Japanese Culture and Technical Communication – Maymester 2026

Japan study abroad was the most rewarding experience in my freshman year at UTD. I met lots of good people in my class and shared lots of funny memories. This study abroad was my first time in Japan, having a roommate, and traveling without family.

There were two moments that bonded us at the beginning of our time abroad: Tokyo Tower and Mount Inari.

My class went to tour the Tokyo Tower and were split into two groups. My group took the elevator up to the top observatory and toured around first. We took lots of photos and saw the kofun (tomb/keyhole) from our Japanese history class. When it was time to exit, we followed the arrows on the floor pointing to a stairway. We never thought that if we took the elevator up, there must be an elevator down, so about four of us took the stairs down. I was halfway down when my classmate called me saying that they will take the elevator down, and here I was, halfway down, thinking why didn’t I think of the elevator? So we embarked on our journey down until we saw a pickleball court in the middle of the tower. It gave good laughs to my class.

In Kyoto, my friends and I (six of us) hiked up Mount Inari and took the dirt path up to avoid the crowd on the main path. The path was very uneven with steep steps, but the hidden bamboo forest was very beautiful.

After almost two hours, we found civilization, and I asked a Japanese elder where the restroom was. Of course we didn’t understand him, but he pointed to a sign that said waterfall and spiraled his hands around. We followed his gestures and went down a literal spiral staircase to a waterfall with a restroom next to what seemed like a graveyard. Thank goodness there was still daylight because the restroom had no lights. The restroom had a bucket of water to flush it and a handwashing station outside with a box asking for 100 yen. We laughed so much because we took the dirt path up and found a sketchy toilet! 

After twenty minutes, we climbed to the top to meet up with the other four who took the main path. They asked if we saw warning signs for boars, but we saw none on the dirt path. This was by far my favorite memory because half of the class climbed to the top of Mount Inari, and these people became my good friends.

Studying abroad in Japan was a very rewarding experience as I got to see the cultural differences, but more importantly, I got to make memories with my friends. I learned so much about independence and friendship from my encounters with classmates and Japanese people.

Shelley Hua, Japanese Culture and Technical Communication, Maymester 2026

Maymester in Pretoria, South Africa

Studying abroad in South Africa was definitely my most memorable trip to date. During my Maymester, I traveled with the UTD Chamber Singers, as we performed across several parts of Pretoria centered around the sharing of music between separate cultures. We collaborated with the Tuks Camerata, a choral group from the University of Pretoria (UP), where we had the privilege of singing alongside them on their campus. Beyond the concert, I had the opportunity to experience South African culture firsthand, from making new friends at UP to ending the trip at a game lodge where we were able to see lions and other native animals in their natural habitat. Although this wasn’t a traditional study abroad focused on lectures or classroom learning, it taught me valuable lessons through music and the experiences I was privileged to be a part of.

During the first week of our study abroad in Pretoria, we stayed in a hotel that was within walking distance from the University of Pretoria. We arrived in Pretoria on Sunday, May 17, and almost the entirety of our first week was spent rehearsing our music for the concert at UP on Saturday. To say that we were singing a lot would be an understatement. Each day we spent several hours perfecting each and every part of our repertoire. During this week, we would also go to UP twice to watch and listen to the Tuks Camerata rehearse their music. These rehearsals were so mesmerizing since they had such determination to put all of themselves into the music they were singing. On top of the singing being amazing, they danced along to several traditional Zulu pieces they were performing. It was so beautiful to watch as they put their heart and souls into all the songs they sang each day. 

On Saturday, we headed over to UP to watch and perform with the Tuks Camerata. The Tuks Camerata performed first with their western pieces (typical choral music) and my goodness, did they sound better than ever! Having been able to watch them rehearse the past week elevated my enjoyment of their performance as I could sing along in my head knowing what was coming next. The harmonies they created were out of this world and are something I will most likely hear only once in my life. 

Afterward, it was our turn to walk onto the stage in front of hundreds of audience members. I was nervous at first, but once we began singing, those nerves quickly disappeared. Months of preparation and an entire week of rehearsals came together in one unforgettable performance. Finally, after several local South African high school choirs performed, Tuks Camarata got back on stage to sing their South African pieces. The dancing and emotions they displayed on stage that night were magical. It felt surreal to be able to watch such a magnificent concert.

Now with the first week behind us, it was finally time to relax and learn about all of Pretoria and Johannesburg. One of the most memorable parts of our second week was visiting a game lodge for 3 days, where we got to see lions, giraffes, hippos, and much more in their natural habitat. Each day there, we would go on game drives where we were able to see so much nature and learn lots of facts from our guides about South African landscapes. Outside of the game drives, we spent time exploring the lodge together, strengthening the friendships we had built throughout the trip.

Although our study abroad revolved around music, I came back home with much more than improved musicality. Experiencing South Africa’s culture taught me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace others’ perspectives. I was able to see firsthand how music can connect people of all kinds, despite differences in language, backgrounds, and culture. This made me realize that some of the most impactful learning happens outside of the classroom.

This Maymester has become one of the defining moments of who I have become through college. I will always remember the friendships I made, the bonds I formed, and the memories we created together. I would encourage anyone thinking of studying abroad to take the opportunity. It is such an unforgettable experience creating stories that can be shared forever.

Peter Hoeppner, Masihambe! Sing and Study Choral Music in South Africa, Maymester 2026

Music in Prague – Maymester 2026

Dobry den, everyone! I hit the jackpot on my first ever study abroad experience by going to Prague through the Music 1306 program because of the cultural experience, friendship that I fostered while abroad, Prague’s safety and its living cost. I was in Prague for a Maymester, which was 6 weeks in person at UTD, and 2 weeks in Prague, with the weekend abroad without any scheduled activities.

This was my first time having a roommate beside my sister, and I was very anxious about this, but I didn’t have to because my roommate, Asha, turned out to be one of my best friend on this trip. Since I’m a planner, I would finalize places that I want to go to the night before, and it’s amazing having a roommate because she would always be the first person to join me on my plan. I’m good by myself, but hang outs are more fun with friends.

