Category: Uncategorized

Life here in Ecuador has been pretty uneventful since the last time I submitted a blog. The past two weeks have consisted of doing my “deberes,” or school work, and preparing for upcoming medical school interviews. Quite honestly, I underestimated the amount of work that I would have this semester. In fact, I’ve had to turn down a lot of fun travel activities to do my assignments and sufficiently prepare myself for my interviews. I wouldn’t say I’m miserable; however, over the last few weeks, I’ve started to get the feeling that I’m not even abroad as I don’t do anything other than sleep, go to school, and do schoolwork! Again, I am 100% okay as I had a hunch that the semester could go this way, but it does serve as a reminder that studying abroad is not a glamorous vacation by any means. With this, I do think that one’s experience abroad is principally defined by two things: 1) region of the world and 2) program type. Coming from an SIT program in the same location (Quito) to a direct-enrollment program (through IES), the differences are “whip-lash worthy.”

Let’s run through a typical day. I have classes Monday through Thursday, and I usually wake up around 7:15AM. I quickly get ready and then head downstairs for my coffee and breakfast. I usually eat either alone or with my host dad as my host mom cooks our breakfast. After engulfing my breakfast, I run upstairs to brush my teeth and head out the door. My walk to USFQ is only 10 minutes each way… but it is ALL uphill, meaning that I usually arrive to my first class panting like a dog. Once I’m at school, my day is pretty unremarkable. I go to my classes, and when I’m done with my day, I head home to drink a coffee and chat with my host mom. Each evening before dinner, I catch up with everyone back at home by WhatsApp or phone call before starting my schoolwork around 8PM. Once I start my schoolwork, I work for around 4 or 5 hours before calling it quits, going to bed, and repeating it all over again the next day.

In terms of specific details, I think it’ll be easiest to lay them out here in a list.

Where do I eat meals? I eat all of my meals at the dining room table with my host family. Meals are a very important part of Latin American culture. We share stories from our day and catch up with one another at the table as we start and finish our days.

How do I get to school? My walk to school is roughly 10 minutes each way on the main road that runs through Cumbayá. On my way to school, I walk uphill, and on the way back, I walk downhill.

Free-time activities? I love to meet friends for coffee or dinner. It feels so good to speak in English every once in a while! If I don’t have a ton of homework, I love short weekend trips to the Amazon, beach, or cool places in the Andes. I’ve planned a hike for this upcoming Saturday to Fuya Fuya, a trail that I was unable to check off my list last year!

Homestay details? Now that my youngest host sister, Dayana, has returned home from her intern year in the Amazon as an orthodontist, there’s 5 of us in the main house. My two host brothers don’t live in the house with us but stop by every day to spend a few hours with the family. I’ve got my own bathroom, closet, and bedroom, and my host family’s property is HUGE with around 12 different rooms all surrounding a big garden. It’s a great space.

Host-siblings? I have 4 host-siblings and they’re all older than me. We get along great.

Daily routine differences between USFQ and Wofford? I would say the biggest difference is that I don’t have a super long commute to USFQ like I do at Wofford where I commute around 30 minutes in each direction. I think the second biggest difference between my two daily routines is that I take around an hour out of my day here in Ecuador to eat lunch, whereas I don’t eat lunch at Wofford. I appreciate the pause in my day it gives me.

I hope these details are useful to anyone considering studying abroad in Latin America and staying with a host-family and/or direct enrolling. As I said in the first paragraph, I really do believe that one’s experience studying abroad greatly depends on the program type, and I truthfully didn’t wholly conceptualize that until I returned to the same city and country but with a different program. No one program is bad, but it is important to consider what you’re looking for in terms of academics as you plan!

It has nearly been two full weeks of being here in London, and already so much has happened! After flying across the pond and arriving at our residence, a mixture of jet lag, adrenaline, and excitement ensued as I began to settle into my home for the next three months.

I’ll admit, upon arrival, I did have a few travel reservations, with being in an entirely new country and all. At first, I was a little bit hesitant about what the semester would hold, and I was worried my flight would get delayed or my luggage lost. None of this happened, and I seemed to make it over here all in one piece, so all was well on the travel end.

The days leading up to the start of this trip were definitely a rollercoaster of excitement as well as nerves, but while landing, my thoughts turned towards the upcoming semester, ranging from wondering what my classes would be like, to all the travel spots I want to hit, and even thoughts about all the cool restaurants I would find. It was hard to think too long about any of this, as my friends and I were quickly ushered through the Heathrow airport and hit the ground running with orientation meetings and welcome events as soon as we arrived to our residence.

