I MADE IT TO THAILAND!!

I've been in Thailand for a little over a week and I've done so much. But there's so many more things to do! The harderst part of travelling has to be figuring out which sites youre going to see or miss. Hopefully I see more than I miss. My favorite places in Bangkok as of now are Khao Sahn road (google this its so awesome) and Wat Po (the reclining Buddha). Food's cheap, the beers good, and the people are great. Here's a picture of me on the Chao Phrya river with the temple of dawn on the background, and one with me and some group students at khao sahn road and another of me with the reclining buddha. I've decided to also travel to Ankor Wat Cambodia, Hanoi Vietnam, and Manila Philippines while I'm in southeast asia. Travelling is my new passion in life!

Look Who's Looking...

One of the interesting things about a blog is that you never know who might end up checking it out. In the few short weeks that our blog has been in existence, we've attracted viewers literally from around the world who are interested in our plans, tips and adventures.

Official Offer!

Hey everyone!
I'm really excited, I got my official offer letter...finally! Now I have to speedily fill out all the required forms, get my health insurance, get my visa, and finally book my plane ticket!! It's all so stressful right now, but hopefully will be worth it. I went into STA travel the other day and the staff working there was great and very helpful. The lady I was working with even looked up another student who was going so we could hopefully get on the same flight so we don't have to travel alone. My ticket estimate was around $1800...which was expected, but I don't actually think it's that bad. I was really scared there wouldn't be any flights because of the late notice. I leave early July. Orientation is July 14th. AH! Almost two months away!!
Ok kinda weird sidetrack...who watches LOST??
Well I do, and on the show, this plane crashes on a flight from Sydney to LA...which is the flight I'll eventually be making. Kinda funny...I know, it's fiction, but still!
Anyways...
I have a lot of prep and a lot of questions I need to get answered before I leave.
For example...what about furniture? I know that's weird to think about, but seriously, what about furniture? As far as housing goes, we are left to find our own, whether it's an apartment or house somewhere. So I wonder, if they're for students if they're already furnished.
What about bed sheets and towels? Haha, do we bring our own? Or do we buy them there? I assume buy them there...
I'm still really nervous, but I know it will all be worth it and I would regret it if I didn't go.
Has anyone else gotten their letters since class?

VESPA!!!!

The one thing that I am most excited for when I study abroad in Italy is riding a Vespa. I have always wanted to ride one, they look like so much fun. I checked out the prices and I think I can rent one for the day and it is $25. I do not need a license though, I just need to show them my I.D. I cannot wait, I just hope that they are easy to ride!!!

-Lindsey Marx

Italian Language

I just found this great website that I am going to start using to help me learn Italian. I have already taken 2 years of Spanish and hear that the languages are similar. I think that if I start learning the language now, it will be much easier for me to learn it while I am over there. The program that I am going on requires me to take 1 Italian class, so hopefully this trip will help me to be fluent at Italian. I will just keep my fingers crossed. If anyone wants to check out the website, the link is posted here. Good luck!!!!

-Lindsey Marx

Traveling across Europe? -By Jamye Sharp

Hey everyone! I found this cool website if anyone is planning on traveling through Europe while you are abroad. CLICK HERE. It tells you everything you need to know from transportation to rules and regulations to hotel and hostel booking.

Extra Travel Tips from Jamye Sharp

Hi everyone! i found a few great links for some extra travel tips while abroad. This site is from the US dpartment of State. it has a great little last time check list on it. If you want more medical information and tips you could check out this site here also by the US Department of State. Hope everyones travels go well! good luck to everyone!

21st Birthday in Italy!!!

So, it looks like I will be spending my 21st birthday in Europe. This is the first time I will ever be away from my family and friends for my birthday. 21 probably won't be as big and exciting of a birthday as it would be here in the United States. I'm still looking forward to it. I actually have my spring break with my program during my birthday and I would like to visit in Spain to meet up with my friend who is studying abroad there. This website has a bunch of different events that are happening during the month of March in Italy, which happens to be the month of my birthday. I am looking forward to my 21st birthday, but especially to be celebrating it in Europe!!! I cant wait!!!