My process for choosing a study abroad program was putting all the courses that don’t have a pre-req into a spin the wheel and let fate decides for me, and it chose Prague, Czech. I didn’t know anything about Prague before I got accepted into the program, then, I found out that it’s a country in Europe, and then I found spots to see and spots to eat (see above: I’m a planner), what I didn’t expect was how the cobblestone streets are picturesque. I miss waking up early everyday and just stare at the open window that overlooks the beautiful house across the street because I’m amazed every time that I’m in Prague.

I want to have a special shout out to Katie, our CIEE coordinator because CIEE and my professor has arranged for us such a comprehensive list of museums that’s related to music, from Czech composers’ museums, such as the Dvorak museum and the Smetana museum, to the National Theatre where I got to watch my first ever opera in my life. The opera was eye opening, and it has officially establish a baseline for every opera in my life that I don’t think any in the future could compete with it, part of it was because the National Theatre atmosphere was very grandiose that it enhanced the opera experience, part of it was because of my friends that I watched it with, Cathy, who quickly became my favorite person along with Asha during my 2 weeks abroad. One really funny interaction that I remember at the opera is the row in front of us were full of students our age, but they were speaking a foreign language. I thought they were speaking Czech, but my friend thought they were speaking German, so he asked them “Excuse me, are you speaking German?”, and they said yes, they are also on a school trip, they are originally from Frankfurt. Isn’t it so romantic how all of us study abroad students all meet up at the same place (National Theatre in Prague), to watch the same play (Turandot by Puccini)? 

Diep Tran, Music In Prague, Maymester 2026

Maymester in Switzerland – Value Chain and Sustainability Practicum

By Kacie Nguyen

This past May, I had the wonderful chance to have my first European experience in Switzerland. Visiting Switzerland was truly lifechanging. Every time I opened my eyes when sleeping on the bus or train, it would be the most beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains that I’d ever seen. Through this trip, not only did I get to experience a new culture and way of living, but it was very educational; I received a lecture on ethical sourcing in supply chain from the OST university there, and I visited five different companies and learned about their sustainability initiatives. 

My group and I stayed in a more remote hostel 30 minutes away from the city of Rapperswil-Jona by the lake. The first thing we would smell in the morning was probably cow manure, so that took a little while to get used to. However, it was truly beautiful anywhere we looked as the lakes and mountains were right next to us. One of my favorite parts was all the friendly cats roaming the large fields of grass, and they looked so small in comparison to everything else; I would like to be one of those cats in my next life. However, one thing that I do not miss was the abundance of gnats and how multiple swarms would be along the trail to the city. 

Although a smaller city, Rapperswil-Jona felt so homey and relaxing. It was right next to the lake, and I would walk down the pier and watch the sunset every night I could. Life really felt like it moved at a slower pace, and I greatly appreciated that. I also really enjoyed how walkable the cities of Switzerland were and how expansive their public transportation is. Other cities I visited and thoroughly enjoyed include Zurich, St. Gallen, and Lucerne. I even got to visit Liechtenstein, which is a different country, for a day!

My favorite part of the entire trip was definitely Mount Rigi. The best part was the train taking us all the way up to the peak of the mountain. We didn’t even have to hike up!! I also realized how accessible this was for disabled people and older folks. Standing at the highest point on Mount Rigi, I actually had never seen such a beautiful sight in my entire life. It felt like I was truly inside a painting. I still cannot believe I got to experience Switzerland as I had always wanted to visit since I was young.

One last fun fact about Switzerland that makes me laugh is that German people view the Swiss as hillbillies. It’s really funny considering how technologically advanced and innovative Switzerland is. If you’re a business student interested in supply chain sustainability, I definitely encourage you to go on this once-in-a-lifetime study abroad opportunity!

[JSOM] Value Chain and Sustainability Practicum – Maymester 2026

Lethal Crimes and Public Policy in the European Union

This past summer, I had the honor to be a part of a four-week study abroad program in Lugano, Switzerland. The class in this program was Lethal Crimes and Public Policy in the European Union, and was instructed by Dr. Denise Boots and Dr. John Worrall.

My study abroad experience was absolutely amazing. It was better than I imagined. Lugano was gorgeous, the Franklin Switzerland University staff and campus were incredible. Being this my first time in Europe, I had no expectations and truly knew nothing about how the European Union functioned much less Switzerland. So, it was something new, but very rewarding.

The most rewarding part was definitely the traveling. I have always loved to travel, and it was amazing going from country to country, and honestly very easy given that most countries are small, so it’s easier to cover more land. I will say the most challenging part was to be away from home. I am a commuter student at UTD, so I always end the day by seeing my parents and my dog. So, the first week was harder than the rest, trying to keep a schedule that would align with my sleep and speaking with my parents. I want to say I grew in many ways during this trip. I formed strong bonds with people I lived with and had only known for a couple of weeks. I was able to strictly stay on track with my schoolwork given the flexibility of the classes. Most importantly, I was able to grow as an individual by being more independent than when I left home. I had no one to keep track of me or check up on me like my mom did daily, so it was good to know I could do it myself when I’m far from home. Some tips I have for future study abroad students are to take advantage and appreciate each moment. When I first arrived, I thought a month was going to be so long, and it was far away from being over. I was very wrong, once we started class and got to know each other, the weeks went by incredibly fast.

Value and cherish those memories made while abroad; you’re going to have inside jokes, funny moments and sad moments to look back to. My experience was absolutely amazing, but there were times where I was exhausted and tired and ready to go home. One good recommendation that I would like to end this with is, please check your bank statements, I spent way more than I thought I would.