The first couple of days definitely took some adjustments, as I was not only meeting so many new people, but also trying to figure out where necessary places were in relation to my housing, including the location of my classes, grocery stores, and interesting social spots.

While I did not start classes the first week of arriving in London, I have already learned so much about being here and the London culture. London is a very fast-paced city, with everyone on the move and in a rush to get from point A to point B. Being in the big city and having to learn our way around has been a process that is surprisingly easier than it seems. The tube, similar to the subway system, is very efficient, easy to learn, and can take you anywhere you need to go. I have found that if you just act like you know what you are doing, it is far easier to adjust to this fast-paced lifestyle.

Another interesting aspect of the culture here revolves around the idea of “politeness” in comparison to the US interpretation of being polite. Back home, especially in the south, it is very normal to smile at people in passing, make small chit chat, and even compliment people on what we observe about them. Here, however, people are far more private and want to keep to themselves, especially in very public areas like the tube and walking down streets. It is not that British people are being rude if they do not return a smile or opt not to make small talk during interactions, but there is just a different perception of politeness here in London. This has been one of the many interesting observations that I have noticed in my short time here, and I look forward to exploring the London culture and experiences here. Until next time! 

My typical school morning usually starts at 6:30am, which is significantly earlier than I wake up back in the states. After getting ready, I finish up any homework or studying before heading out to make the long journey to school. For breakfast, me and my roommates stop at a small, yet incredibly delicious bakery across the street from our apartment. Next, we take about 9 minutes to walk to the subway and take the brown line from Nanjing Fuxing (南京复兴) to Keji Dalou (科技大楼). Once we exit the subway station, we take another 15 minutes to complete our walk to National Taiwan University. I have afternoon classes, so I actually start school at 12pm and finish at 3pm. After classes finish, we like to grab a snack from the student activity center, typically some type of dumplings. Once we return to our apartment, my roommates and I typically chat about our class content for the day and work on some of our homework. It starts to get dark around 6pm here in Taiwan, so once we finish some work, we like to go out and explore during the night. Taiwan is even more lively at night, so we never feel out of place when walking around so late. Recently, we’ve had the opportunity to visit many night markets and temples. The atmosphere of the night markets is like walking into another universe within Taiwan, filled with all different types of sounds and delicious smells from traditional Taiwanese snacks.

One of our new Taiwanese friends invited us to the Raohe Night Market (饶河夜市: Rao2 He2 Ye4 Shi4) recently and introduced us to new foods such as stinky tofu (臭豆腐: Chou4 Dou4 Fu3), ribs stewed in medicinal herbs (药炖排骨: Yao4 Dun4 Pai2 Gu3), papaya milk (木瓜牛奶: Mu4 Gua1 Niu2 Nai3), and Taiwanese fire and ice dumplings (桂花芝麻汤圆: Gui4 Hua1 Zhi1 Ma2 Tang1 Yuan2). The fire and ice dumplings had sesame and peanut paste inside and the ice surrounding the dumplings also had a sweet flavor.

This entire experience has completely changed my daily routine from when I was in America. Mostly because I now have more free time than usual, but also because I am pushing myself to be more adventurous while I have this opportunity. Back home, I would probably spend all of my time in my dorm doing homework, and maybe go out on the weekend, but I’ve made a 180 from my previous lifestyle here.

“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.”

– Ambrose Redmoon

Hi everyone! My name is Gracie Malcomb and I am a senior studying Humanities and English. This semester I am studying abroad in Ireland, which is a dream come true for me! I have been in Ireland for about three weeks, and I am already loving my time here so much. It is such a surreal feeling to finally be here, and I am so excited to have the chance to showcase why Ireland is such a special place in my heart with you over the course of the semester!

Although I am a really indecisive person, I have always known that if I were to ever study abroad in college, it would be in Ireland. So last spring when I decided to take a leap of faith and submit my study abroad application, I chose to do a direct enrollment program at a local university in Limerick, Ireland. Being in a direct enrollment program has been such an incredible experience for me! I have had the opportunity to meet students from around the world from places like Germany, France, the Netherlands, Zimbabwe, and Brazil; and I also have the opportunity to attend weekend trips and events planned by the International Office. The University of Limerick is a much bigger school than Wofford, but I am loving experiencing a new and different kind of school. One of my favourite things to do on campus is to go on walks and explore the hidden charms near and around campus! I am also living in a six-bedroom apartment on campus with four first-year students from Germany, and a third-year student from the States. When I first arrived on campus I was a little worried that I would be missing out since I wasn’t technically in the “city centre,” but now that I have been in Ireland for the past three weeks, it is such a blessing living in an on-campus accommodation because the public transportation in Ireland is so accessible. The city centre is about a 15-20 minute bus ride, and I am beginning to become more comfortable with navigating the bus system in Limerick.

