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A guide to Dublin- Brendan Blaney

When I first found out I was studying abroad in Dublin, I was ecstatic. I thought to myself, “I’m Irish, so now I get to explore my roots.  I’m practically a local already! Sláinte! Finally, I’m returning to the Motherland!” Boy, I couldn’t have been further from the truth.

Dublin, like any international city, has so many sights to see it can be pretty overwhelming.  By the end of the second week after talking with actual locals, I had a list longer than a freshman’s syllabus full of places to go and see in Dublin – not to mention everywhere outside of Dublin, too.  

Being three months into studying abroad here, I have simplified my giant list into some of the most impressive sights to see in Dublin from my experience.

1.      Find and enjoy the live entertainment – Dublin is filled with talent.  Whether an organized group with a venue or a street performer, there’s so much enjoyment to be had if you take a minute and enjoy the performance of others in such a unique city.  You can find traditional bands playing Irish folk music in a pub all the way to “Top 40 hits” on Grafton Street.  Regardless of your taste (I won’t judge too much,) find live music; it won’t be hard.

2.      Experience St. Patrick’s Day (if you can) – Celebrating the saint’s feast day in his country of heritage is truly a national delight. Hundreds of thousands of people fill the streets in good spirits, and it beats any parade I have ever seen in the States.

Crowds of people flood O’Connell Street on Saint Patrick’s Day

3.      Walk through Saint Stephen’s Greene – Yes, nature because what trip to Ireland doesn’t include seeing why they call it the ���Emerald Isle”? This park is close to city centre and exists as a great respite for those longing for nature amidst the city landscape.

4.      Explore Phoenix Park – Best known as “Europe’s largest enclosed park in a capital city,” Phoenix Park has hundreds of acres to enjoy. Whether finding the beloved deer that inhabit the park or just enjoying the vast nature, this is definitely another natural sight to see.

You can imagine our excitement when my friend and I found the deer in Phoenix Park!

5.      See what the Temple Bar Area has to offer – I do not condone the consumption of alcohol, but the atmosphere of the Temple Bar district is absolutely electric.  There is always something going on, people walking about, and things to see.  It can sometimes appear like tourist central, but it’s definitely worth checking out.  Plus, they have more than just bars there!

While there’s tons more to see in Dublin, I think this gives you an idea of where to start.  Here’s to another great, final month abroad!

Brendan

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61 @marquetteglobal photos that will inspire you to travel: http://go.mu.edu/abroad-photos  

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You Are Marquette: Stephanie Graham

Name, age, year, hometown, college and major:

I’m Stephanie, 21, a senior (when did that happen?!) from Glen Ellyn, Illinois. I’m in the College of Communication studying journalism, with a double major in Spanish.

What is life like in Madrid?

Life in Madrid is about three hours after the United States, and I’m not talking about time zones! Madrileños eat dinner at 9 and go out until the wee hours of the morning. It was a bit hard to get used to, but now I love it. The city is so safe and easy to get around, and there are an infinite number of things to do, day and night.

What is the coolest thing you’ve done while abroad?

Honestly, I think the coolest thing has been just living in the Spanish capital for five months, improving my language skills and adapting to the culture, and in the process learning not only about Spain, but also quite a bit about the rest of Europe. Being a tourist is cool, but the insight it’s given me about myself and the world around me is what’s going to stick long after I’ve gone home.

What has been your favorite class at Universidad Complutense de Madrid and why?

(Note: Marquette students in Madrid attend Universidad Complutense, but we take classes with other Americans and are taught by Spanish professors! We do have the option to take classes with Spanish students, but unfortunately their finals are throughout the month of June and actual dates are unknown until we arrive in Spain.)

My favorite class is La mujer en la literatura española (Women in Spanish Literature). It’s at 8:30 in the morning, which is rough (it’s not like Marquette where classes are only a five-minute walk away!), but the professor, Dr. Santiago López-Ríos, is really kind and passionate about feminism, and he’s taught us so much. And he’s buddies with Dr. Dale from Marquette!

Where else have you traveled this semester?

Within Spain, I’ve visited Segovia, Burgos, Barcelona, Toledo, Córdoba, Sevilla and Granada. Outside of Spain, I’ve traveled to Paris, Dublin, Galway, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence and Rome. And after I leave I’ll be spending a week in Germany.