Maria Sanchez Rodriguez, Lethal Crimes & Civil Rights in the European Union, Summer 2025

Summer Studying Abroad in Lugano, Switzerland

                                    Lugano, Switzerland

This past summer, I had the amazing opportunity to be a part of a four week study abroad program in Lugano, Switzerland. This program went over the topic of the death penalty and European Union criminal procedures and had Dr. Denise Boots and Dr. John Worrall as the leader of the program.  Since I am a Crim major and have always wanted to visit Switzerland, this was a chance that I couldn’t let get away! Although I already had high hopes before going on to study abroad, actually being there easily surpassed my expectations. I didn’t go into the program thinking it was just going to be a vacation for me, but an actual chance to experience new cultures and learn more about topics that were critical to excelling in my major. The program was a perfect mix of fun activities, social interaction, and in depth teachings about the course topics. Living and studying in Lugano, Switzerland was such a surreal experience. Every view you looked at took your breath away and I must have lost about ten pounds from walking everywhere! It’s very noticeable that it is much more walkable and not as car centric as many places in America are. Although I am usually reserved and mostly keep to myself, the beauty of this program brought out a new side that I had not yet discovered and allowed me to make friends with people I may have not close connections with back at home

                    Jungfraujoch, Switzerland(aka “Top of Europe”)

The most rewarding part was meeting new people and getting outside of my comfort zone doing things I would never do at home. A year ago I would have never imagined going to a country on the other side of the world for a month, but did just that and thrived while doing it as well. On the other hand, the most challenging aspect of this was adapting to the transportation system of Europe. I lost count on how many times I almost missed a train or bus! These challenges and rewards helped me grow as a person by making me realize that if you have the means and willpower, you don’t have to be so constricted based on what you think is possible or not. If you want to do something and are able to do so, then just do it! We only have one life so might as well make it a life worth living.

Beautiful town of Schloss Thun that sits upon Lake Thun

                Cows grazing in Grindelwald, Switzerland

What I suggest for future study abroad students is to always listen to your professor! More likely than not, they have been there before and know how things work and operate. You’re in a foreign place so it is definitely wise to listen to those who know more about where you are. I would also recommend socializing as much as you can because you could make lifelong friends on study abroad. Personal connections are always something to cherish and I am so grateful that I could make some of those connections and experience something I never thought I would before!

Jekovan Daniels, Lethal Crimes & Civil Rights in the European Union, Summer 2025

Comparative Cultures: US & Finland

Soumenlinna, Finland

Helsinki, FInland

This Maymester, I had the opportunity to travel to Finland to participate in a study abroad program. I chose to go to Finland for several reasons, but the main one was my interest in the course. I took SOC 4375, Gender and Work, which was a comparative study of how gender influences organizational culture and workplace environments in Finland compared to the United States. Before leaving for Finland, my class had multiple opportunities to visit American-based companies such as ULTA, Illes Foods, and Peterbilt. This was a fantastic opportunity to get an inside look at how companies in the U.S. navigate topics such as parental leave policies, diversity in the workplace, and women in leadership positions. Our first week in Finland was spent in a college town called Jyväskylä. This town’s population is small and primarily consists of university students. The first few days were challenging for my UTD peers and me as we were feeling homesick. The small-town environment and slow pace of life were a harder adjustment than many of us had anticipated. However, the charm of Jyväskylä overpowered any lingering homesickness, and we quickly grew excited to explore the city.

Tallinn, Estonia

I was amazed by the scenery of beautiful lakes and towering birch trees. In Jyväskylä, we spent the week at JAMK University, where we had the opportunity to take classes alongside Finnish students who had chosen to enroll in the same Maymester course. We had multiple engaging class discussions that provided a deeper understanding of the Finnish students’ perspectives on gender, work, and how they navigate these topics within Finnish culture. Our second week was spent in the nation’s capital, Helsinki. The busy city was a stark but pleasant contrast to the slower pace of Jyväskylä. We got to explore the city and tour many historical landmarks. A Sociology Professor at the University of Helsinki hosted a tour for our class, which ended in a fascinating lecture regarding her postdoctoral research. Toward the end of our trip, we had a fantastic opportunity to take a short ferry ride to Estonia’s capital, Tallinn. Having the chance to travel to two countries was one of my favorite parts of my study abroad experience. My study abroad experience gave me new friends, an opportunity to explore new topics within my major, and unforgettable memories in two beautiful countries

Reanna Achmar, Comparative Cultures: US & Finland, Maymester 2025

Hidden in Bristol with Aardman Animation

Studying abroad was something I never thought about doing until last year when applications opened up for Animation Studies in Bristol with Aardman Animations. In fact, I believed for the longest time I would never be able to do something like this because of my hidden disability. This past Maymester however, I had the chance to take a leap of faith, and I learned more than I thought when jumping at this opportunity.

My main goal from this study abroad was to gain new insight and inspiration for my own personal work, in order to help me understand the animation industry as a whole. Getting out of my comfort zone and trying new things was rather challenging for someone like me who thrives on routine. Between flying out of the United States for the first time, sleeping somewhere new and trying new foods, I was overwhelmed with the sheer number of things thrown at me on this trip. I had done a lot within those past two weeks abroad, many of which had been out of my comfort zone; however, I also really learned to listen to myself when something came up. It was also such a great experience getting to open up with the friends I had made on this trip. I hadn’t felt pressured or judged one bit by the people I did this study abroad with and I think that’s what made this worthwhile especially.

During my study abroad, I faced several challenges with my disability getting in the way of it. Being late diagnosed Autistic, I felt a sense of alienation among my peers when first getting settled in. It was hard for me to open up and explain why I do certain things the way do. Between sensory processing issues, dealing with frequent verbal shutdowns and having to take frequent breaks in between activities, I was very hard on myself as I felt like a burden to the rest of my group. I learned however, that having a great support system really helped me in the long run. My classmates were all super understanding and I ended up bonding with many of them very well with all of our shared interests. Being able to be open up to not just my peers but also to my professor and even the industry professionals at Aardman Animations, really helped me advocate for myself. Academically I learned a lot through this study abroad, however I learned ways I can advocate for myself in this kind of creative industry such as studios like Aadrman Animations, where 23% of their employees are neurodivergent in some way.

Despite my disability disabling many times on this trip, I do not regret studying abroad one bit. I learned so much about the culture, the animation industry and I learned so much about myself. While studying abroad may not be for everyone, it doesn’t hurt to take that leap of faith into something you’ve been wanting to do for a long time.

Kristina Hernandez, Animation Studies: Aardman Studio Spotlight, Maymester 2025

Maymester in Finland

This past May, I had the privilege and opportunity to visit and learn in two beautiful cities in Finland: Jyväskylä and Helsinki! Initially, I had no idea what to expect as I have never previously visited Europe. But Finland was an amazing introduction. Throughout the course, Dr. Skaggs had many excursions and educational experiences lined up that did not feel like schoolwork, but informative and memorable. We had the opportunity to learn alongside and even become friends with Finnish students. With these students, we exchanged cultures and got to know one another. We got to explore the cities, enjoy the food, learn the culture, and actively participate in it. 