Over the next four months, some of my goals are to go outside of my comfort zone, join a few clubs and societies offered on campus (like the surf club and outdoors club), explore Ireland, and to take advantage of this incredible opportunity. See you next time!

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Yesterday marked three weeks back in Ecuador, and it’s been spent well. I’ve done some quick trips with friends and my host family while also starting classes at USFQ. I have been quickly reminded of why I fell in love with this country last year: it’s gorgeous.

The biggest cultural transition for me has been living with my host family. Elizabeth and Victor have been amazing and their children have treated me like I’m their brother. I’m grateful to be so comfortable at home here in Cumbayá, a suburb in the “valley,” a large area around 5 miles away from Quito but 3000ft. lower in elevation.

As I settled into my new housing, I couldn’t help but feel a little sad at how much I missed out the last time I studied abroad in Quito. We lived in hotels or apartments the entire semester, and it was a lot harder to integrate myself into the local culture. However, staying with my host family, I’ve gone out with one of their daughters, Leslie, and her friends. Additionally, this past weekend, we went down the Andes into the Amazon region to spend time with my host dad’s sister and to check on my host brother’s dragonfruit farms. It feels so good to be incorporated into Ecuadorian culture through people who care for me.

I want to focus on two aspects of Ecuadorian culture that greatly differ from my own: the language and the culinary scene. For starters, obviously, Spanish is the official language. It’s why I came back to Ecuador as a Spanish major! While I feel very comfortable in Spanish, I will admit that I arrive at home absolutely exhausted every night after sitting through my classes, which are all taught in Spanish. Naturally, as Spanish isn’t my first language, it uses a bit more brain power to sit through classes, take notes, and submit assignments (hence why I sleep like an absolute baby nightly). However, with this, I will say that I’m quickly becoming used to everything being conducted in Spanish as my control of the language in an academic setting continues to grow.

As for the culinary scene, Ecuadorian food is very different, in my opinion, from food in the United States. Admittedly, I have lost a few pounds since being here. It’s absolutely not that I haven’t eaten my fair share of food, but the food here is generally healthier than the food I find at home. Sitting in my third week, I am starting to get a bit tired of white rice. Don’t get me wrong, I love rice, and my host mom’s rice is delicious; however, I try to go out and get dinner with friends at least twice a week to give myself a bit of a rice-break. Furthermore, the food here in Ecuador is so good, but I have been reminded that it’s a bit repetitive in nature. Soup, chicken, beef, rice, and salad are staple items. At least two of them will be part of each meal. Again, I’m not trying to complain whatsoever; however, it does become a bit repetitive (still delicious, though!). Of note, yesterday, I had cuy (Guinea Pig) for the first time in three years. I forgot how similar it was to rotisserie chicken! I will admit, though, that I had to dismiss the idea of a PetSmart Guinea Pig out of my mind while eating it.

Lastly, I wanted to add that, after being robbed last semester on public transport, I have had a heightened awareness of pickpockets while out and about on the streets. I understand that pickpockets are also common in the US, but cases in Ecuador are the highest of any country in the Americas. Moreover, as Ecuador is a developing country who’s economy has also been heavily impacted by the Russia/Ukraine situation this year, cases of theft have risen by 29% since February. I have not let this ruin my experience; however, I do have to remind myself to be vigilant about my things when I’m out in town. Again, this is not to deter anyone from studying abroad or traveling in general, but some of my friends that I have met at USFQ have been robbed since being here (mainly for being in the wrong place at the wrong time), so it never hurts to bring up safety while abroad!

The past three weeks have been full of big transitions, but I believe I’m getting to a point where I’ve got my routine established and have set down some “roots,” if you will. As the semester picks up speed and I solidify my routine as a local student, I’ll post another update. Until then, I’m simply enjoying the ride.

In today’s travel culture, some countries have relaxed a little, and allow travelers to enter and leave as they please, despite the ongoing problem of Covid. However, Taiwan is not one of those places. My first 7 days in Taiwan were spent in a very nice hotel, situated in the middle of Beitou; a city just northwest of Taipei. Most of that time was spent people watching and speed-running through orientation over zoom. The view of the mountains also helped relieve some of my boredom.