-Lindsey Marx

Christmas in Holland

For my 21 years of existence, I have never once spent Christmas away from my family. I've always either been at home or visiting my grandparents in Seattle for the holidays, so it'll be quite a challenge to spend Christmas and New Years abroad for the first time. However, it'll be wonderful to see the Dutch's unique holiday traditions. Lonely Planet's site on the Netherlands describes: "Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) is the white-bearded patron saint of children who arrives "from Spain" in mid-November. He is accompanied by a host of mischievous servants called Zwarte Pieten (Black Peters). On the evening of December 5, people give one another anonymous gifts, accompanied by poems about the recipient, written by Sinterklaas. The Dutch sensibly have two Christmas days (on December 25 and 26). Fireworks are only allowed to be sold in the days preceding New Year's Eve- there are hundreds of injuries each drunken, crackin', bangin' December 31." Obviously my typical traditions of "mele kalikimaka" and christmas luau's at the beach are going to change a bit this year! :)

 An overview of events throughout the year:  http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/netherlands/events

Goals

Obviously, I have many goals for my experiences overseas. One that is most important to me,  however, is utilizing the opportunity to explore the region of Europe, being I've never been there. Although I know the Netherlands will offer much to see and I'll be spending the majority of time there, I'll definitely want to travel. Given I am financially able to do so, I plan to travel extensively outward from the "Gateway to Europe" (aka: the Netherlands) to sight-see and experience various other cultures, people, and languages, in at least 3 other countries. It's hard to say specifically which countries I'll visit, being once I'm there, certain opportunities will arise depending on who I meet, but I have some favorites in mind for sure. I've heard from many how beautiful Italy and Greece are, so they top my list. I'd also love to explore the UK, hitting up Scotland and Ireland for a few beers and beautiful landscapes. It'd also be really cool to get in touch with my historical roots in Sweden and Germany as well. 

Aloha!

Hi there world! My name is Amanda, and I've just completed my 3rd year as a psychology undergrad at SDSU. To finish out my last year of college, I plan to spend the fall semester at the Vrije University of Amsterdam, in the Netherlands. I've been accepted to the university and will leave sometime in mid-August, and return to the States in January. In anticipation of the trip I am both nervous and thrilled. Although I have experience leaving home and going to an unknown place not knowing anyone (leaving Hawaii and coming to San Diego for school), I have never lived in a foreign country, let alone spent the holidays so far from home (on the other side of the world, for that matter). However, I am really really excited for my upcoming travels as I've never been to Europe, and know I will love the easy-going lifestyle the Dutch have. I hope all of you have wonderful adventures abroad too! 

Truly Useful Information: Help for Beverage Budgeting

While verifying some of the budget numbers in students' travel plans, I ran across this website - Price of a Pint that allows you to look up the price of a pint of beer around the world. While I don't want to encourage excessive drinking, I think it provides an interesting benchmark to help you get a feel for the relative cost of various items around the world. Sort of a beer index, if you will... ;-)

TSA- Ralph's 5th Post

While packing, I became really concearned about what I could and could not carry with me on the plane. It's been a little over 5 years since i've travelled overseas. And even then I had my parents telling me what I was suppose to bring and not bring. With all the recent restrictions and all these new different terrorist color codes who knows what permitted or prohibited these days. I found the TSA website to be very helpful. Heres the link for everyone else who's curious!

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Other Opportunities for Learning Abroad

In addition to traditional university exchange programs, there are lots of volunteer opportunities for people wishing to travel overseas for more than just a vacation. One that I am familiar with (I have family members who have participated in their programs and found them very rewarding) is Cross-Cultural Solutions which has a variety of volunteer options for students including some that offer college credit. Programs last from 2-12 weeks in one of a dozen countries from Costa Rica to Ghana. They also have scholarship and fundraising opportunities that can help defray the cost of the program.

Packing my luggage! ralph's 4th post

I turned in my last Final (a 10 page paper) this morning, now i can finally fully focus on my trip! I just bought a lonely planet travel guide for thailand, and it has a lot of good information, facts, and even maps. It breaks the country down into sections and those sections into popular attractions. It should be a great read during my long flight from lax to bangkok. everyone else was doing it so heres a picture of where i'll be studying...

