Dancing Through Europe

Before this trip, going on a one month trip abroad didn’t feel real. I had never been to Europe, and part of me couldn’t believe I was actually going. But now that I’m here, I don’t want to leave. So far, we’ve spent time in Vienna and just arrived in Munich. I have already made so many new friends and discovered so many beautiful places.

One of my favorite days so far was in Vienna when a ton of us jumped into the Danube River in the 80-degree weather. It was so refreshing and so much fun. Afterward, we went to a restaurant right across the river, still in our swimsuits and towels, laughing and eating together like we’d known each other for years. That whole day felt like the best day ever!! Living fully and dancing around, listening to music with new friends.

We took the subway everywhere in Vienna, which made the city feel accessible and easy to explore. Every station led us somewhere beautiful, from stunning churches to quiet streets with hidden cafés. The architecture, the slower pace of life felt very peaceful.

We just started exploring Munich, and already I really like how hands-on the program has been.

Belvedere Palace

Strolling through the Vienna streets

This morning we went to a workshop and learned all about resinography, and we got to make our own postcards! I’d never tried resinography before, and I’m super excited because we all get to share them with each other. I can't wait to see everyone else’s pieces.

Also, can we talk about how amazing the vegetarian food is here?! One of my favorite things so far is all the plant-based options. Germany’s McDonald’s has VEGETARIAN chicken nuggets that are literally better than the normal ones. I wish we had that back home.

Housing has been cozy, and my classmates are awesome. Many of us come from different

places, but we’ve connected so quickly through shared experiences. The professors and local guides have been generous with their time and genuinely want us to soak in as much as we can.

Before the trip, I expected it to be exciting but maybe a little overwhelming. Instead, it’s been energizing. Every day is packed with so much joy, and I honestly wake up with a smile on my face, looking forward to what the day brings. I’ve learned that jumping into the

unknown—whether it’s a river or a subway ride -- can lead to some of the most rewarding

experiences.

My favorite part of Europe so far? It’s not just the places—it’s the feeling. People here live

slower, walk more, talk longer, and seem more present. I want to bring that back with me.

There’s still so much ahead, but this summer abroad is already something I know I will talk

about forever.