Introducing Juliet Eklund

Published on by DU AbroadLeave a comment

What is/are your major(s)?

Sociology & Spanish

What is/are your minor(s)?

N/A

What is the name of your study abroad program?

IFSA: Argentine Universities Program

In what city & country is your study abroad program located?

Buenos Aires, Argentina

What is something you would like the blog readers to know about you that they wouldn’t know by just looking at you?

I love history. Exploring the cultural and political history of a place allows you to understand the background of its modern ways of life. You discover why people do the things they do, why they speak the way they speak, etcetera. It’s exciting to look back and watch the construction of a place and a people.

What is one thing that you are most anticipating about your study abroad experience?

I cannot wait for the new cuisines I will try in Argentina. I’m a pretty adventurous eater and look forward to trying new foods as well as cooking my own favorite meals for my host family.

Why did you decide to study abroad? or What inspired you to study abroad?

I have had few opportunities to travel in the past, but I’ve always dreamed of seeing more of the world. I also love languages and the cultural power they possess. I wanted to immerse myself in Spanish, and studying abroad seemed the perfect way to do that. 



One final au revoir

Published on by darbyansonLeave a comment

As my voyages came to a close late last week, I have a variety of emotions going through my mind. Excited to see my family, nervous about re-adjusting to the culture here, proud of how far I have come in my language skills and extremely sad to leave behind this wonderful place and people I have come to know. My heart has never been more full than the final Friday of the semester.

IAU held a closing ceremony for all the students, and I was lucky enough to receive an award for my exceptional French skills. The reception following the ceremony, I was able to share final moments with my professors and fellow students who have completely changed my life for the better. Later that night, my group of four girls went to get a drink for the last time at our usual brasserie in the town square. We recounted all of our memories from first impressions to our favorite café and our highlights. These girls have shaped me and I will forever be grateful for each one of them.

All in all, these truly have been the best four months of my life. Despite some troublesome times, which happen anywhere, I have grown so much and learned to be confident in who I am. I hope this is not a once in a lifetime experience, but should it be, this was one hell of a ride and my heart is so full.