My global experience encompassed the best and most exciting two months of my life. Pursuing this opportunity constantly pushed me to grow in independence, self-confidence, and embrace a constant state of adventure. Throughout my program, I worked independently on a computer simulation model using ANSYS Fluent technology. I learned the software on my own and…
Author: brendalrea
Embracing a New Home Away from Home
As I reach the halfway point of my program here in Singapore, I wanted to share some reflections and compare my experience to life in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Living in Singapore presents a striking contrast to my hometown. The tropical climate is notably different—hot, humid, and frequently rainy, creating a jungle-like environment. Thankfully, the campus features…
Hello Singapore!
My name is Brenda Rea, and I am a rising senior at the University of Pittsburgh, studying Chemical Engineering through the Swanson School of Engineering. This summer, I will be participating in the SERIUS program offered at the National University of Singapore (NUS), a summer undergraduate research program for students from selected schools in the…
Passing the Baton
Some advice that I would give to prospective students is to not be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone. That’s what studying abroad is all about! Network with leaders, create lasting friendships, and go sightseeing every chance you get. Also, take lots of pictures! Every time I’m traveling, I think I’m taking so…
Home Away From Home
When exploring a new country and experiencing a new culture, there’s always going to be adjustments from your normal day-to-day life. These adjustments are what make traveling so worth-while and enriching. The first, not so enriching, adjustment I had to make was getting accustomed to the six hour time difference. After a full day of…
Brenda’s Czech In
Hello blog! My name is Brenda Rea, and I am a rising junior at the University of Pittsburgh. I am a Pittsburgh native, so home is only about twenty-five minutes from campus. At Pitt, I am pursuing a chemical engineering degree at the Swanson School of Engineering along with a minor in chemistry. Within ChemE,…
Cyprus was a Dream
My international experience was life changing. When I initially was transferred to the Cyprus study abroad group because of Covid traveling restrictions in the Netherlands, I was hesitant because I did not know a lot about the country and it wasn’t my first choice. However, after reading the itinerary and learning more about Cypriot culture,…
Cyrus Recap and Future Goals
Throughout my two weeks abroad, I learned a lot about traveling in a group that I wish I knew earlier. One big aspect of the trip that I wish I knew beforehand is how exhausting it can be to study abroad! I truly have loved every single detail about my time abroad, I just wish…
Rewriting my Future in Nicosia
If I had the opportunity to be a full-time resident in Cyprus I would probably choose to live in Nicosia, which is the capital of Cyprus. I would love to live in Nicosia because it is divided by the venetian wall into the new and old city. During my two weeks in Cyprus, we stayed…
Adjusting to Life in Cyprus
So far, my time in Cyprus has been out of this world! The individuals at the University of Nicosia and Pitt’s study abroad team have done an excellent job ensuring that the trip will go smoothly. Because of their preparation, I have not encountered any major challenges so far during my time abroad. Furthermore, most…