Student Spotlight: Lauren Stuart

Lauren Discusses the Academic Benefits Associated with Studying Abroad

 

When Lauren decided she wanted to spend her entire freshman year abroad at the age of 18, she never anticipated how much of an impact the experience would have on her future. Living and studying in Panama, Republic of Panama and Valencia, Spain with FSU exposed her to a life of adventure, new friendships, and a different outlook on her field of study. “I always knew I wanted to do something in Meteorology, but never had a specific branch in mind.”

 

While in Panama, Lauren decided to enroll in International Affairs and Environmental Problems and Economic Development. The International Affairs course prompted Lauren to take scientific concepts and look at them from different perspectives. Her final project entailed analyzing climate change using various international perspectives. The Environmental Problems and Economic Development course focused primarily on current environmental problems Panama faced. “The knowledge gained through those classes helped me discover a hidden desire to study the societal impacts of weather and climate in developing countries,” she says.

 

Now, as a junior, Lauren continues to see the benefits of studying abroad. As a Meteorology and Geography major, she recently won a scholarship from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. She credits the selection to her essay about her abroad experience. “I believe my time abroad helped me stand out as an applicant. It helped me grow as a student, global citizen, and future researcher. I contribute the nine months I spent in Panama and three months I spent in Valencia to the numerous opportunities I have received while back in the states.” One of those opportunities includes joining the International Programs Student Recruiter team at FSU. She looks forward to working on academic research and completing a Honors in the Major Thesis while sharing her passion for international travel with fellow students during her remaining years at Florida State.

This photo was taken of Lauren while she was studying in Panama

2014 FSUIP Video Contest Winners

      Click on the Images Below to be Directed to the Video
Click here to view all submissions

 

Grand Prize Winner: Kiara Talancha
London Program

Image source: playgroundlondontown.wordpress.com


       Finalist: Samantha Sicard
                Israel Program                                                      Finalist: April Blackwill 

Image source: tourist-destinations.com

                                   Panama Program


Image source: totalassetmanagement.net
 

6 Tips to Prepare Future Study Abroad Students

By: Olivia Bibilonia

The following is a list of things to keep in mind before studying abroad based on my study abroad experience in Paris, France.

 

Pack light

I can not stress this enough. When you get to your study abroad site you will probably have to take the luggage with you from the airport to where you have to be and this can be very uncomfortable with lots of suitcases. Especially in Paris where many metro stops do not have escalators nor elevators.

Check the weather

This sounds like such an obvious thing but checking the weather is important for packing. In my program, many people forgot to bring an umbrella to Paris and it rained for a week. Umbrellas and raincoats are something I recommend for Europe's ever changing weather.

Realize you are no longer in the United States
Culture shock is something that is bond to happen. Europeans are very different from Americans and when studying abroad we should appreciate how other people live instead of focusing on the negatives.

Traveling within Europe is not as cheap as you might think

Before studying abroad I had plans to travel a lot more than I was realistically able to. Traveling within Europe during the summer by train or plane can become very expensive especially since the Euro is worth more than the dollar. Plan and book in advance to save some money.

Get a Bank of America debit card and ask for a traveler's card

When studying abroad in Paris I was able to take out money from a bank affiliated with Bank of America. When doing that I was only charged a 3% conversion fee and did not have to pay to withdraw my money from that bank. This can only be done if you have a Bank of America debit card. Bank of America also has a traveler's card that gives you points for spending abroad which can be beneficial since one is sure to spend abroad but you're getting rewarded to do so.

Have fun and enjoy

Studying abroad for me was an amazing experience that I will never forget. Although I had school 5 times a week and had to wake up very early, I had so much fun every single day. I enjoyed having French breakfast everyday and submersing myself in the French culture.

I hope this list helps you out before setting out on your amazing studying abroad experiences!

GO NOLES!

