“Suri-what?” Nine times out of ten, this was the typical reaction I was met with when I told my peers, friends, and family that I’d spend the first three weeks of my summer studying abroad in Suriname—the smallest country in South America. Despite being one of the most ethnically diverse countries in its region, the…
Category: Gilman
From Frenchie’s to Pizza Co.
The world only has a select few settings. Not to say I haven’t been starstruck every time I step out onto the streets of Florence, but it is truly amazing to see how the world works in patterns. Since arriving in Florence, I realized that I initially focused on all the differences in the area…
“Mami! Me Voy a Firenze”: Stephany Andrade
As a first-generation college student, I never expected to be telling my mom that I’d be studying abroad in Florence. I’d always thought that studying abroad just wasn’t in the cards for me. After learning that I had received a Benjamin A. Gilman scholarship, The Martinson Elevate Award, and a Pitt GlobalExperiences Office Scholaship I…
Jordan: Citadel of Culture and Caravan of Colors
During my time in Jordan, I was taken back by the warmth that Jordanians had when I interacted with them. They were always eager to learn where I came from, why I was there, and what my favorite foods were so far. I felt that this kindness deepened my relationship with my host mother Maha,…
Amman Adventures: Arabic Acquisitions, Turbocharged Taxis, and the Journey to Jerash
Hi again, or really مرحباً (Marhaba!) It has been a couple weeks since I last talked with you all, during which I flew to Amman, Jordan and started my program. I have also met and moved in with my homestay family, which includes my host mom, Maha. Since this is my first time traveling aboard,…
Up, Up and Away!
Hello! My name is Hajjar Littles (she/her) and I am a rising senior majoring in psychology with a minor in Africana studies with certificates in Afro-Latinx studies and the conceptual foundations of medicine. This summer I will be studying aboard in Amman, Jordan where I will be a part of the School for International Training’s…