Showing posts with label study abroad. Show all posts
Showing posts with label study abroad. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

CIEE Summer Global Internship, Lisbon, Portugal



The photo above represent my choice for the "Doors of Opportunities" session that we has at the CIEE campus in Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon, with its rich history as a launchpad for explorers and a gateway to new worlds, still holds that spirit of boundless opportunity. Imagine the intrepid navigators of old, gazing out at the Atlantic from Belém Tower, their hearts alight with ambition and the promise of undiscovered lands. Today, that same spirit echoes through the city's vibrant startup scene, its thriving cultural landscape, and its welcoming embrace of innovation. Each narrow alleyway, each sun-drenched plaza, seems to whisper tales of grand ventures and bold beginnings, inviting you to step through your own door of opportunity and chart a course towards your dreams.

So, as you walk Lisbon's charming streets, let the city's legacy inspire you. The "Doors of Opportunity" here aren't just metaphorical; they are the open doors of co-working spaces, the welcoming smiles of entrepreneurs, and the diverse communities eager to collaborate. Whether you're seeking to build a new career, ignite a creative passion, or simply find a place where new ideas flourish, Lisbon stands ready to be your compass and your guide. Embrace the adventure, step forward with courage, and discover the extraordinary possibilities that await you in this magnificent city.










Based on the above attached flyers, the study-abroad program in Lisbon, Portugal, offers an incredible blend of cultural immersion, academic enrichment, and thrilling exploration. You have the chance to learn about Portuguese language and customs, delve into the city's artistic heritage at a tile workshop, and even engage in a business challenge at an innovative company. These aren't just field trips; they're doorways into the heart of a vibrant culture, giving you a chance to build practical skills, understand local etiquette, and connect with people who are shaping the future of this dynamic city.


This journey is about more than just what you learn in a classroom; it’s about what you discover on the open road. From the historic streets of Nazaré and Óbidos to the scenic coast of Setúbal where you can witness dolphins in their natural habitat, each outing promises a new perspective and an unforgettable memory. Embrace this spirit of adventure, and allow yourself to be open to the unexpected. These experiences will not only deepen your understanding of Portugal but will also help you grow as a global citizen, preparing you for a future filled with curiosity, resilience, and a profound appreciation for the world around you.






Based on the provided images, the class sessions at the CIEE campus in Lisbon were a perfect blend of practical learning and a metaphorical journey. We were encouraged to see the world around us, particularly the beautiful city of Lisbon, as a series of doors waiting to be opened. A central theme was that the key to these doors is often curiosity, not immediate answers. We learned to ask better questions and to reflect on our takeaways from each session, which shifted our thinking and guided our future actions, both in our internships and in our personal lives. The class provided a framework for us to not only complete our internship tasks but also to actively explore our surroundings and engage with the opportunities they presented. 



This adventurous approach to learning transformed our understanding of our internship program. We were given a clear roadmap for the week ahead, which included scheduling appointments with our supervisors and preparing our LinkedIn profiles, all of which were designed to help us open real-world doors of opportunity. We used these sessions to discuss our progress and the challenges we faced, viewing each obstacle as a door that could be unlocked with the right approach. The program at CIEE wasn't just about gaining professional experience; it was about adopting a mindset of exploration and lifelong learning, using Lisbon as our classroom to navigate the complexities of our internships and the world beyond.















Our recent city tour through downtown Lisbon was a journey back in time, a vivid exploration of a city shaped by its ancient leadership and maritime history. Walking through the grand Praça do Comércio, with its stately arcades and triumphant arch, it was easy to imagine the powerful figures who once ruled from this very spot, their decisions sending ships to every corner of the globe. The tour highlighted how the city’s urban design, particularly in the Baixa district, was meticulously planned after the devastating 1755 earthquake, reflecting a spirit of resilience and foresight that is still palpable today. This walk was more than just sightseeing; it was an education in how a city's past governance and grand vision can define its present character.

The adventure truly came alive as we reached the banks of the mighty Tagus River. The expansive views from the miradouros, or viewpoints, offered a breathtaking panorama of terracotta rooftops spilling down to the water’s edge. Standing there, gazing at the river, you can feel its historical significance as a gateway to the world. It was a trade route, a launchpad for explorers, and the lifeblood of the city. The contrast between the bustling city streets and the serene, open water creates a powerful sense of place—one that is both deeply rooted in history and constantly looking toward the horizon. This trip taught us that Lisbon is a city of layers, where every view and every street corner tells a story of adventure, ambition, and enduring beauty.








