High Impact Travel Experiences
Experience 1: Studying Abroad in Florence, Italy
Studying abroad in Florence, Italy provided a transformative academic and cultural experience that expanded both my global perspective and creative practice. While abroad, I studied international business and fashion illustration, exploring how cultural context influences global markets, design aesthetics, and consumer behavior. Florence’s historical significance in art and fashion allowed me to connect classroom concepts with real-world industry influences, deepening my understanding of international trade, branding, and visual storytelling. In addition to my coursework, I traveled to fifteen European countries, gaining firsthand exposure to diverse economic systems, cultural traditions, and design philosophies. Navigating unfamiliar environments strengthened my adaptability, independence, and cross-cultural communication skills. This experience broadened my worldview and reinforced the importance of global awareness in both business strategy and creative industries, shaping how I approach collaboration and innovation in an increasingly interconnected world.
Participating in an Outdoor Adventures trip to Tennessee challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and develop resilience through experiential learning in a natural environment. During the trip, I camped with fellow students and explored Whirley’s Cave, an experience that required teamwork, problem-solving, and trust while navigating unfamiliar and physically demanding conditions. Caving encouraged me to confront uncertainty and adapt quickly, fostering confidence and perseverance in situations that required both individual responsibility and collective support. Living and traveling in an outdoor setting also emphasized the importance of environmental awareness and mindful leadership within a group dynamic. This experience strengthened my appreciation for experiential education and demonstrated how personal growth often occurs through challenge and immersion in new environments.
Experience 2: Caving in Tennessee with Outdoor Adventures
Experience 3: Fall Break Trip
to NYC with Honors
The Honors Program trip to New York City provided an immersive opportunity to engage with cultural, historical and artistic experiences beyond the classroom. During fall break, I explored key landmarks including the Statue of Liberty while gaining a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of the city. A highlight of the trip was attending three Broadway performances, which offered insight into professional storytelling and performance at the highest level. Experiencing live theatre in New York expanded my understanding of artistic expression and reinforced the value of creativity as a form of communication and cultural connection. Traveling alongside fellow Honors students also fostered meaningful conversations and shared learning experiences, strengthening my sense of community while encouraging intellectual curiosity and cultural exploration.
