At International Arts & Artists, we love hearing about the incredible experiences our exchange visitors have during their programs! From exploring new cities to experiencing different cultures, exchanges expand our understanding of the world around us. We know all about the power of exchanges — in fact, many of our team members have studied, worked, or lived abroad! So, we’re launching a new blog series called “Travel Tales from the Team,” where we’ll share more about our own travel experiences.
First up is Erin, our amazing summer intern! A senior at the George Washington University in Washington, DC, Erin is studying International Affairs and minoring in Spanish and Theatre. In her spare time, she’s involved with student theatre, and also enjoys reading and painting recycled glass bottles. Fun Fact: Erin absolutely loves sloths, and has several sloth-themed decorations in her apartment!
Keep reading for more on what Erin had to say about her experiences traveling abroad!
Have you ever lived abroad for an extended period of time?
I’ve traveled abroad for vacation, a service trip, and an exchange program, but I have yet to work or live abroad for an extended period of time. The closest I’ve come is when I lived with a family in Madrid for a two-week exchange program in high school. I also spent a week working as a translator in clinics for Haitian refugees in the Dominican Republic a few years ago.
Do you have a favorite place that you’ve traveled abroad?
Probably a tie between the Aran Islands/Galway, Ireland, and Madrid, Spain.
What did you learn about yourself while abroad?
I learned that I can be more adventurous than I think, and my travels push me to live outside my comfort zone more often. I also love learning more about the culture and trying the local food of wherever I’m visiting.
Do you have a favorite memory of your time abroad?
I have had very different experiences abroad, so it’s hard to say. Spending time with my family in Edinburgh, helping nurses communicate with people in the Dominican Republic, visiting the Reina Sofia, and seeing Stonehenge to name a few.
Is there a place you’ve always wanted to go?
There are so many places I want to travel! I want to check off at least one place in every major area of the world, and so far I only have North America, Central America, and Europe.
What advice do you have for people traveling or looking to travel abroad?
My advice would probably be to look for authentic places to stay and visit. Exploring the more local areas of a place is so much more interesting and fulfilling than just sticking with the tourist areas. Also, choose your traveling companions wisely; travel with people you want to experience new things and go on adventures with.