What do you miss most about Marquette?

My friends! I’ve made some wonderful friends at Marquette over the past three years and being away from them for five months has been pretty tough, especially since many of them turned 21 while I’ve been gone.

What’s your best piece of advice for future students studying abroad?

Have an open mind! You must be willing to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.

You can follow Stephanie's adventures abroad on Tumblr and find her on Twitter here. Interview by Jessie Bazan, Comm '14 

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¡National Marquette day 4000 miles away from home! - Annie Cairney

Number 1, find another Marquette friend so it feels just a little bit like you’re actually there

Here in Sevilla, Spain there are 2 other Marquette students with me. Before we all left in late January we had only met each other once, but by sheer dumb luck Haley (Communications ‘20) and I ended up renting rooms in the exact same house. We decided that if we couldn’t be at the Fiserv Forum with the rest of our classmates we had each other and were prepared to make the most of it here in the south of Spain,

Number 2, make sure you find a place to watch the game

A solid week before the game Haley was emailing back and forth with Marquette IT services to get a VPN set up. It got up and running just in time for the big game. Thank goodness it was an afternoon game so we were able to watch it at 8 pm Sevilla time. As a number of us gathered in the kitchen and huddled around Haley’s laptop we started to strap in for what was promised to be an amazing game

Number 3, make some cocktails that look like they belong on Pinterest

Spain is full of bright colors, especially at the produce markets. I went on a mission in the Mercado de Triana to find anything blue and gold to make a good cocktail with and in the end, I settled on blueberries and lemon. It took me almost half an hour to find a pint of blueberries, but I strongly believe I obtained the only carton in all of Triana that day. Lemons were easy to find and alcohol even easier. After a bit of trial and error and a little bit of help from our Irish bartender friend Amy, we had the most Pinterest worthy drinks you’ve ever seen.

Number 4, invite your new friends to join in on the Marquette experience

           Here in Sevilla, I’m living in the study abroad version of a sorority house. There are 17 girls here from all over the world, so we can have a house party without inviting any more guests. With our national Marquette day celebrations going on in the kitchen we attracted the attention of a few housemates and got to introduce them to the wonders of college sports.

Number 5, make some noise, cheer on the boys, and BEAT NOVA

           What a game. Haley and I cheered all night and stopped every now and then to explain what was going on to the other girls. It’s not that the rest of the world doesn’t have basketball, but it is not nearly as popular in places like Argentina where few of the girls in the house are from. As the clock wound down on one of the most anticipated games of the year Haley and I couldn’t sit down. I think we woke up half of the house as the final buzzer sounded and we cheered and applauded the fact that we #BEATNOVA in such a dramatic fashion.  

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Milan: My Temporary Home- Kate Holstein

I’ve been living in Milan, Italy for almost three months now and I’d like to say I’ve gotten to know it pretty well. It’s a city of workers, creatives, and dreamers. They all have purpose and know what they want to do, but they definitely take their time living a leisurely life (in typical Italian fashion).

Milan has a lot to offer. It’s a quintessential big city with pockets of Italian charm that remind you that you’re in Italy. It boasts a world-renowned Fashion Week and Design Week. It has one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen. It is, without a doubt, an underrated and under-talked-about city that I’m so blessed I get the chance to call home.

So, as a semi-local (that feels like a stretch but we’re going with it), here are the gems that Milan has to offer:

1. The Canals—Great for soaking up the sun with friends or eating delicious pizzas that are bigger than your entire face.

2. Brera—the art district that makes you feel like you’re not in the city anymore. It boasts a quiet confidence that only an art district in the middle of arguably one of the artsiest cities in the world can.

3. Duomo—the aforementioned most beautiful church. Smack dab in the middle of the city rises the most intricately carved, GIANT church I think I’ve ever seen (and my giant, beautiful church count has grown exponentially since my time in Europe).

4. Fondazione Prada—a museum boasting huge modern art displays and a Wes Anderson designed café.

5. The Castle—Actually called Sforzesco Castle, it is a giant, you guessed it, castle in the middle of the city. Perfect for a midday stroll around the expansive gardens or exploration of the museums attached.

