I chose to study abroad because I have always fantasized about traveling Europe. I have never been to Europe, but my mom studied abroad when she was in college and has told me so many wonderful stories about her experience, thus I have always longed for the same fairy-tale experience. I understand that it will be challenging in many ways, but I am incredibly excited to get immersed within a different culture, and explore a brand new continent.

I go to Baylor University in Waco, Texas but am from the northern suburbs of Chicago. My major is Sports, Sponsorship, and Sales- which is a business major intending to sell for professional sports teams.  As my major implies, I love sports and being active. I’m always running, working out, playing sports, you name it. I also love cooking and exploring new places. I’m also very involved with my church at home and at school, so I’m looking forward to visiting other churches, and maybe even seeing the Pope!

There are many, many things I’m excited about studying abroad. However, I think the thing I’m most excited for is traveling throughout Europe. There are so many amazing places that I cannot wait to explore, different foods to eat, and cultures to experience. Not to mention the amazing scenery that I’ll encounter.

The thing I’m most nervous about studying abroad is the culture shock I’ll experience. Everything will be so foreign and new to me, I know it will definitely affect me. I’m just hoping it won’t be very bad!

1. Try something new at least three times a week- whether it be traveling, eating new things, or anything else.
2. Do everything I possibly can (travel, eat great food, ect.) while still remaining in my budget.
3. Learning about and appreciating the different cultures where I travel without an automatic American judgment to it being right or wrong.
4. (Sorry- I couldn’t help having a fourth!) Explore different churches and the way communities and countries worship.