My experiences on this program enhanced my educational pursuits by exposing me to a variety of medical fields and ailments, which personally impacted my appreciation for the anatomical arts and better prepared me for my future as a medical professional. Studying the intricate Statue of David, da Vinci’s aged renderings of the human figure, a great many wax models of bodily ailments/diseases, and resin-casted (donated) organs will truly augment anyone’s appreciation for the wonders of the human mind and body, casting a glimpse into the realities of medicine and its history.

I wouldn’t say that my time abroad greatly improved my communication skills in an environment that doesn’t speak my native language as everyone spoke English for the most part wherever I traveled. As long as you have a basic understanding of common phrases and can express yourself via body language, it isn’t too difficult to get past the language barrier.

In both Italy and the UK, there was much to learn about the difference in dining experience between them and the U.S. – over there you can sit for as long as you like, relax and enjoy good food and conversation, and must ask for the bill when you are ready as the waiter will leave you alone to enjoy yourself. Meanwhile in the U.S., our dining experiences are much more rushed, but honestly I discovered that our way of life is generally much more fast-paced than that of my host cultures. Perhaps the most beautiful thing I learned about Europe’s culture is how they repurpose their immaculate, ancient buildings without simply renewing and foregoing the original intricacy and spirit of the structures themselves. In Italy the old guild buildings surrounding the towering Duomo have not changed a bit in their medieval essence, but simply contain newer, more modern shops.

One expectation about Italy is how amazing the food, particularly the pasta is. However, I found that Italian pasta can often be either quite spicy or bland, and that it is actually the sandwiches that are next level in flavor and crunch, and the desserts there are deeply rich and melt in your mouth.

As for the United Kingdom, it seems to be a common misconception that the British are unfriendly and have strange accents that are difficult to decipher, but in my experience it was simply the opposite as the London locals were quite lovely.

The most breathtaking aspect of my program was a trip I took to the seaside towns of Cinque Terre, settling beside the Mediterranean water that sparkles with the deepest sapphire-blue color; it is the clearest, most beautiful body of water I have yet to see in my lifetime and I’ll always remember the sight vividly. Everything here will give you a true taste of authentic Italy, from the homemade pesto and top-notch seafood, to the brightly colored, towering townhomes, all the way to the striking flowers that are always in bloom and overlooking gorgeous mountainsides with a clear sky. In short, it is a beautiful, simple place I would suggest anyone take a trip to.

As a low income, first generation college student it was wonderful to experience a corner of the greater world as I wasn’t doing it just for myself or a few college credits- it was for my family, who all worked so hard to help me get to where I am today and never got the chance to experience these things for themselves.

Name: Corren (Ren) Phillips
Status: Sophomore
Majors: Molecular Genetics and Genomics and Neuroscience
Hometown: Stevensville, Michigan
Program: Foundations of Neuroscience in Italy and the UK