Friday, August 30, 2013

Unforgettable

By: Ariel Katrina Robertson, Hinckley Institute of Politics Internship in New Delhi, India



This past summer I Interned in New Delhi, India with a humanitarian organization called Maitri. ‘Maitri’ is a Sanskrit word that is interpreted across various cultures to mean unconditional love, kindness, and friendship. This organization is committed to facilitating citizenship rights, basic services, dignity, and respect for the most vulnerable populations in India. Working with them changed my life in so many ways as I worked on their various initiatives: assisting migrant workers, raising awareness and preventing violence against women, helping underprivileged communities such as widows in vrindavan and children from slums, HIV/STD awareness, and their homeless resource center.

Each time someone asks “How was India” I stumble trying to come up with the appropriate response. The truth? I can’t. It’s amazing how such a simple question requires such a loaded response. Put simply, it was unforgettable. This journey confronted me with numerous realities about the world, about the place, about my home and about myself. Although I was happy to return back home after my three month adventure, my eagerness to return derives from a new appreciation for what ‘home’ is and for an eagerness to live my life more fully.

I’ve never experienced or seen such stark contrast. There were days where I felt overwhelmed because I wasn’t able to see any solution to the frustrating and devastating issues that exist. Issues like violence against women, poverty, HIV/AIDS, and a government and culture that does not properly care for its most vulnerable populations- its children, its women and its elderly. At times I was bewildered and even disgusted as I was confronted with characteristics about myself that are incohesive with the type of person I want to be. Tears of frustration, sadness, confusion and shame have followed these more troublesome experiences.

Yes, there were hard days, but on the other end of the scope, these more negative aspects existed alongside beauty, enchantment, hope, faith, and above all love. India has some of the oldest cities with remnants of ancient worlds. Places and structures like McLeod Ganj, the Taj Mahal and the many other tombs, monasteries, temples and forts left me mesmerized and in awe. They transported me inside a different culture of another time and expanded my imagination and intellect. The many different cultures that exist in this chaotic country are rich and deep. I’ve been enlightened by the many different religious practices here, especially when I was fortunate enough to listen to the Dalai Lama and visit the Lotus temple where the beauty and positive aspects that exists among all faiths are stressed and valued.

Along with the many different places I visited and monuments I saw, I met and developed relationships with many different people who have truly opened my eyes and my heart. My admiration, gratitude and love are immeasurable for them, as they taught and did so much for me. Some of the best memories were during the many rickshaw rides and movie nights in our apartment laughing with some of the best girls I know. I have been fortunate enough to work for an organization that is creating lasting and impactful change. An organization that truly values all people, no matter their age, their gender, their race or their background. I am honored to have worked alongside these individuals, because they push forward through the wreckage, and the chaos. They do and they love. They love complete strangers and have taught me what practicing compassion truly entails as they sort through the devastating details of the endless tormenting and heart wrenching cases of abuse that come in. They continue because even when they are fatigued and overwhelmed they still believe the world to be a beautiful place. Some of them are survivors of the issues they now help others escape, and I can only hope to be as strong and inspiring one day.

Because of these individuals and these experiences I’ve learned so many things.

Researching violence against women in India and around the world combined with the individual cases and stories that make their way into Maitri’s golden doors each and every day has taught me just how prevalent of a problem this is. It is wrong that this is viewed and accepted as part of a culture. It is wrong that human beings are ostracized and belittled for reasons outside of their control and stripped of their own identity and dignity. I have learned that gender equality is not only necessary to alleviate poverty, but is an overall indication of global stability and health. From these women I have learned that the freedoms I have, to choose and design my own course through life, are luxuries.

I’ve learned the power that one individual has to create positive change. Whether it is by their example or sharing of their own stories where they have overcome abuse, poverty, illiteracy and sickness.

Lastly, I’ve learned even more that there are positive and negative elements in all cultures. I want to focus on those things that are good and work to be a positive engine towards change.

Where will I go from here?