We finally escaped our quarantine on September 1, which was also the first day of in person classes. I’m currently living with 4 other amazing students in an apartment off campus. Even though the commute to National Taiwan University is a 30 minute journey (including the subway), the location of our apartment is very convenient. We’re surrounded by the culture and language in a way that forces us to act as if we were locals; an experience that would have been watered down if we lived closer to the center of Taipei.

The weather here is nothing I’ve experienced. I thought South Carolina had unbearably hot summers, but Taiwan’s humidity has it beat. Not only that, but it rains everyday. Everyone carries an umbrella here because the rain comes with no warning. Despite that and the heat, there is surprisingly not a lot of harsh sunlight, which is great for those who don’t like to wear sunglasses. Because of the humidity and heat, a lot of people wear linen type clothing or anything that flows.

The main difference that I’ve noticed in terms of society, is how independent young people are, especially with transportation. There are even elementary school kids who walk to and from school by themselves with no problems. Another big difference, which is somewhat an inconvenience for me, is the wide usage of paper and coin money. In America, most people have transitioned to using debit and credit cards, but Taiwan is still big on using actual cash. I struggle carrying all of the coins. Hopefully, I’ll use them up buying nice souvenirs.

Pre-Departure Jitters

Hello! My name is Sydney Partin, and I am currently a junior Humanities major with a business minor here at Wofford! This fall, I will be studying abroad in London, England, and I cannot wait!

Ever since I could remember, I have dreamed of studying abroad, and it is hard to believe it is right around the corner. When deciding where to spend my semester abroad, I reflected on my previous trip to London several years ago. I fell in love with the city and have been itching to go back ever since, and what better way to return than studying there?  Deciding on the specific program was a bit more difficult, as each one offered really unique and interesting experiences. I eventually chose the IES Study London Program, which drew my attention as it not only allows me to take interesting classes that will apply towards my major, but also allows me to participate in a part-time internship while abroad.

With my departure only a few days away, my nerves for the upcoming semester are all too apparent. Although I have already completed two years of college away from home, being in another country adds a new level of jitters that I hope will dissolve once I am all settled in London. So many things have crossed my mind in the last few days – what if I miss a train and can’t figure out the tube system? What if my luggage gets lost? What if I need to call my mom about a minor inconvenience, and it is two in the morning back at home? All of these anxieties are to be expected with traveling alone for the first time.

Although I am nervous, however, my excitement definitely overshadows these nerves. I cannot wait to be in London and experience everything the city has to offer! I have been packing and getting everything ready, which has been an interesting process as I love to procrastinate. I am most excited to meet everyone in my program, as well as exploring London and other parts of Europe. Although somewhat cheesy, I believe this semester abroad will provide excellent opportunities for growth in areas such as independence, confidence, and broadening my horizons. I am very grateful for the opportunity to study abroad, especially in London, and I am so excited to see where this semester leads me!

Pre-departure Jitters

While preparing to leave the country, I feel anxious, excited, and curious about the unknown. Rome is notorious for its rich culture, exquisite food, and historical architecture; it seems surreal that I will get to experience it in a matter of three days. Although, where there is excitement, there are also many concerns that have crossed my mind. I find myself wondering what the sociopolitical climate is for women of color in Italy. How will I actually figure out public transportation? Will I be pickpocketed at every turn? 

In contrast, I hope that I soak in all that Italy has to offer. I hope to meet locals and appreciate the country’s customs and traditions. I also look forward to learning more about European politics and foreign affairs from an Italian and Mediterranean perspective. 

My decision to study abroad largely stems from my passion for learning about international relations. At first, the study abroad experience seemed way out of my comfort zone. But, because of the OIP staff, and friends that studied abroad the previous fall semester, and interim, I felt comfortable enough to give it a shot. 

I remember brainstorming about places where I would feel comfortable learning and living for three months without my parents. Then, I considered places that I had always dreamed of visiting or living in. Italy, France, and Africa came to mind, more specifically Rome, Paris, and Morrocco. This past fall I was taking a plethora of international relations and government courses, which heavily discussed comparing states societies. As the course progressed we covered more topics around the European Union, which sparked my interest in Italy’s role in it all. 

Overall, I am nervous to travel outside of the United States but I am hopeful for the new memories and experiences that lie ahead of me in Rome. I plan to journal and reflect upon what I’m experiencing often. Most importantly, I will be intentional about being present at the moment, to fully appreciate the experience.

• Aix en Provence
• Austria
• Copenhagen
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• France
• Freiburg
• Germany
• Italy
• Milan
• Nice
• Prague
• Seville
• Spain
• Uncategorized
• Vienna