My favorite part during my study abroad experience was definitely getting to know my fellow peers from UTD better. This course allowed me to immerse myself in another culture, but it also gave me lifelong friends that I probably would not have interacted with if it were not for this trip. I got to know people from different majors, and it was refreshing to hear about everyone’s academic journeys and what led all of us to the same study abroad course. Every day, we would plan out many activities to try and squeeze into the days that began to feel so short, and we got to explore a foreign place together. We brought home unforgettable memories and new friendships. I am so grateful for this experience and for anyone debating whether they should attend a study abroad, DO IT! This course not only put course concepts into life through a different culture but gave me new experiences and new friends.

Cat Nguyen, A Comparative Examination of Organizations, Culture, and Gender: Finland and U.S., Maymester 2025

Aboard in Toulouse, France

When I registered for the course EE4V95, the classroom was quite peaceful, and not many of my classmates were talking to each other. So, I expected that I wouldn’t have any conversations with my classmates during the class in Toulouse, France. However, the trip turned out to be amazing. I got to know all of my classmates, and not just me, but everyone ended up having great conversations and bonding with each other.

On the first day at the airport, I was nervous because it was my first time traveling outside the U.S. by myself, and my flight had two layovers before reaching the final destination. Wearing the shirt given by the school, one of my classmates recognized me and we talked a little, which felt like a good sign that the trip would be a positive experience. Unfortunately, my flight was delayed, and my luggage didn’t arrive on time, but I still made it to the destination. Despite those setbacks, it felt like my luck was balancing out afterward. The bus ride into the city offered phenomenal scenery. People were out running, walking, and biking around the city. For the first time, I heard someone speaking French in real life, which was awesome. The weather was perfect that day. I walked to the Casino supermarket to buy some essentials. It was a decent-sized store with everything I needed. The streets were lively, and since the sun didn’t set until around 9:20 PM, I felt safe walking around. The best thing in here that I almost forgot to mention was the transportation; there were underground metro system that was so convenient to travel anywhere around the city with it, which encouraged a lot of people walking around here.

Toulouse was incredible. We were able to see many beautiful historical buildings and learned about the history behind the castle and the place where we temporarily stayed.

From the second day through the weekend, our class mostly communicated via Discord and WhatsApp, which helped us gather and do fun things together like eating, walking around, and having conversations. Over time, we became much closer, something that didn’t happen before the trip. We also took a tour around Toulouse, where we saw grand and historical buildings that made it feel like we were traveling back in time. The church stood out with its detailed, artistic architecture and sacred with enormous structure. Later, we visited the Garonne River, which was fantastic. Many people were sitting by the riverside chatting, and the bridge was in great shape despite its age.

We also bonded over food. One thing we noticed was how much French people love bread. It was served with almost every meal. The food was incredible. We got to try local specialties like sausage, duck, and cassoulet. There was also a wide variety of cuisines including French, Italian, and Japanese, which showed the city’s diversity. My favorite was the cassoulet. It had variety of meat, and beat inside, which made me full . Interestingly, even though tipping is not expected in France, the service was still very good.

One of the most valuable technical experiences of the trip was visiting Qorvo in France. We learned a lot about ultra-wideband technology and had insightful conversations with industry professionals. The difference between Qorvo in France and in the U.S. wasn’t major, but I noticed that people in France prioritize life outside of work more, which made me realize that their quality of life seemed better. We also visited INSA University, where we heard presentations from professors specializing in topics we studied in class. They covered EMC, antennas, and integrated circuits, which helped us better understand their real-world applications.

One of the most memorable parts was our interaction with French students. We talked about differences and similarities in our academic experiences. It seemed most of them were pursuing master’s degrees and had internships early on, which gave them valuable industry experience. Their tuition was mostly covered by the government, and they repay it later through taxes, giving every student a fair shot at education without financial stress.

The highlight of the trip was visiting Carcassonne. The castle was massive and impressive. We learned that it was built over generations using different techniques, which were visible in the walls and architecture. It took a lot of energy to explore the entire castle, but it was worth it. The round walls and structural designs had clear purposes for defense, like archery positions, lookout points, and places to throw rocks. Inside the castle, there were many shops and restaurants, which made it even more fascinating.

During our final week, we went on the Albi trip. It was unforgettable. The river along the way was so beautiful we couldn’t resist taking photos. My favorite part was visiting the Cathédrale Saint-Cécile. The entrance alone was breathtaking and felt like pure art. Inside, there were detailed figures, and you could listen to audio explanations about each section. On the way back to the hotel, I was so exhausted that I nearly fell asleep on the train, a sign of just how enjoyable the day was.

We also visited Emitech, a company specializing in EMC testing. We got to see anechoic chambers, ESD setups, reverberation chambers, and environmental testing labs such as thermal shock, altitude, dust resistance, and vibration. It was an incredible learning experience, and the representatives gave very thorough explanations. Another highlight was the Victor Hugo Market, which had a massive variety of fresh vegetables and meats. We even played a fun game to see who could find things the fastest.

On the last day, we had a farewell dinner with all our classmates, tour staff, and professor at the restaurant La Kasbah. The atmosphere was full of laughter and good food. Even though I was already full, I still had room for dessert. We stayed nearly until midnight and took one last walk through Toulouse before heading back to the hotel. We said our goodbyes and farewell.

Traveling alone was nerve-racking at first, but it turned out to be more fun than I expected. I made new friends, learned a few words in French, tried new foods, and explored amazing places. This trip gave me so many experiences, both in technical learning and personal growth through everyday conversations. I loved every part of it.

Kevin Chieng- Introduction to Electromagnetic Compatibility and Applications of RF Engineering in Toulouse, France- Maymester 2025

May-semester in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Visiting the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador was the most unique, thrilling, and retrospective experience. It provided me a lot of insight and history of the islands and its significance. Those two weeks went by fast but it was definitely worth the time and commitment. It was a struggle at first for me because I had never traveled alone and it was a mix of excitement and nervousness. But my group I went with was so welcoming and friendly that it felt like I had nothing to worry about. I now call that group a family because it created good friendships and bonds I wouldn’t want to have experienced anywhere else.