Why I Love This City

By Jasmine Crane

The summer that changed my life involved a week-long trip to the one and only City of Lights that included an extensive tour of all that is Paris that left me obsessed and begging for more.  When the week was up, I remember leaving with such a heavy heart, thinking that I might never get to venture back to this side of the world again and be with my city.  But, as life would have it, two years later I finally got another opportunity to visit Paris again!  After some hard work and serious planning, I found myself on a plane headed for Charles de Gaulle airport for my now month-long stay in the summer where I would be soaking up every bit of French culture that was possible.  And you better believe I was ready to take on that city one baguette at a time. 

So, you’re probably wondering, as most people I know do, why I was so unbelievably excited to be in Paris!  I mean, once you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower, eaten some bread, and ridden the metro, you’ve seen it all, right?  Well my friends, that is simply not true.  There is so much more to Paris than just what you see on the postcards.  While the famous monuments and idea of glamour are what draw most people into the city, the rich culture, decadent foods, and simple beauty are usually what make people to want to stay. 



I know this might sound crazy, but I would honestly go back to Paris simply for the food itself.  And I’m not talking about the cuisine that you might find in those tourist cafes on Rue de Rivoli or by La Tour Eiffel.  I’m talking about the unknown gems that lie all around the city, the ones that house the best meals and drinks you’ll only hope to find.  Taking a chance on a cafe, restaurant, brasserie, or boulangerie that you have never heard of while in Paris will be one of the best decisions you make.  You will always be able to find food that is uniquely French in places where the French themselves go to eat!

 

To me, Paris remains so enticing because it is home to some important small parts of its culture. For example, on the way to the Latin Quarter, you might find the old apartment where Ernest Hemingway used to live or the building that Sigmund Freud had once inhabited in the 1800s.  If you find yourself in Montmartre on your way up to see the breathtaking Sacré Cœur, you could wander through the streets behind the church and learn about the famous artists that used to work there, marvel at the beautifully handcrafted buildings, or even visit the Musée de Montmartre and walk through the Jardins Renoir.  And afterwards, if you are lucky, you might find a wonderful fondue place down and around the corner that has a special way of serving you wine!            

                                                

   

Whatever you decide to do while in Paris, I guarantee that you will always be able to find little gems hidden around the city that you can call “mine.”  I still believe the fun part lies in being able to find them all.  Guess you’ll just have to keep visiting this wonderful city until you do! 

 

 

 

Hidden Treasures in Valencia: Miguelete Tower

By Christina Reynolds

Every day is a new adventure when exploring the streets of Valencia. You may find yourself discovering a new cafe or admiring a hidden work of graffiti, but if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can find yourself walking 207 steps up for the best view of Valencia the city has to offer.

Located in the heart of the Plaza de la Reina, the Miguelete tower is the bell tower attached to the Cathedral of Valencia, and currently stands as Valencia’s tallest religious structure. From the outside, the gothic style building does not seem like too much of a journey to the top. Yet once inside the narrow walkway, the winding, spiral staircase may feel like it’s never ending. Yes, it felt claustrophobic at times. And yes, you may have a slight panic attack when other groups of people are heading in the opposite direction as you. But once that streak of light comes into sight that reminds you how close you are to the outside, it will all be worth it.

The bell tower stretches out to an octangular terrace at the top, providing a 360 degree view of everything Valencia has to offer. On one side, you’re looking at the historic Torres de Serranos and the area of your current home, and further in the distance, a look at the famous Cuidad de Artes y Ciencias. Embrace your inner tourist and take as many pictures as possible, even if your camera can’t quite encompass the experience of being up there.

So go ahead and enjoy the breeze, take in the scenery, and bask in the beauty that Valencia has to offer. The trek might take a toll on your legs, but I promise, the view is worth the climb.

Hidden Treasures in Valencia: Bioparc Valencia

By Christina Reynolds

It’s the same feeling every time you’re visiting a zoo. You inch as close to the fence as possible, stretching to attempt to touch each animal as they stare back at you with a face that only makes your heart melt. Imagine a controlled environment in which you were a part of the animal’s habitat, and not vice versa? Welcome to Bioparc Valencia.