During the Summer Global Internship, the Lisbon metro rail system became an essential part of our daily life, serving as more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It was our lifeline to the city, allowing us to navigate the sprawling urban landscape with ease and efficiency. The metro's color-coded lines, as seen in the maps, were our daily compass—the blue, yellow, green, and red lines connecting us to our internship sites, classrooms, and a myriad of cultural experiences. It was a reliable and accessible network that enabled us to commute, explore, and truly feel integrated into the rhythm of Lisbon life, providing a sense of independence and adventure from the moment we stepped on board.


Beyond our daily commute, the metro system was a key facilitator of our exploration. With stations strategically located throughout the city, we were able to effortlessly travel from the historic Alfama district to the modern Parque das Nações, and even make our way to and from the airport. This well-designed public transit system not only saved us time but also provided a unique perspective of the city's diverse neighborhoods, offering a glimpse into local life. The convenience of the Lisbon metro was a critical component of our internship experience, proving that a well-connected city is a well-connected adventure, allowing us to maximize our time and discover all that this incredible city has to offer.















Our study-abroad adventure continued with an unforgettable trip to Nazaré and Óbidos, a perfect blend of breathtaking natural wonders and medieval charm. In Nazaré, we were immediately struck by the sheer power and beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, a sight made famous by the colossal waves that challenge big-wave surfers. Standing on the cliffs of Sitio, overlooking the famous beach, we gained a new appreciation for the forces of nature and the daring spirit of the local community. The view was a stunning panorama of golden sand and endless blue water, a sharp contrast to the quaint fishing town below, and it served as a powerful reminder of Portugal's deep connection to the sea.

From the coastal grandeur of Nazaré, we traveled to the enchanting walled town of Óbidos, stepping back in time to a world of cobbled streets and historical architecture. The town felt like an open-air museum, with its narrow alleyways, whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers, and medieval castle walls. We explored ancient churches and courtyards, each corner revealing new stories and offering a glimpse into a rich past. This dual-destination trip was a truly educative experience, showcasing the diverse landscapes and heritage of Portugal, from the formidable coast to the meticulously preserved medieval village, and cementing our understanding that every corner of this country holds a unique and powerful story waiting to be discovered.Although I felt sick and tired during the trip, due to heat stress and hilly walks, I really enjoyed the beautiful sceneries. 













During our Summer Global Internship, our trip to the Tile Museum in Lisbon was a truly adventurous and educative experience. Stepping inside, we were immediately immersed in Portugal’s vibrant artistic heritage, as showcased in the attached photos of the magnificent ornate ceiling and gilded statues. The museum wasn’t just a collection of historical artifacts; it was a journey through time, revealing how tiles, or azulejos, have been a constant thread in the country’s cultural fabric, telling stories from religious parables to historical events, as seen in the large tile murals. This visit offered a profound look at how art is embedded in daily life, transforming buildings into canvases and preserving history in a way that is both beautiful and enduring.


The highlight of our visit was the hands-on workshop, where we had the chance to become creators ourselves. We embraced the spirit of the Portuguese artisans, learning to paint tiles with various colors and floral figures, as you can imagine from the tile-adorned walls and decorative pieces. This practical session was a tangible way to connect with the art form we had just studied, moving from passive observation to active participation. This adventurous experience in Southern Europe gave us a deeper appreciation for the skill and tradition behind the art, demonstrating that some of the most powerful learning happens when you not only see the culture, but you also become a part of it, one brushstroke at a time.







 

Our Summer Global Internship in Lisbon provided an incredibly adventurous and educative opportunity to engage with cutting-edge scientific research at the Champalimaud Foundation. This wasn't a typical internship; it was an immersive experience where we were hands-on with real-world health studies. We delved into a diverse range of scientific fields, performing in-body assessments, measuring resting metabolism, and conducting bioimpedance tests. Our work at this innovative research center felt like stepping into the future of health science, and it was a privilege to contribute to studies with the CIPER-Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Human Performance. This hands-on application of academic knowledge was the kind of learning that only an abroad experience can provide.


The adventure of our internship went beyond the lab, as we worked in a state-of-the-art facility that was a beacon of modern science and architecture. The Champalimaud Foundation itself, with its striking design and serene coastal location, was a truly inspiring environment. The knowledge we gained from the calibration procedures and various scientific protocols gave us a professional confidence that will be invaluable in our future careers. This unique blend of academic rigor and practical application in a beautiful, global setting solidified our understanding of the connections between physical activity, health, and a holistic approach to human performance. It was a transformative experience that merged learning with genuine discovery.


Monday, September 9, 2024

London Spring: Some things you need to know

 Hi everyone!

It has been a minute but I wanted to come on here and share a little more about my second, and final, semester in London. Again, my name is Hope and I spent the last year studying abroad in London!