The first place we spent in Quito and did a tour of the city and its most cited catholic churches like the Basilica del Voto Nacional which is known for its beautiful architecture and history. Then we flew out to San Cristobal and stayed with a host family for the first week which I can call another home. Very welcoming people and the food was the most delicious. I even learned how to cook the beef stew which had a tender yet savory taste to it. During the week in San Cristobal, it was full of activities like hiking through the highlands, snorkeling, swimming, and even visiting the Interpretation center where it talked about the culture and history of San Cristobal.

Next, I was staying in Isabela for two nights and I got to walk around the small city and explore the mini marts and discover its comfort food. Definitely recommend trying their plantains, very popular and a go to snack for the Ecuadorians. We got to explore the beach as well for its flat shallow shores and then did a 10 mile walk to the volcanic rock which was a journey but with the view. Next, we traveled to Santa Cruz and that was a wonderful time spent. Went to the Charles Darwin Foundation and learned about the molecular evolution of animals of finches, tortoises, and marine life. Surprise guest of our dean of NS&M, David Hyndman, came to visit and taught us a lesson of geology which is his speciality. Then we saw the exhibit and lab where they continue to study species and discover a new species.

Definitely a once in a lifetime experience and I would recommend plenty of times. Everyone that coordinated and behind the itinerary was perfect and very welcoming. The friendships I’ve made and a closer relationship with the professor also surprised me and made me enjoy traveling even more. I really appreciate the most that a UTD program like this was created and provided this experience for me and I definitely look forward to exploring more!

Yasmin Gay, Molecular Evolution at the Galapagos, Maymester 2025

Across Time and Borders: My Journey Through the History of Medicine in London and Scotland

This Maymester, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the History of Medicine study abroad program through UT Dallas. Over the course of several weeks, I traveled across London and Scotland, tracing the roots of medical knowledge and practice from the Greco-Roman period to the 20th century. What began as an academic exploration quickly became a personal journey—one that gave me a deeper appreciation for the human stories, ethical dilemmas, and cultural shifts that have shaped medicine into what it is today.

We started in London, a city layered with medical history. One of the most unforgettable visits was to The Old Operating Theatre Museum, tucked into the attic of a church near London Bridge. Standing in one of the oldest surviving surgical theaters in Europe, I could almost hear the echoes of pre-anesthesia operations and feel the tension of an era before antiseptics. It was a vivid reminder of how far medicine has come—and how painful and public it once was.

The Roman baths on our classical field trip to Bath, England

Near the Big Ben and the London eye

In class, we explored topics ranging from the role of barber-surgeons, who once performed bloodletting and amputations, to the rise of neurosurgery and more formalized medical education. We discussed the development of essential tools like the stethoscope, and how seemingly simple innovations transformed diagnostic medicine. Our studies often centered around case studies—real-life examples that brought historical moments to life and revealed how people understood disease, illness, and healing in vastly different ways across cultures and time periods.

In Edinburgh, Scotland, the atmosphere shifted but the medical legacy was just as rich. We toured the Surgeons’ Hall Museums, where we saw anatomical specimens and historical instruments that showed both the scientific ambition and moral complexity of early medicine. Edinburgh’s role in advancing medical education—particularly anatomy—was inspiring, but also sobering. We learned about the dark history of body snatching and the difficult choices students and doctors faced in the name of progress.

An anatomy lecture hall at the University of Edinburgh

Stirling Castle in Scotland

What made this program truly special was how immersive it was. Being physically present in the cities that gave rise to so many medical milestones made everything feel more tangible. It wasn’t just about memorizing dates or facts—it was about understanding how culture, war, religion, social class, and even architecture influenced how people viewed health and healing. It made me reflect on how we will be viewed in the future for the medical decisions we’re making today.

As someone interested in medicine, this experience expanded my understanding beyond biology and chemistry. It reminded me that medicine has always been, at its core, a human endeavor—driven by compassion, curiosity, and sometimes controversy. I returned to Dallas with not only a deeper academic understanding but also a stronger sense of purpose.

This program wasn’t just a study abroad trip—it was a walk through centuries of human resilience, innovation, and care. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of it.

Induja Asthigiri, History of Medicine in England & Scotland, Maymester 2025

Maymester in Finland

I always knew I wanted to study abroad, so one day I decided to see the options UTD offered and applied to a program and the IEF scholarship. The class I chose was SOC 4375, Gender and Work, in Finland. I went into the country knowing almost nothing about the culture except the basics, and a little bit of the language, which proved extremely helpful. The abroad portion was just two weeks, but it could not have been better.

Inside JAMK University

View from the Jyväskylä watchtower

The first week was spent in Jyväskylä, a small, walkable city whose quarter of the population is university students. in the university we got the chance to visit. We were able to visit JAMK (the university’s acronym) and meet some of the students, which I am beyond happy for the opportunity. This experience immersed all of us deeply into Finnish culture directly from the eyes of students like me. Finland is known for their reserved, minimalistic, and quiet nature, which struck us as soon as we arrived at the Helsinki airport. Not many places played music in the background, the architecture and decoration was very simplistic, and we learned people don’t like small talk. This forced me to take things slow for a second, a point the JAMK students and our class made was how Americans are constantly in a “go go go” state, which makes you feel like being still for a second is not productive. But the Finnish are not this way. In fact, a huge part of Finnish culture is sauna, a steaming hot room with löyly (water thrown on hot rocks) and peace. They take this moment to unwind and connect with family and friends. They even have more saunas than cars! One of my favorite things was using the hostel’s sauna at night with my friends, a time where we would simply chat and löyly. Having everything at walking distance was also a pleasure. We would walk amidst tall trees frequently, experiencing some of the most breathtaking views I have seen. Even the museums were designed to move slowly and allow you to take everything in.