Focusing on their concept of zoo-immersion, Bioparc Valencia differs from your average zoo. They pride themselves on immersing the visitor in the habitat of the animal, allowing for an open environment and very natural feel. Although visitors are still an arms distance from the animals, their homes are easily adaptable and provide striking similarities to their original ecosystems. Bioparc Valencia actively participates in the conservation of a species ecosystem, believing that preserving its habitat is essential to saving its species. Additionally, each habitat provides in depth information and interactive teaching techniques regarding its animals, not only assisting visitors with an exciting experience, but an educational one as well.

Get a feel for the African savannah, equatorial forest, Madagascar and the African wetlands all in the center of Valencia. From zebras and hyenas to giraffes and gorillas, the park offers visitors a multitude of animals to visit. For only a two and a half mile journey from the study center and only 24 euro for admission, you can enjoy the day feeling like you’ve embarked on an African safari.

Want to get a little closer? Here’s a friendly tip: giraffes love to eat the grass surrounding their habitat. Grab a handful and reach as far as you can, and if you’re lucky, maybe one will snack on what you’re offering!

Hey, Where's My Stuff?

By: Christina Reynolds

It can happen to the best of us. One minute you’re walking through a crowded area, taking in the thriving lifestyle around you, and the next something is missing from your bag. Pickpocketing continues to be prevalent amongst major cities throughout Europe, specifically in Spain. With Spain’s unemployment rate hitting a excruciating 24.6% this past June, people are finding more and more ways to target tourists for their personal belongings. Even worse, without an inkling of their knowledge that it is even happening.

Pickpocketing has become less of a risky move and more of a sport for many, leading people to get creative with their sneaky tactics. After personally falling into the category of tourists abroad who have been stolen from, as my iphone now rests in a stranger’s hands, I am aware of the moves I was so oblivious to before. But don’t fret; here are a few tips to help you avoid these sneaky people, and keep your iphone in good hands!

1. Keep your bag close to you and zipped at all times

This is where I went wrong. My bag was always close to my side, yet the zipped up part occasionally became hard to remember. Especially in crowded areas, always keep your bag zipped. This makes it more difficult for someone to hack into, and gives you more time to react if it does in fact happen.

2. Avoid diversions

While it is in a traveler’s nature to want to see and explore every possible sight, people may take advantage of this curiosity. Many methods are used to distract you, leaving your belongings in a more vulnerable state. When I had traveled to Paris for the weekend, I had heard a rumor that women would throw baby dolls wrapped in a blanket at tourists, prompting them to catch their “child” so they could steal your purse! Thankfully I never had to experience that kind of trickery, but it just goes to show how in depth their planning could be.

3. Stay away from passageways and confined areas

Hovering near the doorway of the subway or train may give pickpocketers an easier escape route if they do choose to attempt this. If found in a situation such as this, don’t stress. The more aware you are of your belongings, and the more crowded it is in the confined space, the more difficult it will be for the pickpocketer to get away with their potential motive.

4. Don’t keep personal items in your back pocket

Especially for guys, personal items being held in your back pocket is a major target for pickpocketers. While guys tend to check if their wallet or phone is still in place, people pick up on these motions, signifying for an easy snatch once they get the chance. Keep these belongings in your front pocket, or in an area less noticeable to potential thieves.

Whether in the middle of the day or in the dead of night, pickpocketing can happen to anyone. The idea of losing yourself in the city can quickly transform to losing your valuables in the city, but by simply keeping a watch on your stuff and your surroundings, you’ll be going back to America scratch free in no time.

 

Wanderlust

By Christina Reynolds

Wanderlust

[won-der-luhst] noun: a strong, innate desire to rove or travel about.

 

The urge may not be there upon leaving America, but it will definitely be tugging at you left and right once abroad. Once given a little taste of the unknown, the travel bug gets to you, leaving you craving it more and more. Thankfully the fantasy of exploring each and every country can soon become a reality during your time abroad.

 While studying abroad in Valencia, there were many opportunities to venture to other countries. With the class schedule ending on Thursdays, students always had a three day weekend to take off to wherever their hearts desired. Besides the planned program trips to either Madrid or Barcelona, there were many weekends available to see a different part of Spain, or more commonly a completely different country!

