breakfast in Milan looks different than my typical breakfast in America. Every Monday and Wednesday, I have class at 9:00 am, and with the commute being so early, I typically don’t get a coffee or …