Inside the Alvar Aalto Architectural Museum

Beautiful trees in Jyväskylä

A road in Tallinn, Estonia

My favorite photo from Suomenlinna, a nearby island

View from the stairs of the Helsinki Cathedral

The second week was in Helsinki, the capital. We had more to do, and more people around us, but even then, it was a quiet environment. The public transportation was easy to use, and we used it often. We visited market squares, museums, stadiums, churches, and many more places in Helsinki; we even visited Estonia, a whole other country! I enjoyed taking some time after a long day to meet up with my friends in one of our hostel rooms to talk and laugh. We had a restaurant, Cafe No. 9, that we went to relatively often to the point that one of the hosts recognized us. My class had a favorite word in Finnish that we learned through conversations with locals, and I know we’ll keep using outside of the country: kiitos, which means thank you. Kiitos, Finland. You were above and beyond every single one of my expectations!

Maria Belen Cecconato, Comparative Examination of Organizations, Culture and Gender: Finland and the US, Maymester 2025

People. Product. Planet. How Switzerland Shifted My Perspective on Business and Sustainability

When I signed up for the UTD Faculty-Led Program in Switzerland, I expected to learn about
sustainability in theory. What I didn’t expect was how deeply rooted sustainability is in
Swiss culture, education, and industry—and how much it would change the way I think
about global business.
During our academic visits and company tours, I learned how sustainability is not a side
effort in Switzerland; it is the foundation. From our visit to OST University to tours of
companies like Safran, Schindler, Thermoplan, and KVA Thurgau, we saw how
environmental and social responsibility is embedded into every step of the process.
At OST, sustainability was not a separate topic—it was part of every phase of student
innovation. Through hands-on, cross-disciplinary projects, students are trained to design
with the environment in mind. I was especially intrigued by how they consider biodiversity
in product design and lifecycle analysis. It helped me realize that every material choice,
production method, or packaging decision carries a ripple effect.
Company visits added another layer. At KVA Thurgau, Switzerland’s largest waste-to-energy
plant, we learned how their operations are designed to be self-sustaining, reusing their own
energy while releasing only water vapor and CO₂. Thermoplan impressed me with its
emphasis on durable, repairable machines and energy-efficient systems. And at Schindler,
we saw how sustainability goals extend to their supply chain—only partnering with
Ecovadis-certified suppliers.
The cultural mindset stood out the most. In the U.S., sustainability can sometimes feel like
a checklist or a corporate buzzword. In Switzerland, it’s a standard. It’s part of daily life,
whether in transportation, education, or how businesses operate. This shift in perspective
left me wondering: What would it look like if sustainability were our norm too?
One quote that stuck with me came from our Thermoplan visit: “People. Product. Planet.”
Those three words captured everything we experienced. Sustainable business is about
more than reducing waste—it’s about caring for people, building better products, and
protecting our planet for the long run.
This experience has made me more intentional about how I view business decisions and
has inspired me to pursue opportunities that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices.
Studying abroad wasn’t just about seeing a new country; it was about gaining a new
mindset—and I’m bringing that home with me.

Jennifer Arroyo | Global Business Major | UTD Faculty-Led Program in Switzerland, May
2025

Semester in Japan

I had an amazing time studying Japanese at Waseda University this past spring semester, it was truly an unforgettable experience! Although much of my time throughout the semester was spent in the Tokyo area, I spent the first two weeks before the semester began taking time to focus on traveling. For the first week, I focused largely on areas surrounding Tokyo, checking out a variety of local cafes and restaurants, shopping areas, and popular attractions like Tokyo Skytree and the Tokyo Joypolis arcade. From there, I stopped to visit Mt. Fuji before heading down to Kyoto for a couple days, exploring the historical landmarks in the area. After Kyoto, I headed to Osaka, where I spent one day at Universal Studios Japan, and the next visiting the Osaka Aquarium along with some local restaurants.

Photos: Tokyo Skytree at night; View of Mt. Fuji from Fujikawaguchiko, a nearby town.

After my two weeks of travel, I began settling in with my host family in the Saitama Prefecture just north of Tokyo. I was a little nervous at first, given that this was not only my first time outside of the US, but also my first time being away from my family for so long (the program lasted a full semester, so about four and a half months when including the first two weeks), but my host family were immediately welcoming and helped make me feel very at home (it also helped that my host siblings were into video games like me, haha).

While the spring semester at Waseda technically started on April first, (Japan’s semesters are a few months behind American semesters) I had a couple more weeks to get ready for my courses, which were primarily focused on Japanese as well as language overall. It was during these two weeks when I really got to experience what everyday life in Japan is like for the first time, getting familiar with the area, taking the local bus nearly every day (something which was especially new to me as a road trip-loving Texan), going shopping for supplies at the nearby supermarket (which was a two-minute walk from my host family’s house, thankfully), and of course going on the occasional mandatory 2 a.m. snack run to the nearest open convenience store, all of which became daily habits of mine that stuck with me for the rest of the semester.

Photo: View of the sunset over an open field in Asaka, Saitama, where I stayed during the semester.

As someone who has been studying Japanese since my freshman year of high school with plans of pursuing a career in translation, being able to not only dedicate an entire semester to learning Japanese, but also practice it daily with my host family (we spoke entirely in Japanese every day) provided a huge opportunity for improvement in the language as well as for networking with other people interested in translation. While I definitely still have a long way to go until I’m fluent, I was able to learn how to better express myself and engage in deeper, more meaningful conversations throughout my time there. Perhaps even more importantly, it enabled me to further immerse myself in the Japanese lifestyle, helping me better understand both how different life can be in other parts of the world, as well as the many ways in which life is the same no matter where you are.

Photos: The front gate and stairs leading to the Anahachimangu Shrine near Waseda University in Shinjuku; Oshi Castle, a historic site and museum in Saitama.

My time in Japan was truly eye-opening and something I’ll never forget. I’m extremely grateful for the Comets Abroad exchange program for providing me with this amazing opportunity, as well as the IEFS scholarship for helping me to spend my time there free of financial worry so I could focus on spending time getting to know the places and people around me. Traveling the world and experiencing other cultures firsthand is something I can’t recommend enough to anyone who is able, and I can’t wait to get to experience it again in the future.

