During the summer of 2012 I had the opportunity to study abroad at the University of Caen with a group of UC students.  I cannot accurately describe how amazing and eye-openining it is to live in another country, particularly a country where they don't speak English.  You can learn more about my time in France here >>> http://katmhurley.tumblr.com/

This study tour class is one that I will never forget.  The trip abroad to Florence and Rome, Italy was not only my first international experience, but also my first time on a plane.  Beyond the firsts I experienced in traveling, the culture of Italy will stick with me forever.  The Italians truly enjoy themselves.  They enjoy eating long meals with friends and family, they love to shop, they love to take long vacations, and they enjoy just being together.  I was able to gleam some of that from our discussions in the classroom, but mainly my knowledge of true Italians comes from the one short week I spent with them.  Having a week to enjoy myself and take full pleasure in delicious food and great company helped me to realize that a few things in my life back home need to change.  My goals of going to medical school and becoming a physician have not changed, but I have realized that while hard work is very important it is also important to enjoy oneself.  Enjoying oneself and taking time to have fun can mean less stress which will in turn can make me more productive and happy in other parts of my life.  Therefore, I am not giving up on my goals of success, but my trip to Italy has helped me to realize I can and should take time to be happy and have fun.

Florence & Rome, Italy

Paris & Caen, France

Chicago & NYC

All the other amazing places

New York City vs. Chicago

 

New York, New York. The city that never sleeps and ALWAYS has something going on. Chicago: the city of tradition, cold weather, and great food.  Don't get me wrong, NYC has amazing food, but maybe its the midwest in me. I love Chicago food and how traditional it all feels.  NYC is absolutely wonderful for exploring or sigtseeing, but the people of Chicago instantly make you feel like you've come home.  NYC is busy and the people will let you know that. I can imagine living in Chicago...NYC not so much.  

 

 

A listing of places I've visted in college: 

 

San Francisco, CA

San Diego, CA

Dallas, TX

Ireland

London, UK

Virginia Beach, VA

Washington DC

Baltimore, MD

Florence & Rome, Italy

Paris & Normandy, France

Kansas City, MO

Memphis, TN