GEO Blog

Welcome to the GEO BLOG!

This is a forum for students to share their thoughts and reflections during their time abroad. Read up about the latest happenings from Vandy students abroad, or submit your own thread for posting.

Thread 1: What's the best part of study abroad?

Brian Ernst, Vienna Spring 2007 wrote:

"The best part of study abroad has been living in a city and getting to know it as more than a tourist, but as a resident. There's no pressure to get out and see everything since there's so much time to do the touristy things. Instead you can wander the city, do what average people do like go grocery shopping at the market, or sit in a cafe for a few hours and do homework. Its great since you feel as if you have learned more about what the place is beyond the major landmarks that populate it. "

Xan Paxton, University of Adelaide, Spring 2007 wrote:

"I think the best part of study abroad has to be the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, to see the world from the point of view of another country.  I feel like I understand international issues and outlooks a little better.  The residential colleges here are also great.  They make you feel like you've got a family here."

Nina Nelson, CET Florence, Spring wrote"

"The best part of study abroad is getting away from all the familiarities of home life and learning who you really are. That is also the hardest part, but it is such a valuable learning experience, particularly at this age in life. Of course, the availability of travel is also wonderful. My favorite places that I have been so far are definitely Rome, and I also loved Pisa. We just got back from a week in Rome and it was fabulous. Our teacher, Peter, took us all over and showed us the things that most guide books wouldn’t bother to mention. He studied at the Vatican for two years, so he is brilliant and had so much insight on where to take us and what to tell us about. Pisa was also a great day trip…the tower really does lean."