Many students took advantage of their time off from class and made group trips to a multitude of exotic places. With the Mediterranean views of Portugal being a short plane ride away, students made the trek to Lisbon to discover a side of Spain not offered around Valencia. Additionally, with France being the next closest country, many spent their weekend under the Eiffel Tower in Paris. While the proximity of these countries made traveling a little easier, distance did not stop students from exploring other parts of Europe. Amsterdam and Ireland also seemed to be popular destinations to travel to. Being about a mere three hour flight to either location, it goes to show just how easy it can be to travel around the continent from the home base in Valencia.

While the urge to explore each and every place may be strong, the only issue that stands is how to get over there. Although students may shy away from the idea of flying because of the expenses, there are many European airlines with incredibly affordable rates, like Ryanair. Being one of the cheapest airlines throughout Europe, it is no wonder it is one of the most popular ways to travel for students abroad. But be careful; one of the cheapest can quickly turn into one of the sneakiest if you’re not paying attention!

A few tips on Ryanair:

Make sure to print out your boarding pass ahead of time

I’m not exactly sure why printing out a boarding pass is such a hassle for the airline attendants, but apparently it is, and will cost you all of 50 euro as well.

Try to do carry on

Checking your bags is another 50 euro, and not worth the risk of losing.
 
Make sure you measure the size of your carry one bag before taking it
Ryanair is a stickler for oversized bags, to the point of measuring your bag for you prior to boarding your flight. The worst thing that could happen is your poor suitcase not fitting in the size measurer, and their insistence on you checking that bag. My advice? Bring a duffel bag. It’s moldable enough to fit their size standards, regardless of how full it is.

“Don’t Miss” Location in London: Brighton

By Viviana Yepes

 It was a late Friday evening and after returning from a relaxing night out at our favorite local pub, I decided to look at the map and pick a random city to explore the following day. My finger landed on the city of Brighton, and boy, was I happy it did. I gathered a group of five friends (shout out to Cecilio, Ally, Amy, Jackie and Brendan!) bought us all some train tickets, and we were off the following Saturday morning at about 9AM taking the train from St Pancras Station. The trip only took about an hour and a half, so we passed the time by talking about what we wanted to do while looking at the beautiful English countryside. Arriving and stepping out of the train station we set our sights on the ocean shore and walked towards it, with no set plan as to what we would do today. I was absolutely determined to at least touch the waters of the English Channel (keep in mind it was still winter and the water was unquestionably freezing). Once at the beach the view was spectacular. We were all so amazed by the stony beach and endless horizon that we were caught off guard and completely soaked by a wave, a freezing but totally hilarious experience!

We decided to stay away from the shore at that point and made our way over to the Brighton Pier, all the while walking near the beach front containing shops and pubs. On our way, we came across a carousel and of course, I had to take a spin. As we walked onto the beautiful Brighton Pier, I had realized I had found my perfect place: the beach, amusement park rides, a world famous fish & chips pub, and loud music. COULD I ASK FOR MORE?! We spent the rest of the day riding rickety roller coasters, dizzy spinning rides, playing in a dark arcade in the middle of the pier (Ally actually won a toy from the claw games! Who does that?!), taking pictures with face-in-the-hole murals, and I ate the best fish & chips of my whole London semester for lunch.  

My friend Amy and I even got stuck at the very top of a loop de loop ride and as they brought us down, we got to see the sunset from the highest point on the Brighton Pier. We finished the day off buying souvenirs and talking to locals telling us to check out the bands playing at some local pubs. We were all exhausted as we got on the train back home and reminisced about all the laughs and fun we had that day. I definitely recommend Brighton to anyone at the London program looking for a fun-filled day and totally different experience from the big city life!

Studying Abroad in London

By Kiara Talancha

    If somebody had told me back in high school that I was going to spend my first semester of college in London and would have the best time of my life, I would have laughed in their face and moonwalk away from them, screaming that they are crazy. But no, they were not crazy, and yes I had the best time of my life.

