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Carin Molenaar
Carin Molenaar is an Ambassador who studied in Greco-Roman
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
Two words: Turkish Bath. I'll be honest, I didn't entirely know what I was getting into when we decided to find a traditional, "less touristy" Turkish bath in Istanbul. However, we embraced some unique traditions and emerged with an interesting story that I can honestly say I'll never forget.
Why did you choose the program in which you particpated?
There was no doubt in my mind. I knew that the Greco-Roman program was a perfect fit for me. I would get to live in two worlds completely different than the flat, farmland where I grew up. I would get to experience two historical paradises in a logical sequence. I would get to bask in the glory of philosophers, world conquerors, and artistic geniuses. Not only that, but I would get to experience the lands that inspired them.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
There are no words to truly describe it. I know, when I heard people say that that before I went I could not really understand what they meant. I just passed it off, thinking that it was just some sort of lazy response. But seriously - studying abroad initiates you into this sort of secret society of people who understand just how fantastic and life-changing it really is. You explore an incredible and unique part of the world - not only that, you explore the inside of yourself and grow in new and unexpected ways. It's almost like you embark as your old self, get lost somewhere abroad, and return a completely different individual.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
I am stronger and more independent than I thought possible. After maneuvering my way through multiple countries, overcoming language barriers, healing after strange bug bites and taking a few chances (like banking on the fact we could buy last minute train tickets from Warsaw to Amsterdam after arriving in Poland), I no longer doubt my ability to conquer whatever challenges arise in my future.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
Take every opportunity that presents itself. You have the rest of your life to work and worry about money, but you will never have the opportunity to travel and explore like this ever again. I mean it. You can't just take a vacation and have the same experience. On vacations you have to rush in an attempt to "check" locations off some arbitrary list. Studying abroad allows you to truly experience a culture, befriend the family that runs a coffee shop, become a "regular" at the pizzeria down the street, and master transportation systems. So seriously, stop worrying about plane tickets or expenses. Your life is worth it. Go.