Isaac Krok, Spring 2024 semester at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan

Summer in Florence

The best time of my life. This past summer I went to the Florence Maymester program for ECS 3390. It was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made. I spent the spring semester anticipating this program, and all expectations were exceeded. I had never traveled abroad alone, so this was truly a unique experience for me. Since the moment we landed, I could see how much of Florence was flourishing with history and culture. Fortunately, we were given an apartment in the center of town, just 2 minutes from the Duomo. Right in front of our apartment was Pino’s Sandwiches, one of the best sandwich shops in Florence; there would be long lines every day at lunch. Although we spent only two weeks in Florence, within those two weeks I was able to experience so many different things that I truly feel that after this experience I changed.

The beauty of Florence was its ability to maintain its pristine culture while simultaneously adapting to the developing world. Every morning we would walk down the street to the best cafe ever, get some coffee and some pastry (you cannot leave Florence without trying out a croissant), and my roommates would sit and talk until it was time to start walking to class. During this time I learned that Italians prefer to experience every meal instead of multitasking. In the United States, I became so used to going to a cafe to study and taking things to go that it was a little weird for me to go to a cafe just for coffee and only leave once I was done. Time felt different in Italy because even though my schedule was just as busy, there seemed to be more time as I was present in every moment and did not try to multitask at every moment. This new perspective allowed me to truly experience Florence, Rome, and Tuscany within two weeks without feeling overwhelmed. I was present in class during lectures, I was curious during the museum tours, and I was enthralled during the Vespa tours as we ventured around Tuscany.

Manogna Jonnalagadda

Professional & Technical Communication: Italy – Maymester 2024

Barcelona; El Espectåculo de su Vida

About a month ago, I embarked on a solo expedition into the city of Barcelona, Spain. My expectations were strong going into the Spanish country, having had a glimpse into the attention-grabbing art of Flamenco from the annual Guitar Festival at UTD. As I expected, the music took me by storm—my adventure was enhanced with a truly immersive musical and artistic involvement, transforming my idea of how music is integrated into the human experience.

A local Guitarist playing his traditional Guitarra Flamenca Rumba behind the Catedral de Barcelona

First of all, the street musicians: these individuals, appearing along the yellow historic alleyways, would enhance the squares to bring color to the canvas. Whether it was guitar, trumpet, or unseen gongs and bowls, the music echoed itself into the walls and windows. The story-telling strums envelop your senses to offer you an alternative perspective on living. Thanks to the principle of paying for someone’s dedication to their craft and performance, these street musicians represented an idea that you could create a livelihood based on forming a deeper connection with those around you. The ability to support these individuals — who dedicated their time to showing us their passions through music—was a gift in and of itself.

A duo of brothers performing street stunts to popular Spanish music in Plaça Reial

The Tablao show, El Espectåculo de su Vida. This Flamenco performance incorporated singing, impressive guitar feats, and intense, rhythmic foot tap dancing. Seeing the show live gave me a taste of the timeless art, feeling historic yet fresh all at the same time. The intimate language of Flamenco is an art form historical to Spain, as the stories told originate from exclusive family heritages displaying life and culture in southern Spain. My first show was in a cave-like room that naturally amplified the characteristics of the performance while simultaneously bringing the audience closer to the stage. These flamenco legends used claps to their advantage, utilizing the rhythms from the claps to transition into the next songs, thus incorporating the audience into the show. While in Las Ramblas, the heart of flamenco in Barcelona, I was starstruck to encounter this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.

The finale of the Tablao Flamenco Cordobes performance in Las Ramblas in which performers clap along to the rhythm of the audience reflecting the high energy of all participants

The next two nights were subsequently dedicated to pursuing more of these shows. I learned the relationship of performers and their tempo to be described as the “duende,” one of the elements to which flamenco is so authentic and original. Innately, I, like many others, use rhythm as a foundation to connect to music. Through tapping my foot, nodding my head, or dancing, rhythm connects us to the tempo physically. This inborn relationship of rhythm held our attention, as the fast, intense tempo represented a dramatic display of self-expression. Rhythm allowed the improvisation of both the musicians and dancers, with the singers contextualizing the emotions of what is expressed—truly an exhilarating and unique musical experience.

The entrance to a popular Tablao venue Flamenco Palau Dalmases located in front of the Picasso Museum 

Overall, Barcelona was probably my favorite place I visited on my trip abroad. The adrenaline-and rush-inducing nature of the guitar strums is a detail that will bleed into my personal learning process with my instrument. The display of one of the most prominent elements of Spanish culture showed me a glimpse into just how crucial music is in creating a sense of community and belonging. What you can learn from my time in Spain is to support those around you who explore artistic and musical endeavors, as the value of the creative process continues to decline in our ever-evolving culture. In helping each other and spending our precious dollars with purpose, I believe we can heal and bring back together our sense of local community and keep our culture lively and colorful musically.

Gavin Vallee

Governance and Service: A Comparative Study of the U.S. and Switzerland – Summer 1 2024

MBA Sustainability Studies in Stockholm, Sweden

July 11, 2024

I really enjoyed our study abroad trip to Sweden. The IEF scholarship helped me explore the greater Stockholm and Uppsala worry free. I was able to enjoy the Swedish cousin and visit places like Alfred Noble Museum, the Vasa Museum, royal palace, Birka the Viking city, old town Stockholm, Uppsala city etc. We also met with the companies like Ericcson, H&M, Northvolt, Swedish Institute, Solkompaniet etc.  Seeing the handwritten analytical letter of Albert Einstein in the Alfred Nobel Museum had a profound impact on me.  Below is the picture of me in the Alfred Noble museum. 

I secretly wished I had a whole summer worth of study abroad opportunity at Stockholm or Uppsala. Enjoying the summer, the vibrant city life, public transportation, clean and safe city is a dream come true. Swedish design thinking goes beyond imagination. We went to this rooftop bar that had a walking trail with an amazing view of the city. Picture is attached below. 

Now I understand why Sweden is constantly ranked as one of the best countries to live. I would still like to understand why Sweden, despite a relatively small population, is so innovative. I have a good idea but spending more time and understanding the work culture will give me more perspective. I definitely plan on bringing my family back to Sweden and explore the country more. I have attached some pictures here for your reference. 