I’m not certain what my future holds, but I will be forever grateful for the time I have spent here. This adventure has helped me discover more about myself than I could have ever imagined and lead me to make some huge decisions concerning my education and what career I would like to pursue.

I now know that it’s okay to be vulnerable and imperfect. I have an immense appreciation for the individuals in my life who love me unconditionally despite of my imperfections. To all those who have been apart of my Indian adventure, supporting and encouraging me from here and from home, I can’t even begin to thank you. You have helped me stand in moments of struggle and uncertainty.

The future is full of promise and adventure. I plan to move forward with strength, because I have been blessed enough to have the luxury to design my own path. To make my own mistakes. To make my own decisions. To live without fear. To be able to choose. To be able to love and to be loved in return. I know I will be strong, because I have to. I have to for those who do not realize their own strength yet and to show my gratitude for the life I am blessed enough to live.

Read more on Katrina's blog at katinindia.wordpress.com!

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Pleasant Surprises

By: Garrett Nord, Business Scholars in Paris and Munich

I was fortunate enough to join the Business Scholars on their learning abroad trip to Europe.  While Learning Abroad it was my pleasure to have several experiences I could have never imagined. We spent a day in various parts of Austria, and also spent a few days in Paris, France, and Munich, Germany.
Growing up in the United States, there are stereotypes of foreign countries; whether I experienced this from movies, cartoons, or stories, I had a preconceived idea of what life would be like. For example I thought France was a romantic country with scarves and fashion from the United States. I had also imagined that Germany had thick accents and bulky built people. I now know that you CANNOT judge a country without experiencing a part of their life, because my preconceived notions were far from correct!


In France the atmosphere is very different. I found it very interesting that a large portion of the population speaks English.

One may devote a lifetime paying great attention to the art museums, tourist attractions, ancient architecture built out of stone, and cobblestone roads; however, what I found caught my attention were the markets on the side of the streets.   There is a high amount of street traffic with kiosk-type stores of all kinds selling anything ranging from miniature Eiffel towers to crepes.

A common way to make money is to perform on the street. Street performers draw in all kinds of crowds. There was an act for every kind of person, people who looked like statues, instrumental, jazz, magic, impersonators, comedians, etc.  The act that drew my attention most was when we were walking back from the Eiffel tower. There was a gambling game that several men were playing. The tourist (of course) would need to guess which of three objects that the operator was mixing concealed an item (a cotton ball in my case) they needed to find.  I watched them play for quite some time, and moved on to the next game. After watching for several minutes, I was invited to play. I did not have enough money to bet luckily, as I later determined that there was no winner, because the operator cheated the tourist. The cotton ball was hidden regardless if the correct item was chosen! Hence learning to not street gamble for any large sum of money.


My favorite day in Germany was the day we saw the BMW museum. Through building friendships, having good laughs with fellow students, and being at the museum, this was one of the most fun experiences I have ever had.  Every BMW car including concept cars that have ever made are enclosed in this massive structure. Other items of great interest were the Rolls Royces, Rocket Engines, and the many BMW Street bikes.  I now want to join in owning one of the most prestigious brands in the world. This museum is far more interesting to me as it combines the classic styles of BMW’s next to the most recent high tech, newest technology available.

Austria was the most beautiful land I have ever seen. I felt like I was in a Harry Potter movie, with fog covering the endless, tall green mountains.  It was an amazing view as I looked from our boat to the wide river.
I enjoyed both France and Germany, and would love to spend more time there. I would especially like to see more in Austria. This trip has got me on board with new experiences and I want to keep traveling to areas I have yet to see. I wish I could have stayed longer, but am so glad I took the opportunity to participate on the learning abroad program. I made great friends, had unmatchable experiences, and had so much fun!