It has now been well over four months since I got back on the island and it has given me a lot of time to put together some things for you all. I would like to send a disclaimer that this is not going to be the most positive post but I hope it will help you in making your decisions!


Is Spring in London worth it?

Honestly, I would say it depends. I'm not going to lie and say that it was all terrible, because there were really good moments in my second semester, but there were other factors that made it not the most ideal situation. Also, these factors were mostly on me so if you catch these early on it would probably be better for you.

╰┈➤ There is no real "Spring" in London 

Now this might be controversial depending on where you are in the US, and maybe this is just because I grew up on island, but Spring doesn't really start until April-May (and saying April is really me being generous). Some days you would get lucky and the sun would come out for an hour or two but mostly it stayed winter weather almost my entire second semester there. Which would be good for those of that like that sort of weather but for everyone else, it is a big thing to consider when choosing what semester you would head out there.



 

On the left were most days and on the right was literally the last day of April. I kid you not when I say this was the first couple of days of Spring.





╰┈➤ It's kind of dull 

Due to the lack of holidays and celebrations during this time of year, compared to the Fall/Winter semester, London wasn't that exciting. There weren't that many events or fairs going on during the spring, like Winter Wonderland @ Hyde Park or any of the Christmas Markets. Even all of the markets were sort of empty due to the constant rainy and windy
weather so if you planned to try and do something they were limited to indoor activities. Which can be equally as fun, you just need to find your niche!


 

As you can see we did what we could but usually stuff was indoors and for a fee, and that plus transportation wasn't the most ideal.






╰┈➤  Classes 

This was my view most weekends :(

Now this is where I messed up big time. During my second semester, I took a media production class, not only that I took a photojournalism class as well. A huge part of this is because the school that I was going to messed up my schedule and I had to choose something available, which wasn't a lot. However, if you are going abroad and are there for a limited amount of time DO NOT choose a class that involves a camera. Unless that is what you're passionate about and you don't mind most of your time being consumed by editing or camerawork, you're just going to find yourself missing out on all of your time to explore!








Now, I don't mean to tell you this to push you off from studying abroad because there were so many incredible things I got to do during this semester too (which will be my next post!). However, it is important to know some of the things that I either wasn't aware of or didn't understand just how much of an impact they would have. I'm sure I would've had a more amazing time if I wasn't in certain classes and had more free time. So just take this with a grain of salt, your experience is up to you!!

Anyways, if you have anymore questions please feel free to let me know @/whenhopemeetsworld on ig would probably be best!! 

Thank youu :)) 

*ೃ༄  Hope 

Saturday, July 15, 2023

A Final Reflection Before Returning Home

It has been a while since my last journal, but so much has happened since then and it was about time I posted my final blog post. For starters, as in the writing of this blog this is my final week in Japan. To say that the phrase "time flies" is true would be a large understatement. Somehow it feels like I have a lot of time left before returning home and not enough time simultaneously. 

Cherry Blossoms at
the Park
Here are few updates about the semester. There were moments during the middle of the term where it felt as though I had lumped myself into a cycle. I would wake up to go to class, attend all of my lessons for the day, come back to the dorm, do homework, and then get ready for bed. See in the beginning of the semester the workload was quite light and there was not much to worry about in terms of homework. It probably was because they want to ease the students into the change in environment before piling on the assignments. 

But as the semester began to continue forward more and more homework began to pile on top of one another. Since I came to Japan to study, I pressured myself into solely focusing on homework and projects to not fall behind. I thought I would be content with this since it was my decision to study in Japan. 
Lake at the Park Near the Dorms

Yet what I did not realize is what I was doing to myself was harmful to my mental health. Fortunately, with the support system that I have both here in Japan and back home I was able to quickly realize what I was doing to myself. One night when I called my mother she told me that I should relax and enjoy my time in Japan. 

While yes it is important to keep on top of the workload in school, I should not forget to take a break for myself every so often. She then suggested I try to do things for my own enjoyment and not worry so much with school. 

With that piece of advice I started to do things to help balance out the stress and break out of the routine that I developed. Some of the small things I began doing was talking walks around the park that is near the dorm, going with friends to fun little excursions together, and taking part in school activities. One of which was an excursion to Nara and Osaka. Out of all the excursions I went to with the school

Osaka
I think this trip was the one I had the most fun on. A few friends and I were able to explore temples, eat amazing food, and learn more about Japanese culture. For example, we took a class on woodblock printing and, while admittedly harder then it looks in person, was insightful to how ancient artist would painstakingly work on the beautiful artwork that we see in museums to this day. As for the food I mentioned earlier it was delicious. One of the items I had eaten was grilled eel and although it looked scary at first when I took a bite of it the amount of flavor that was there was unbelievable. Also the owner of the cart was really nice and was trying his best to converse with me and my group of friends. 

