Current Bloggers

Emma Donohue

Program Name: CIEE Central European Studies in Prague
Major: Political Science; Legal Studies
Hometown: Park Ridge, Illinois

I chose this program because of the country’s rich history, culture, and the chance to immerse myself in something that I know nothing about. I am really excited to learn more about the architecture and just the culture in general because I feel like I know so little about it. I want to add more to my comparative political and legal knowledge to give me a broader lens to view the world and my future academics.

Grace Giovingo

Program Name: Ewha University
Major: Global Health
Hometown: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

I am excited to deepen not only my conversational skills but also my understanding of cultural honorifics and communication styles that are essential to building meaningful connections during my time in South Korea. I am looking forward to exploring the charismatic energy of Seoul by adventuring through its diverse neighborhoods: from hanok villages to fast-paced Sinchon. I chose Ewha University because of its global reputation as the world’s most prestigious women’s institution, its foundational Christian values, and its vibrant location in the heart of Seoul.

Jonathon Gregory

Program Name: University of Limerick
Major: Civil Engineering
Hometown: Appleton, Wisconsin

I am most excited to learn about the rich history in Limerick as it was a Viking settlement in the 9th century. I look forward to exploring the local castles and hearing local myths and legends about Ireland. I was initially interested in the University of Limerick program from close friends who had gone and spoke highly of the balance they were able to maintain with their interests and rigorous schoolwork.

Leonardo Herrera Perez

Program Name: IES Barcelona
Major: Political Science; Legal Studies
Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin

One of my goals through this program is to deepen my knowledge of politics and law while simultaneously developing my sense of international relations between nations. With that in mind, I chose this program for its wonderful Poli Sci program that covers a vast array of subjects and fits in perfectly into what I want to study, what I want to grasp a better understanding of, and what I need to be successful in my field. Beyond the academics, the biggest thing I’m looking forward to learning about the city is the culture: Barcelona is a beautiful city full of history, delicious cuisine and amazing architecture, and a strong, unified community that are proud to represent their city.

Ben Jordan

Program Name: Academic Year in Freiburg (AYF)
Major: Political Science; International Studies
Hometown: Shell Lake, Wisconsin

I want to really increase my proficiency with the German language. The location of the program (Freiburg) is beautiful, and the sister city of Madison, Wisconsin! I am most looking forward to following the S.C. Freiburg soccer team and exploring the amazing nature surrounding the city.

Brita Lake

Program Name: CET Taiwan
Major: Molecular and Cell Biology; Chinese
Hometown: Fitchburg, Wisconsin

During my study abroad experience, I hope to become more confident in my ability to engage in everyday conversations using Mandarin. I chose CET-Taiwan because they offer an internship as well as classes. I’m excited to get to know more about Taiwanese food!

David Miller

Program Name: Keio University
Major: Environmental Studies; French
Hometown: Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Other than speaking as much Japanese as possible, I want to make a point to visit every ward in Tokyo! There are 23, so visiting each of them will force me to go outside my comfort zone, talk to locals, and try new things. I chose Keio University because I knew that I wanted to go to Tokyo. I love big cities and trains, so there isn’t another place I’d rather get to live in for a year. I am most looking forward to experiencing Tokyo’s music scene. From back-alley jazz bars to the Tokyo Dome, I can’t wait to go to every concert I can get tickets for.

Zoe Nelson

Program Name: University College Dublin Business
Major: Marketing; Risk Management & Insurance; English
Hometown: Sand Creek, Wisconsin

I want to take advantage of the opportunity to study a more unique topic while abroad, classes I wouldn’t be able to take on campus at UW. Outside of class, one thing I really enjoy is hiking, and Ireland has some of the best scenery in the world! I’m excited to explore Dublin all while getting a great education. Everything! I can’t wait to meet the people and learn all of the best parts about living in Dublin.

Blog posts coming soon!

William Perri

Program Name: IES Paris Business & International Affairs
Major: Management
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee

I wish to learn more about the French culture and history that I find so interesting. I chose this program because it gives me the opportunity to continue my business studies while practicing my French. I look forward to learning about its rich and vast history because I find European History very interesting.

Lydia Randall

Program Name: Nanyang Technological University
Major: Electrical Engineering
Hometown: Sheboygan, Wisconsin

I chose NTU because it was important for me to stay on track for graduation by taking courses that count toward my engineering degree. NTU offers a large array of engineering courses, which makes me confident I’ll be able to do so. I also really liked that NTU has a strong reputation in science and technology and a diverse international student body. Overall, NTU fits well with both my academic and personal goals. I’m most looking forward to experiencing what it’s like to live in Singapore. I’ve traveled in Southeast Asia before and really enjoyed my time there. I’m excited to go back and learn more about the culture and everyday life. I’m interested in seeing how daily routines, food, and social life compare to what I’m used to in the U.S.

Lillian Warren

Program Name: CIMBA
Major: Accounting
Hometown: Becker, Minnesota

I hope to learn more about Italian culture and history while developing my professional skills. I chose CIMBA for its gorgeous location at the base of the Alps. I hope to learn the history of Pieve del Grappa and the surrounding area, and I look forward to trying the cuisine.