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Study Abroad in Tours, France

By: Connor Reese, Intensive French Language in Tours, France

I had the pleasure of spending 5 weeks this summer studying the French Language in the city of Tours, France. Looking back on the time I had, I would never hesitate promoting studying abroad and how amazing it is. It’s a perfect way to not only get college credit, but to really connect with a place like you never have before. I have vacationed to many places, but never before I had an experience so intimate where I’ve lived abroad and had both the struggles and the joys of adapting to a new culture.

So here some of the most noteworthy aspects of my time in France:











The People

In my opinion, the people you meet is the most rewarding part of studying abroad. Of all the memories I made, the ones with new friends are the most special to me. Studying in France allowed me to meet my host family (of course), other students from the U, international students in classes, and French locals. Being in a host family was definitely nerve racking at first, but they were quick to make me feel at home. Meeting students both from home and afar was great; everyone is there for the same reason so you have that in common with people right off the bat. From what I learned from speaking French with my host family and with other students even allowed me to make friends with French locals as well. When all was said and done, meeting people was my favorite part of this experience.



The Language

Don’t let being a beginner stop you from studying abroad. I had only one semester of French under my belt, yet in only 5 weeks my speaking confidence and vocabulary improved immensely. Three things helped me with the learning process:
1.      Talking with my host family: If you’re taking a language immersive program, your family likely doesn’t know/won’t ever speak English. Try your hardest to speak with them, even if you think you sound stupid.
2.      Practice with other students: You’re not alone; all the other students are there for the same reason. If you’re a beginner, confide in the expertise of students who know the language better. Most the time you’ll be speaking English with the others, but now and then making the effort to speak the language with your peers goes a long way.
3.      The classes: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Classes really helped me with the basics.


The Food

French food is amazing! My favorite meals were the ones my host mom made.  Wherever you go, definitely stretch outside your comfort zone with the food. It was part of the fun for me trying a rancid smelling morsel of cheese or ordering something on the menu I couldn’t quite translate. With that said, don’t give yourself too much guilt when your missing home and cave into eating at an American food chain (just don’t make a habit of it!).

The Places

Wherever you go, you are bound to see some incredible sights. Classes don’t restrict you’re time to really see the country! With my program we spent the first week exploring the different chateaus of the Loire Valley. The weekends were awesome too, I was able to take excursions to Mont St. Michel, La Rochelle, and Paris. Class time was fairly short, so there was plenty of time for us to sightsee around Tours or to just relax at our favorite bars and cafes. Wherever you go, study abroad is perfect for seeing the amazing sights your country has to offer.


Studying abroad is definitely an experience I will never forget. The people I met and the memories I made have had a big impact me. I loved the time I spent there, and if you are considering studying abroad, you won’t regret it!

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Head Over Heels for a Head Injury

By: Mary Neville, Greece from Minoan to Modern Times in Athens and the Greek Isles