6. Coffee shops—There are also tiny gems of cafes everywhere you look. A delicious cappuccino or shot of espresso is at your fingertips around every corner you turn. The best part? You won’t spend more than €2.50 on a cappuccino. Milan also has one of five Starbucks Reserves in the world. It’s in an outrageously pretty building and you can see the coffee silos opened to reveal the plethora of beans. It’s unlike any Starbucks you’ve ever been to.

7. Pizza, pizza, pizza— There’s pizza everywhere you look. Some of my favorites include Woodstock 3, Gino Sorbillo’s, and Pizza AM.

8. And Last but not Least, The Last Supper—self-explanatory. Leonardo Da Vinci’s iconic painting resides in Milan.

I could go on, but the real highlight of Milan is walking around and getting to know this awesome city. I’m incredibly blessed to be able to spend my time abroad here.

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More Than Just A Vacation- Nathan Baron

On Thursday January 24, I arrived in Milan Italy (Click for a travel vlog) to study abroad at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart for the next 4 months. Studying abroad had been an aspiration of mine ever since I entered Marquette University and it was finally happening. I knew virtually nothing about the city of Milan but I was ok with that, I pride myself in being an adventurous person and couldn’t wait to start a new chapter in my life. 

In hopes of familiarizing myself with my new neighborhood and getting some sightseeing in before school started, I arrived earlier than necessary. (Click for a tour of my apartment). My academic courses didn’t start till February 18 which left me with nearly 3 weeks to explore, meet new people, and simply get adjusted to life in Milan.

During my first 3 weeks, I treated my time here like a vacation. I ate out nearly every meal, went shopping for new clothes (Who doesn’t love European fashion?), went to clubs nearly every night, and went sightseeing on the daily. While these 3 weeks were definitely ones to remember, my bank account wasn’t very forgiving and the phone calls from my parents wondering why I were spending so much quickly got old. 

As much as I told myself I needed to go grocery shopping and start spending less, I found myself getting caught up in the fun of making new friends. Let’s be real, everyone’s gotta eat and when you’re in Italy, sharing a plate full of pasta or pizza with people you just met is the best way to bond! Looking back at it, I made my closest friends by splitting the bill for a delicious pizza or dancing the night away at a club on a Wednesday night.

Half way through the third week as the idea of classes started to cross my mind along with less free time, I finally came to my senses. I did some research and found the nearest grocery store, Esselunga. Chicken, spinach, broccoli, avocado, rice, fresh bread, pasta sauce, butter, olive oil, gelato... you get the point, I finally came to my senses and made a shopping list.

Looking back at my experience, I feel as if I may have stumbled upon a psychological phenomenon. Whatever you want to call this mindset, be aware and set yourself a budget. Have your fun but don’t let this habit prolong itself. Remember, your here for more than just a vacation, you’re here to stay.

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First Month in Australia - Aryana Barudin

What I told myself, going into this adventure called “Study Abroad,” was to not have any expectations for what this experience would entail. I pushed hard against any assumption but one thought lingered; That it would not be very different from America. Which is true, in a way, the language is the same, I can still get dominos… well honestly as I am writing this, that is about it. I was naïve to think that it would be pretty similar, which has made this experience all the more exciting.

           When I first came to Australia I landed in Sydney. A perfect cross bread of beach vibes and city atmosphere. The Taranga Zoo, Manly and Bondi Beach, every single restaurant is beautiful and fun. Not having my trusty Apple Maps was easily overcome by the kindness of the locals. Navigating by the train or tram has no negative social stigmas and is really encouraged everywhere. I was able to easily venture everywhere and figure out the network systems in the super fun, fast moving Sydney.

           Then I landed in my new home, Melbourne, coined to me by many locals “the hipster capital of the world.” No, not everyone here is walking around in overalls and curly mustaches; although I would be wrong to say there is not a much higher density of overalls and curly mustaches present here. I have not gone to a single restaurant that does not have at least three vegan and vegetarian options. There are three grocery stores within a 15 minute walk that are non-waste, fair trade, and local farmer supporters. Very well kept Parks litter and everyone in the community uses them as they are never empty. The streets are always filled with people that I can hear are from all over the world. The restaurants reflect this, which is a major plus for any big foodie like myself.