Some of the things I found interesting during the Sweden visit were:

1.  The Swedish and Danish rivalry throughout the history. 

2. Uppsala was a very beautiful university town with a great history. Picture at the Uppsala cathedral:

3. Swedish food in general is very healthy. Picture of a dish I got to enjoy during our Birks settlement visit. 

4. Ericsson’s impact on the global 5G race. 

5. Finland and Norway used to be part of Sweden. 

6. Swedish royal family was imported from France to take back Finland from Russia. Picture below is beside the royal guard guarding the palace. 

7. How friendly and humble the people were. 

8. Stockholm is a very beautiful and clean city. Picture of the old town below. 

9. Was surprised by how quickly the Vasa ship sank, picture below. 

The company visits were very eye opening as well. Swedish companies not only talk about sustainability, but they live it and that is the core of their business portfolio. H&M is working on creating a supply chain around sustainable raw material sourcing. It has also launched a platform to trade used clothes. Northvolt is planning on being carbon neutral by 2050. This is a very ambitious goal for a battery company. Ericcson is leading the western world in the 5G technology and is designing equipment that have the lowest carbon footprint possible.  

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Sweden overall was a very inspiring country with a lot to offer. I plan to go back and spend more time there. Hope UT Dallas will be able to organize more tours to the country as well. 

Samip Subedi, Regional Management Area Studies: Stockholm, Sweden (MBA Only) – Maymester 2024

Sociology in Paris

In the Summer of 2022, I studied sociology abroad in Paris with a cohort of around 20 people. We had two classes that took up until the afternoon on most weekdays, and spent the afternoons and weekends exploring the beautiful city of Paris. Me and my roommate got to visit Amsterdam, Florence, and London as well on the weekends. 

Overall, it was an amazing trip that gave me memories I will cherish for the rest of my life. We spent so many days getting lost in the rustic streets of Paris, and many nights sitting by the Seine just talking about our future. We all learned from the countless museums, including the world-famous Louvre, and historical locations scattered throughout Paris. My favorite memories include picnicking under the Eiffel Tower, bargaining at the Leather Market in Florence, and thrifting at a famous thrifting street in Paris.

If I were to talk to my younger self, here is the advice that I would give:

• Take flights if it is only a little more expensive, weekend trips are already so short, and time is precious. After our first Flixbus we switched all of our trips to flights instead of overnight 16 hour bus rides.
• Take the time to learn basics of the language before visiting, it allows you to engage more in the culture and the feeling when you have a successful conversation is amazing
• Plan ahead of time! Time passes fast when you are studying abroad, and if you have bookings already in place, you will make sure to hit every place you want instead of doing all of them in the last week
• You don’t need to be seeing new places and doing exciting things everyday. Take the time to read a book at a coffee shop, walk around your neighborhood, and check out the grocery store. You will be tired from all the travelling, and this gives you time to recharge

If you are on the fence of studying abroad, I recommend that you do it! When you have the benefit of being a short-term resident and not just a tourist,  you get the chance to more deeply appreciate the culture and learn about what you like to do instead of rushing from place to place.

Traveling in the United Kingdom

While spending a semester studying in the United Kingdom, I have had the opportunity to travel to a myriad of different cities across the country. Applying through UTD’s exchange program, I spent my fall semester at the University of Reading. Reading is located only 25 minutes away from London by train, allowing me to have access to a wide array of different trains that could take me anywhere. When the weekends rolled around, I would take a break from school to go and explore a new town. The United Kingdom is relatively small which allows for easy day trips to almost anywhere. I went to many different cities, but the most notable to me are Bath, Edinburgh, and Dover. Each had their own unique British charm that left me in awe from what I saw.

The very first city I visited, besides London and Reading, was Bath. Located only an hour away from Reading, I was able to spend the majority of the day there and take in all the different sites around me. Bath is a historical city with bits and pieces of history everywhere you look. During my time there, I visited the Roman Baths and the Jane Austen Center but there are still so many other places to visit. The Roman Baths are located right next to the abbey which created the most magnificent views while walking around in the baths. The Roman Baths themselves were quite impressive. It was amazing to be able to walk around in such a unique historical site. 

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The city of Edinburgh is up far north of Reading in Scotland which brings with it endless chilly winds and rain that help add to the dreary atmosphere of the city. Just like Bath, Edinburgh is a historic city with many impressive monuments. Overlooking the city is the Edinburgh Castle which housed many soldiers and royals. The castle is expansive with many artifacts lurking within its walls such as a pet cemetery and the Honours of Scotland (the royal crown). Edinburgh is a large city with lots to see and do. Some of my favorite spots in Edinburgh are Arthur’s seat and the Greyfriars cemetery. Arthur’s seat is a hiking trail that leads you up to the top of an ancient volcano with breathtaking views of the city. Unfortunately, I was unable to reach the top because of the bad weather, but there is still so much beauty in the lower portions of the hill. It was still a great experience even though I was not able to see all of it. The Greyfriars cemetery, like most things in the UK, was a profoundly old site. It was a beautiful graveyard that became creepy at night. One notable member of the graveyard is Bobby the dog. He and his owner used to be the watchmen of the cemetery during the height of grave robbing. There are endless interesting stories surrounding Bobby that you can find in the city. 

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While the city of Dover is not quite as picturesque as the others, the White Cliffs make up for it. My favorite trip that I went on during my stay in the UK would definitely be hiking up the White Cliffs and seeing the most stunning views of the ocean. As someone who does not normally hike, I was a bit hesitant about the cliffs. I thought that the White Cliffs were incredibly enjoyable though. It is not quite as intense as other hikes, but it has a clear path to follow which makes it easy to walk around and take in the views. When you first arrive at the cliffs, you have to walk up an extremely steep incline. Once you make it to the top though, it makes that short amount of time worth it. In the distance, you can vaguely see the Dover Castle but the real show stopper is the ocean and of course the cliffs themselves.

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All of the places that I visited always left me amazed by what I saw. As someone who has never traveled out of the United States before, getting to see the incredible sights from another country was an amazing experience that I will never forget. I had lots of fun navigating new cities every weekend and discovering the beauty that each place held. The United Kingdom has lots of places to explore and marvel in besides London. I’m glad that I had the time to be able to discover these new places.