I knew from my time on the mainland, that Greece was amazing. But tonight we were going to Crete, our first island. Nothing excited me more. I was going to be on my first ferry on the open ocean. We were going to explore the magnificent islands I had been dreaming of for months. By the port town of Piraus I took a really good long look at the boat. It was massive. This ferry was unique on our trip because it was an overnight ferry. We all had cabins to sleep in that had two bunk beds. As we boarded I began to feel the consistent rocking of the waves. My best friend Gabby and another friend Bryn were in a cabin with me. As I saw the sleeping arrangements my stomach dropped. I have a touch of claustrophobia, so seeing the teeny tiny beds cramped together in a teeny time room made me nervous and nauseous. I decided to take a top bunk because that is what I slept in for about seventeen years of my life and I thought it would make me feel more at ease and at home. The next few hours were shaky (literally) but I maintained a positive attitude and had fun with all of my friends.
Before we went to sleep, Bryn brought her laptop and the three of us fell asleep to a movie. All of a sudden I woke up disoriented and on the bottom bunk opposite of my own, which happened to be Bryn’s. I could not see anything in the dark, my head was throbbing, and Gabby and Bryn were saying things that I could not comprehend. The thing I noticed next was Gabby got up and put a warm towel on the back right hand side of my head. I looked around and saw Bryn’s sheets were wet and stained. It turns out that was my blood. As I began to realize that I fell from the top bunk and hit my head I panicked. I felt the back of my head and when I looked at my fingers they were red and bloody. I could not focus on anything else. Gabby shook me gently and I became aware that she was talking to me.
“Are you alright?” She asked. I tried to respond but I am not sure that what came out of my mouth were actual words.
She then looked at Bryn and said, “Go get Randy.” Bryn immediately took off to find our professor.
Moments later, Bryn returned with Randy. He, Gabby, Bryn and I went to the boat’s front desk and saw the ferry’s doctor. She examined my head, and came to the conclusion that I needed approximately one stitch. I was baffled. I had never needed stitches before, and I was in a foreign place. I was so worried. This was not at all what I had expected.
Knowing I could not change my fate, the doctor stopped the bleeding and we went back to our room to sleep. It did not come easy. But morning came as it always does, and our group was a buzz with last night’s drama. They were all really nice and caring. Randy, Gabby and another girl named Sarah, dropped our bags off at the hotel and went to a clinic for my stitches. Turns out I needed four! The Greek clinic was not all that different from American ones. The doctor was very kind and knowing that this was the first time I needed stitches, he made me feel at ease.
This slight bump in the road, did not even damper my experience abroad. It was unexpected and scary but it was an experience I learned a lot from. I found out I am tougher than I give myself credit for, and that I can take care of these things without my parents (even though I would have liked to have them there). I learned that no matter what happens, it is all about perspective. I could have let this mishap get me down, but I was in the most incredible place I have ever been, and I would not let anything ruin that. A positive attitude can change anything. I also learned how these people I had met a week and a half ago were now some of my best friends. They were there for me and cared deeply about my safety. I was so thankful to have met them and gone on this trip. I would do it again in a heartbeat. My Greek experience was amazing and just happened to include a medical emergency. I am head over heels for my head injury because I am head over heels for Greece.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Summer in Spain

By: Paige Peery, Intensive Spanish Language in Oviedo, Spain

After spending six weeks in the small town of Oviedo, Spain this summer, I can honestly say how much I have learned and gained from this experience. It was probably one of the most rewarding experiences that I have had and it helped me grow tremendously as an individual. That being said, I had a hard time committing to this study abroad. I was beyond nervous about living with a host family, trying new food, the classes I would be taking and being in a completely new surrounding. Through my experiences, my host family and the many friendships I made, I now know that I made the right decision to study abroad. It was an unforgettable experience that I will be talking about for the rest of my life.



My Host Family
This was the single most nerve-racking aspect of the entire study abroad experience for me. The idea of sleeping in someone else’s home (who very likely doesn’t speak English) seemed absurd. However, my host family was absolutely amazing and what they offered me through the authentic Spanish culture, food, daily life and hospitality was irreplaceable. I had a host mom and a host dad, as well as an eight-year-old host brother. They were very welcoming and wanted to learn as much about me and where I come from as I did about Spain and the Spanish language. My host mom cooked excellent food and always gave me more than enough food. She also took me to the spa! I have to say that living with a host family was a very rewarding experience that I could not have gotten if I had lived in a student housing situation.

Daily Life
This is something I wanted to share because it was my biggest question before I headed to Spain. What will I actually be doing there? Well, in my program we had class for a few hours each day. After class we would return home for a meal and siesta with our new Spanish families. Then the rest of the day was ours. We would frequently visit the mall, the beach, a museum or just walk around the old part of town. By the end of two or three weeks, I felt very comfortable with the town of Oviedo. I really miss those afternoons in Spain.

The Language
When I boarded the plane from the United States to Spain I did not know very much Spanish. I was so nervous about being able to communicate. Although it was difficult, I progressed more with my Spanish abilities in six weeks than I ever thought possible. By the time I left Oviedo I felt comfortable speaking Spanish with a native speaker. I felt confident and finally felt like becoming fluent in a second language was something I could achieve.