           I was worried I would not be able to make friends, but I should not have wasted energy worrying. ACU orientation was simple and so helpful at preparing me for my classes and introducing me to other abroad students. We all introduced ourselves to each other as a group then we were able to have a rooftop lunch together. The next day people met for an Amazing Race which took you around the city and forced you to become great mates with your team. Just like freshmen orientation, no one knows anyone, so everyone is eager to meet you. I met the coolest chic from Chicago, Demetria, and just got back from a spontaneous road trip together. The Great Ocean Road trip to the 12 Apostles is stunning and I highly recommend it!

The absolute most difficult obstacle, that I still need to figure out how to overcome, is walking down the streets. So far in each city and town I have gone to, I have not been able to distinguish which side of the sidewalk I should be walking on. Which results in a lot of bumping into people, or double side stepping, to remain in the persons way. I know this seems so absurdly small, and a very strange struggle. But a struggle it is. I usually am weaving all over place just always needing to stay alert. America, I really appreciate how people walk on the same side they drive on.

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Anything but Idle on the Emerald Isle – Brendan Blaney

My dad has always told me the phrase, “trying new things is like going to the gym.  The hardest part is putting on your shoes and getting yourself out the door.”  

Now that I’ve arrived in Ireland and spent a month here, I know my dad was right.  The hardest thing was boarding my plane and getting here. After a hefty flight, fighting off jetlag by staying up for 36 hours straight, moving into my new apartment, and getting oriented to campus at University College Dublin, I felt like I had made it to Ireland.  I could finally take a deep breath of relief.

I made it to my beautiful home for the next couple months

However, with that comes the crazy thought every student studying abroad thinks: “Okay, I’ve made it here.  Now what??” I didn’t know how to work the bus system; I needed to find groceries, kitchenware, and essentials for living; I only knew people from my nursing cohort in this massive campus/city.  The list goes on.  I guess my dad forgot to explain what to do once you got to “the gym.” All I can say is that I’m glad the people of Ireland speak English!

But just like every single person has assured me, I did, in fact, find my way.  While I never would have thought it during my first few days here, I feel very comfortable in this great city of Dublin after many trial-by-error experiences (like taking the wrong bus an hour the wrong way!)  

Exploring a forest with friends in Cong

Now I explore new local shops and parks as often as possible, have learned the bus routes (never making that mistake again,) made plenty of new friends, and even joined societies on campus.  Sometimes it takes pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone to really find what you’re looking for.

The best part about being comfortable in a new city comes the fun part – exploring!  The first weekend after arrival, some friends and I went to Howth, a beautiful seaside town just outside of Dublin, and took in all the coast had to offer – fish ‘n chips included.  

Great friends and great views in Howth

The following weekend I traveled to Galway and the Cliffs of Moher with the International Students Society from University College Dublin.  Not only were the scenic views incredible, the variety of people and cultures I met from students all around the world astounded me all the same.

The Cliffs of Moher

That’s not to say I haven’t explored my fair share of Dublin.  However, even with all that I feel like I have explored, I know that there’s so many more parks, pubs, and places still to see in my new home for the next few months.  Fortunately, I now know that all I have to do is put my shoes on and get myself out the door. Time to lace up!

Brendan Blaney

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ROTC cadets can receive a fully funded scholarship to learn Arabic in Oman in summer 2021 with Marquette University!  Applications now open!  Deadline is January 13, 2021.  For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3d2qNHi. #ApplyProjectGO #marquetteglobal #ROTC #USArmyROTC #USNavyROTC #USAirforceROTC #Oman https://www.instagram.com/p/CF9zkMJH4pO/?igshid=1xqo6a86w0yrh

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“Actually Studying During Study Abroad”- Emma Nitschke

It’s the first day of the second semester here at Le Catho. Now that I’ve not mentioned actual school for an entire semester, now would be a pretty good time.

In some ways, le Catho is like college in the U.S. In other ways, it’s very different. We choose courses by picking off class schedules taped to the wall. My mother went to college in the ‘70s and they had computerized course selection.

But the French kids don’t really even pick their classes. Everyone in their major takes the same courses at the same times, so all their classes are with the same kids. Also, all our classes are in one building. I feel like I’m back in high school sometimes.

You only have each class once a week, and their classes are worth half the credits of ours, so I signed up for 13 classes last semester and 11 for this one. Most of my classes are two hours long. One of them is four hours long (help).