Todaiji Temple
At first, he tried to speak to us in Japanese, but once one of us
explained that we do not understand Japanese all that well he immediately switched to English. Although he kept apologizing for his lack of English we all told him that we appreciated his efforts for talking to us. Afterwards, he recommended us other vendors and places to visit while we were in Osaka for the brief period. 

Volunteering Opportunity
Another experience I was able to have while in Japan was interacting with some local Japanese children. This semester I was in a class about learning Japanese culture through picture books. My teacher for the course also volunteers with the local library near the university and one of the volunteering opportunities was to read English books to Japanese children. So she asked for students to volunteer with the event and I decided this would be a great chance for me to interact with some of the local people in the community. 

Needless to say, the event went well. There was a mini origami lesson for the children, singing nursery rhymes with them, and of course, reading the English translation of beloved Japanese picture books. Although there were a little hiccups along the way (for example, on this day it was quite raining), I was never the more grateful to my teacher for allowing me to join in and help with the event. 

Outside of school I was fortunate enough to be able to plan a solo trip to Kyoto for my birthday. There I explored a bamboo grove, the local aquarium, eat in the market, and much more. Although I am not much of a big spender, I was encouraged by my mom to use my birthday as a time to step away from the workload for the weekend and have fun. So I did and, in my own opinion, feel as though this is one of my favorite birthday memories for years to come. 

All in all I would never had experience all of what I had done had I not taken a break from the school work. Now I am in no way, shape or form advising to not do work while studying abroad. What I am advising is to allow for periods of time to not think about work and to enjoy the scenery. It does not have to be as big as planning a trip to Kyoto or going on excursions every week that is planned by the school. The breaks can be as simple as going to the local park to watch ducks swimming in the lake or taking pictures of the local flora and fauna. Whatever makes the stress easier to handle should be done. Otherwise it could leave to a severe case of burnout. 

Before I conclude this journal here are a few of my favorite places that I recommend for people to visit:
  1. Nagoya Castle
    • Nagoya Castle is a beautiful sight to see in person. Along the way there is a lot of history and more to discover. There is a lot of walking so do bring a bottle of water if planning to visit the site. Although I may be recommending Nagoya Castle, Japan has other castles in the different cities that people can enjoy for the historical background. 
      Nagoya Castle
  2. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 
    • If wanting a tranquil get away from the busy everyday like then this bamboo grove in Kyoto is somewhere I would suggest visiting. The bamboos are tall and surrounds the people as they walk through and along the way there are shrines and other places to visit within. I do recommend going in the early mornings or the late afternoons if one wants to avoid large crowds of people. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove does see a lot of tourists and locals going to take photographs. 
      Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

  3. Kyoto Aquarium 
    • Now there are other aquariums that are in Japan. For example there is the Port of Nagoya aquarium. However, the one that I went to was the one in Kyoto and I thought it was absolutely breathtaking. Especially with how large the tanks were, the diverse animals in the museums, and the vast amount of exhibits to behold while in the aquarium. Definitely a place where I would visit again and would recommend to a friend. 
      Viewing Tank within Kyoto Aquarium

  4. Tokugawa Art Museum 
    • The art contained in this museum puts any of the visitors into the mind of the past. Containing pieces from the Tokugawa family and others who have donated to the museum it tells a story of each owner of the item. Though no photography is allowed, it is still worthwhile. Side note: if attending NUFS at the time of visiting Tokugawa Art Museum then admission is free for students. All that is required to take advantage of this deal is to bring the student ID to the front door and show it to the ticket collector. At least that is what I experienced it may change, but that is how I know it is done currently. 
      Tokugawa Art Museum

  5. Nagoya Science Museum
    • For those wanting to see a museum with a lot of interactive components that is both educational and fun then the science museum is the place to be. It has a lot of fun interactive exhibits that is connected to the theme of each floor. In addition there is a beautiful planetarium inside. However, avoid going here on holidays and weekends since there will be a lot of families visiting the establishment. Additionally all the exhibits are in Japanese with no English translations so do keep that in mind. 
      Exhibit within the Science Museum

  6. Kuromon Ichiba Market
    • If anyone finds themselves in Osaka then Kuromon Ichiba Market should be one the list of places to visit. There are a lot of food stalls and shops to visit. And all of the food is delicious from the takoyaki, fried crab legs, candied strawberries, and so much more. Although again plan accordingly if large crowds are not ideal. 
      Kuromon Ichiba Market
Hopefully there was something that anyone who comes across this blog post was able to take with them for the next time they travel or study abroad. Thank you for reading about the last leg of my journey through Japan and I hope whoever reads this has enjoyed the contents within the blog.