Overall, I had an amazing study abroad experience. It opened my eyes to a whole different culture and way of living. I learned so much about the Spanish language, the culture of Spain, the history of Europe and most of all, myself. I can’t wait for the day I get to go back and visit again!

Friday, August 16, 2013

Interharmony Music Festival: Tuscany

By: Jelena Cingara

I spent two weeks in July – from July 16-28, 2013 in Arcidosso, Tuscany at an international music festival called “Interharmony”.  I had an amazing time, both professionally and personally. I am currently a DMA in piano performance at The University of Utah School of Music in my 2nd year, and
I attended the festival for more international performing experience. The University of Utah gave me a scholarship and I was so happy about that !

            I went along with my piano professor, Dr. Vedrana Subotic as well as a few other pianists and some string players from my school. I am originally from Europe, but I haven't visited it for over six years, so this was an amazing experience for me. The hotel that we stayed at was located in the medieval town of Arcidosso, in Tuscany. Everyone knows that Tuscany is one of the most beautiful parts of the world – with its nature, sunflower fields, hay stacks;), so many different colors of grass and fields, and the Mediterranean sea just one hour from where we were staying. The hotel where we stayed was right in the middle of all the beauties of nature, with a swimming pool, spa, and horseback-riding just next door! It was like a resort, and perfect place to relax and enjoy beautiful music – both hearing wise, and creating – wise! Some of the piano practice rooms were located in the hotel, and some in the downtown of Arcidosso. Our festival consisted of 4-5 piano lessons as well as 4-5 chamber music coaching where I got to play with a clarinetist from Michigan State University and a violinist from China! - so international! Along with the coaching, I had three performances – one of a solo piece that I played,  the first movement of Beethoven op.111 – his last sonata, which went successfully. I also had two performances with my trio, which also went great. The concerts from the festival were being held every night, in churches in Arcidosso, by the faculty members as well as students, where the locals as well as the festival participants would attend. The festival had at least 300-400 people attending – students, professors, and even children from all around the world – USA, Europe, China, etc. When we weren't playing music, we would go swimming in the swimming pool, to the spa, or visit the surrounding cities! One day we spent going to see the leaning tower of Pisa, which was about a two hour car ride - it was an amazing experience. My cousin told me that this tower is probably going to fall in the next few years! The next city that we visited was Florence – one of the most beautiful cities that I have ever been in, where we saw the Uffizi museum with amazing renaissance art by some of the world's most famous artists, churches full of paintings and frescoes, shopped in amazing Italian fashion stores -everyone knows that Italy's fashion is amongst the best in the world! We also visited the city of Sienna, where we climbed atop a 500 stair tower, to see the gorgeous view of the whole city, and explored the churches, domes etc of the city. One day the festival took us to the Mediterranean sea and the town called Porto St. Stefano,  where after six years I got to swim in the sea! Ahhaa This was one of the most beautiful days, and soothing experiences that I experienced in a long time. Altogether, it was one of the best musical/vacation experiences that I have ever had in my life, and very enriching and creative! I want to go back to Europe again next year to another music festival – perhaps France, and have caught the travel – bug:).

Here are some pictures of me, and my group in Tuscany! Thank you  U of Utah for helping me with this opportunity!

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

Sienna--view from the Bell Tower

Our group from Utah in Pisa

One of my Beethoven op. 111 performances in the old church in Arcidosso

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Amsterdam Experiences

By: Alex Grobstein, Universiteit van Amsterdam, Full Year 2011-2012

 As I look back on the year I spent studying in Amsterdam one thing remains clear, it was the most rewarding experience of my life. This is not an endorsement of a University study abroad program nor is it a condemnation. The essential elements of these programs are what provide for such an opportunity for growth and joy. Thus, the independence of living alone, living in and traveling in a foreign country, and interacting with other international students create the basis for an unforgettable experience. These elements force a person to think, learn, and do as they have likely never done before. Moreover, these elements revive a person's soul and spirit as their senses are reawakened.
                These elements are realized through experience and thus I thought it important to include some experiences of my own. As this blog is limited in its length and depth I would like to highlight 5 places/moments during my stay in Amsterdam.