Classes don’t all start and end the same week, it depends on the number of class hours and the professor’s preference. And if he or she cancels a class, there’s a make-up week at the end of the semester to reschedule it.

There’s not as many classes scheduled for Monday or Friday because those days are when we have all our exams. So last semester, every day was a three-day weekend for me (more like four since I only had one class on Monday). That was really nice, but that much free time can really derail your motivation and the resulting 8 a.m.-6 p.m. class days I had Tuesday through Thursday could be exhausting.  

The content of the classes is a lot more lecture than discussion. They don’t assign as many readings as American professors, but it’s certainly not a year free from homework. A lot of classes have the midterm and final as the only grades.

Speaking of grades, they grade on a scale from 1 to 20 here. Ten is passing (for MU students studying abroad here), 12 is a B+, 14 and above is an A. And as they told us at orientation, “Twenty is for God alone, 19 is for the professor, 17 and 18 is for blowing the professor away, and 16 is really really good.” I think professors grade a little easier on the international kids, because all my grades were between 13 and 19.

All in all, school in France, in French as an international student is challenging, but not overwhelming. There were some times I stayed up super late writing papers or studying, but that was my own fault for procrastinating. I got good grades (at least on the midterms, we still don’t know our final grades), but I had to work for them. Even though it’s obviously harder to keep up in lectures here, I never leave class feeling totally lost.

So if you’re considering studying abroad, taking college courses in another language may seem daunting, but I encourage you to try. You can always drop the class or switch to an English class if it turns out to be too much, but it’s a lot easier to rise to the challenge than you may think. Taking classes in French has majorly strengthened my listening comprehension and familiarity with the language — skills that my friends who only took classes in English admit they couldn’t develop on their own.

The chance to take translation classes would be reason enough for me to study abroad. I decided at the end of high school that’s what I wanted to do with my life even though I had zero experience in it and Marquette doesn’t offer classes in it. Getting to try my hand at it before I go to grad school for a degree in it is incredibly reassuring and my success with it makes me so excited for my future career.

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“Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable“-Cassie Wessing

I will admit, I was unprepared.  

Before getting on the eight-hour plane ride to Rome, Italy to spend the next few months in my home away from home, I knew one phrase in Italian: “Where is the bathroom?”

It had become a running joke in the weeks leading up to leaving whenever anyone asked me if I was ready to study abroad in Italy.  “Sure.” I responded. “I know all I need to know: Pizza, spaghetti, and gelato.  …And I’m about 90% sure that hello is ciao.”  

After spending my first two weeks in Italy, I wish I would have taken my mom’s advice and learned some basic Italian phrases from good ole Rick Steves.  Not only did I not know my tagliatelle from my tortellini, but I didn’t know my up from my down.  I was so lost in the language barrier that I didn’t even know how to say that I was lost.  

Thankfully, Rome is a huge city where many locals also speak English, and as a light-skinned, freckled redhead with Converse sneakers and an Adidas backpack, I wasn’t exactly blending in to the romantic, Mediterranean, high-fashion culture that was Italy.

Needless to say, people spoke English to me almost automatically. As an English major with a passion for rhetoric who has dedicated her academics to studying language, for the first time in my life, language was holding me back instead of propelling me forward.  The feeling was…unsettling.   I weave through the winding streets of Trastevere, the small neighborhood surrounding John Cabot University. Riddled with small gelato shops, mini-markets, and quaint bars, I try my best to look like I know what I’m doing even though every street looks like the last and has a name that I can’t pronounce.  Puzzled, I can’t help but think, is this what Ponce de León felt like looking for the Fountain of Youth?

By the grace of God and Google Maps, I stumble upon a grocery store and embark on an adventure in itself.  Food is food you might think.  A zucchini in the United States is still a zucchini in Italy.  This is what I tell myself as I eat an almost fully vegetable and fruit diet because to try and interpret what anything packaged in Italian might be, may land me making spaghetti with salsa instead of tomato sauce.

However, when you get past the initial frightening experiences of grocery shopping, ordering at cafes, and trying to use the ATM in an Italian speaking culture, you come to realize that as different as it all is, that at the other half of the frightening 50% lies the exciting adventure of it all.