            I didn’t know much about London, which sounds bad on paper, but I think that was what made my experience better. I was going completely blind to a place I never faced before. People talk about how your first semester of college is what makes you an adult by dealing with a roommate, picking your own classes, and making new friends. Being in London, all of those obstacles I had to deal with were hard yet easy.

           
            The study centre is in the heart of London, literally. If you see the Tube Station map, the centre is in Tottenham Court Road, which is in the middle of everything. Which is great when you are bored one Tuesday night and decide to go to a Christmas Market outside Embankment Station, or go to an Ice Bar and dance to the music with your friends, or travel the London Eye and see the city lighted on night. I never thought I would experience all of those things and more my first semester of college.

            I got to visit so many places that, without the program, I would have avoided as a tourist. For example:

·         I spoke in front of my classmates and a bunch of strangers at Speaker’s Corner when I had to give a speech for my Public Speaking class.

·         My friends and I walked across the zebra steps of Abbey Road, and took pictures next to the studio were the Beatles recorded their many albums.

·         I traveled to three different cities in Europe– Amsterdam, Berlin, and Paris– with my brother (if you get the chance, drink the water from the places you go, they all taste differently and it makes you think more about how water works).

·         My friends made Thanksgiving and we all set around the table and gave our thanks. I almost cried.

·         I went to my British friend’s house and sat eating English breakfast while her mother told stories of the time she was a flight attendant.

·         I climbed the many steps up St. Paul’s Cathedral and watched the sun go down the London Bridge.

           Studying abroad my first semester of college has made me cherish all the experiences I have from now on. Dr. Seuss says it best: “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” All those experiences I had while in London made me realize that if it wasn’t for that April day, when the brochure of the International program came in the mail, I would have spent my first semester of college at home, or going to community college. I am grateful to have walked the damp gravel to see Stonehenge, or tripped on concrete on my way to buy groceries in Bloomsbury, or flashed a smile to the worker in Russell Street News. My first semester abroad was, as Barney from How I Met Your Mother would say, “Legend-... wait for it... and I hope you're not lactose intolerant because the second half of that word is DAIRY!”

                                   

  Check out Kiara's video from her study abroad experience! http://youtu.be/JQoo_7MWxQ0
 

 

 

The 5 Breathtaking Towns of Cinque Terre

 By Sarah Jean Ferraris

I first heard of Cinque Terre from my friend, Kelsey Flynn who recommended it. I can’t thank her enough for sharing her experience with me because Cinque Terre is now one of my absolute favorite places in Italy. And if you’re a photographer, this is your dream come true! I’m
paying it forward by telling you that you must put Cinque Terre at top of your list of MUST SEE places while in Italy!

     
Since I was only in Florence for the summer, time was of the essence and I was only able to allot 1 day for this trip. I wish I had more because I could’ve spent a whole week there! Cinque Terre means five villages or towns and my one-day itinerary will help you realize independent travel is not as daunting as it seems.     Keith and I had an early start and took a 7 AM train from Florence to la Spezia. From there you can take a regional train to any of the 5 towns. We stopped first at Manarola which is actually the second town. Manarola has a lot of rocks you can go cliff jumping off of. We took another train to the next town, Corniglia and then we had to climb over 300 steps because it sits at the very top of a promontory. It’s surrounded by beautiful vineyards and terraces. This is a good pit stop to take a break and eat lunch because after you have to hike 2 hours to get to the next town. The hike from Corniglia to Vernazza was my favorite part of the trip. We hiked the coastal, cliff-side trail which meant we got wonderful views of the water. As you approach the picturesque town of Vernazza, you start to see the beautiful, colorful homes and the ruins of a rustic castle. Finally, we took a train to the last town, Monterosso and swam on the beach until it was time to take the train back to Florence. 

 

Cinque Terre is so incredibly beautiful and it will leave you in awe of how spectacular nature is! Cinque Terre will change your life! It changed mine and I’d give anything to go back.