1) Queen's Day
                Queen's Day is a city-wide/country-wide party throughout the Netherlands. The party celebrates the birth of the Dutch queen Beautrix. To commemorate this occasion the Dutch businesses shut down and people fill the streets dressed in orange. As the main celebration occurs in Amsterdam, the city becomes a sea of orange. I have been to bars and I have been to clubs but I have never in my life seen a whole city turn into a grand club/bar. People fill the streets with friends drinking beer and listening to the numerous bands that play throughout the Amsterdam streets. A wonder of Queen's Day is how, on this day, the weather miraculously turns from its usual overcast gloom to clear skies and sun; number of natives told me that this is an annual occurrence as well. If you'd like to see an once-in-a-lifetime celebration then do not miss Queen's Day on April 30th!


2) Frozen Canals
                During my stay in Amsterdam the famous canals of Amsterdam froze over. This, apparently, is not an annual occurrence like Queen's Day sun and shine. After seeing the life that emerges on the frozen 17th-century canals I was immediately grateful that I could be in the city on such a year. Kids and parents were ice skating and kicking soccer balls on the frozen surface while make-shift hot wine stands were set up by local businesses. Even walking on the frozen surface provided a new and interesting view of Amsterdam’s canal houses. Moreover, the exhilaration from standing on the ice was enough to keep my senses vibrant.

3) Uilenstede Parties
                Uilenstede is the name of my student dorm complex where I lived in Amsterdam. This complex, and in particular, my building (Green Tower), hosted several student-held kitchen parties. People would be invited via facebook, word of mouth, or they would just walk in when they heard the music or laughter. The beauty of these parties was the attendees and the space. The patrons always consisted of people from a multitude of countries from, normally, every continent in the world. Thus, conversations would be lively as different viewpoints, ideas and cultures were constantly meshing. The patrons also frequently brought liquor or food from their native countries which made the cultural exchange even more authentic. Lastly, the parties took place in a small space, normally a group kitchen. With such close corridors people were forced to interact and, in turn, the parties became much livelier. Through these parties I became friends with people from every part of the world and, today, think of them as some of the most interesting and lively people I have ever met.

4) Biking
                Amsterdam is famous for its bikes, and for good reason. The urban and natural landscape throughout the Netherlands has been structured to accommodate cyclists. Combine this with the flat landscape of the Netherlands and one can easily see why bikes are so popular and numerous throughout the Amsterdam. Biking through the historic, canal-filled streets of Amsterdam made me fill like a kid again. I was biking (an activity I hadn't embraced since I was little) while looking at buildings and structures as old as the castles that filled the dreams of my youth. Moreover, biking brings you closer to the natural environment as you are spending more time breathing the natural Low Country air. The increased activity also fermented in my soul as I felt more youthful and alive in the world around me. Biking, then, is not only a means of transport in the Netherlands but a leisure activity which is sure to bring smiles to those who engage it.

5) Tulips
                I was riding my bike with a Dutch friend when I turned my head to see a field of red, then orange, then purple. It looked as though the grass had been dyed, and in turn, it threw my senses into a whirlwind. Of course, these were the famed tulip fields of the Netherlands. The rainbow of colors spreads acre after acre while your mind attempts to comprehend the sheer mass of flowers and the sudden changes of colors. I biked through the fields and took advantage of the prime photography moments these fields provide. The pictures and memories of the fields will remain with me forever and I would highly recommend them as top 'bucket-list' item.

After reviewing these items I hope it becomes transparent in how living abroad can alter one's life through new experiences and interactions. If you are reading this and considering doing a study abroad, do it, and go for as long as you can. I don't know anyone who has ever regretted it, including myself.