In a few months, I will return home to a fully immersive English routine and may never experience what it feels like to live as a confused, and dare I say, vulnerable outsider again.  I’m in an incredibly unique position here. Despite asking someone “Where are you from, blow-dryer?” instead of “Where can I find a blow-dryer?” I have to admit how unique of an opportunity it is to be thrown into the fire of a language barrier.  

Study abroad teaches you to be a full-time learner, soaking in as much of the language, customs, and experiences as you can in an incredibly short amount of time.  You learn that is okay to fail as long as you try, to be comfortable with being uncomfortable, and of course, to ALWAYS carry a translating book in your back pocket.

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“A Letter to Me“- Noel Hincha

To Pre-France Noel,

I know you’re freaking out, your French is woefully worse than you thought. You’re here in France, and you don’t even know how to use the Metro; but don’t worry, a stranger will teach you how because people are kind here. Always say, “Merci!”

I know you’re sitting in the first day of class and staring blankly as the professor talks on and on about cartography and geological transformations in French. Again, you’ll freak out and want to drop out of university – don’t. I promise it’ll get easier, and by the end of the semester, you’ll be able to talk about glacial regressions and transgressions in French.

I know you’re lying alone in your room on a Thursday, wondering if you’re going to find friends in this intimidating, new university. Wrong, again. You’ll walk down the stairs one day, meet another student, and help her carry her bags up three flights of stairs; she’ll introduce you to people, and soon you’ll be spending your Thursday evenings and many more days in good company – laughing, smiling, talking.

I know you’re just eating baguettes right now. Honestly, keep worrying because that’s all you’ll keep eating. Maybe you’re slightly malnourished in the country of gastronomy, but you’ll also eat out with friends. You’ll have all-you-can-eat sushi, Welsh even though you’re lactose intolerant, delicious Belgian waffles, and the occasional McDonald’s as an homage to your country.

To mid-France Noel,

I know you’re not studying. Remember that this is still school, get it together – more study, less baguette.

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“A Strong Sense of Justice” - Cate Sullivan-Konyn

Molweni!

It is hard to believe that I am halfway into my South Africa Service Learning Program experience.I feel very lucky to be apart of one of the most diverse groups in terms of race and gender that SASL has had. The social injustice issues surrounding race and gender are very near and important to me and it has been interesting and inspiring to have genuine conversations with my housemates while actively learning about South Africa’s struggle for justice.

It’s difficult to not think about social justice and injustice while here. The neighborhoods throughout Cape Town change drastically like the do in Milwaukee, the disparities of resources between the rich and the poor are drastic.

Every week we have a guest speaker in our Grassroots Leadership course. I’ve noticed that everyone who speaks to our group demonstrates a very strong sense of justice. We’ve had speakers who fought in the anti-apartheid struggle and speakers who work on child rights and advocacy. All of the speakers understand that their purpose is larger than themselves and that they are only doing a small part in South Africa’s quest for justice. Yet, they dedicated their lives to the well being of others and the vision of a just, fair country.

This past weekend I climbed Table Mountain with some of my housemates. It was the first time in awhile that I could be alone and quiet with my thoughts. As I was climbing through waterfalls, I was thinking the lessons I will bring back with me. This lesson of justice is one that I will pack with me in my suitcase. I am reflecting on the causes that are important to me and how I can better learn and advocate for justice in a time that our world is aching for it.

“Ubuntu” is a Xhosa word that translate to “I am because we are, we are because I am.” Everyday I am learning more and more about Ubuntu and how it relates to justice, kindness and community. Through service learning, school, living in community and understanding South Africa’s rich history; it is becoming more evident that we all belong to each other and have a responsibility to each other. And when you understand that, then "people" become your sisters and brothers, then their struggles become your struggles and that is when justice is sparked.

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“(Almost) Scared to Death About Leaving” - Katie DeCarlo

Whenever I told someone that I was studying abroad and leave in July, I was super excited. I always knew that I wanted to study abroad and it was my dream to go to Australia, but a few days before leaving I started questioning things. I started asking myself things like “What am I doing going 10,000 miles away from everyone I know?” and “Who is letting a 20-year live by herself in a foreign country?” In all honesty, I was scared to go. I was so used to my routine, my hometown, and my friends and family that I didn’t want to leave. I was scared of the new things that Sydney was going to hand to me because I had no idea what they would be. After talking it out, I realized that it’s okay to feel like that. It is completely normal to be terrified of change. It would probably be more worrisome if I didn’t have these thoughts and fears. But after some much needed advice from my parents, I started feeling a little bit better about myself. And throughout my journey to get to Sydney, strangers even offered advice. From this mother I met in line at security in JFK to the flight attendants, and even this older Australian couple that helped me navigate my way through LAX. They all said it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and it was something I wasn’t going to regret. All this support really made me feel like I was ready to do this and even though I am still a little afraid of what Australia is going to throw at me, I am ready to fully embrace it.

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“I’m Ready For Adventure” - Cate Sullivan-Konyn

In less than six days I will be boarding a plane, with a giant suitcase, going halfway across the world ready for an adventure. As the pile of things I need to take with me grows by the day, the more nervous and excited I become. My student visa came a few weeks ago and for the first time my next adventure felt real.

The pre-travel jitters have set in for me. First and foremost, the almost 24 hours of travel gets the butterflies going in my stomach. I love traveling, but flying is not my favorite thing. I am really close with my family and I feel a little guilty about not being around for their new and exciting adventures this fall, but I am ready for my adventure too.

As I reflect on what I am ready for; I am ready to leave what has become familiar and routine and I look forward to living in the moment and being challenged by not knowing. I am ready to authentically step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in new communities and ways of life when invited to do so. I am ready to learn about racial justice at a deeper level while exploring the true meaning of “ubuntu.”

I am looking forward to starting school at University of Western Cape Town. I want to build relationships with my classmates and I am excited to learn about South Africa. South Africa has a very rich history, culture and legacy of social justice that I am looking forward to learning about. I look forward to challenging myself with service learning; I hope to have a better understanding of the root causes of social injustices in Cape Town, make comparisons to the United States and Milwaukee and be inspired by those who work towards justice to do better when I return home.

I am ready to see and experience South Africa for myself. Like many of us, through the stories we hear and pictures we look at; we all paint a picture of a place or country. This was very true for me when I traveled to Haiti; I thought I knew what I was walking into, but I was wrong, very wrong. I’ve talked with people who’ve visited Cape Town, had coffee with a professor who taught at a university in Cape Town and alums from this program; and I’ve painted a picture in my head knowing that it will be changed and that is quite alright. This also reminds me to be authentic, genuine and real when sharing my experiences of Cape Town.

So as the pile continues to grow in my room, as I say “see you laters” to people I love and adore, as the butterflies in my stomach multiply, I know my adventure is waiting and I am ready to take it.

[marquetteglobal]

“Australia Bound” - Elizabeth  Olson

I still cannot believe I get to go study in Australia for a semester! The nerves of traveling across the world for such an extended period of time come and go, but right now I’m just excited! My flight is tomorrow, but I am still trying to get everything packed and ready for the 16+ hour journey over there. People started asking me a month ago if I had started packing yet… um no. I had barely even thought about what would be on the list of things to pack, let alone actually setting stuff aside. I must admit this made me feel like I was falling behind and would never be ready in time. However, I talked with some friends that packed the night before they left for a semester, so I figured it would be fine!

I started the process by making a list and slowly accumulating things about a week before my departure date. I hope since I didn’t just do it the night before, I have limited the number of things I forget at home. The weirdest part about packing was that I have to pack clothes for cold weather. Even though it is the middle of summer here, it is the middle of their winter. So I have to pack a few sweaters to go to Australia in July… which somehow doesn’t feel quite right (at least not until I get over there and it’s cold). When I get to Australia, I will have a little over a week for orientation activities, both from my housing program (Semester in Australia) and Australian Catholic University. One of the activities I’m most excited for is attending an Australian Football game, which is an intense combination of rugby, basketball, and American football (if you’re interested, here’s a video from the AFL that explains it well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMZYZcoAcU0). This will be a great way to experience part of the Australian culture and meet the other international students. I am taking 3 classes that are specific to my major of exercise physiology (nutrition, exercise leadership, and sport/exercise psychology) and one class about Australian literature. In addition to my classes, I’m looking forward to the food, the coffee, the kangaroos and koala bears, the sites, the people, and making some amazing memories in the Land Down Under!