Music lover???

I heard about this great festival that they hold in my city in France. As an avid music lover and would love to attend but I found out it is held in July and I wont be there in time but I might ahve to make a special trip back during my summer in Europe in 2009. 

I found this awesome website about it and here's the link for it.  "As Edinburgh is Festival City in Britain, so Aix-en-Provence fulfills this role for France. Founded in 1948, the Lyric Festival bring the very best of music and opera to historic venues throughout the town."

I am really hoping I can make it to this. French festivals seem to be where it's at. :D

~Loni 

Fun French Facts:

The French do things a tad different....

1. Wine is free with most meals (including lunch) but you have to pay for milk for your coffee. 

2. Public toilets usually have no toilet seat, and you have to pay to get it!

3. The streets run in every possible direction, and the intersections are circular. Have fun navigating!!

4. There are almost as many motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds as cars.

5. Most of the cars are small, and 2-seaters are not uncommon. 

6. The student dorm rooms have a sink and a bidet, but no toilet. It's up to you to figure that one out.

7. Beer is considered a luxury drink and saved only for special occasions. (Imagine my horror.) Wine is essentially everywhere, often free.

8. When you sit down at a restaurant, they do not offer you a drink. When you order your meal, they do not offer you a drink. After your meal, they do not offer you a drink. It's just assumed that you will drink water and wine with every meal. Soda, juice, and beer are like special requests.

9. The coffee is like rocket fuel. Imagine espresso, make it taste more like crude oil with some camphor in it, double the size. After 2 or 3 of those, it's near impossible to type.

10. It is often hot, cold, rainy, sunny, storming, drizzling, windy, calm, and dry several times in the same day. Makes dressing in the morning the most complicated task of the day. 

I thought these were pretty entertaining and several of these I had no idea about. Just goes to show that it's a good idea to do your homework before you leave. 

~Loni

This is an excerpt from Austin at www.groundstate.ca/node/256

Loni's #4 and links

Bonjour! 

France has some incredible things to do and places to see. Here is a link for some of those....

French Holidays, Events, and Festivals

Here is another link for some interesting information about Aix-en-Provence. It includes a description of the different areas of the city, how to actually pronounce the name, the markets, and transportation.  Aix-en-Provence Info

Chelsea 5th Post

RUNNIG OF THE BULLS!!!

July 7th to the 14th in Santo Domingo, thousands gather to participate in the running of the bulls. The bulls are let out and they run down the narrow streets of Spain. A gun goes off to let the runners know the bulls are free. They all run for their lives and finally the bulls run into pens, and then they are killed later that day. This is one of the biggest events in Spain. I am hoping that I might get to see it. Bull fighting is also really popular and goes on in Spain throughout the year. 

Fountains in Aix....

The city of Aix-en-Provence where I'll be studying next year is often referred to as the city of a thousand fountains. I am looking forward to using my passion for photography to capture these beautiful fountains.  Among the most notable is the seventeenth century Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins (Fountain of the Four Dolphins) in the Quartier Mazarin designed by Jean-Claude Rambot along with a monumental fountain from 1860 that is located at the bottom of the Rotonde (main hub in modern Aix). The fountain (pictured here) is set beneath 3 giant statues representing art, justice, and agriculture. 

Gondolas, French, the Alps, and Vespas....

Bonjour! Many of you know that I am headed to the south of France in August. Looking ahead to what is sure to be a TRIP OF A LIFETIME I have a list of goals I wish to accomplish while abroad.

~ I will strive to gain fluency in French during my time there. I will find a conversation partner, ask tons of questions, and do my very best to not fall back on my English. 

~ Barring unforeseen circumstances and financial destitution I shall spend my weekends and holidays traveling Europe, particularly Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. I shall document my travels through photography. 

On a more personal level I desire to do a few very specific (and somewhat random things) including: 

-ride a gondola down the Grand Canal in Venice

-go hiking in the Alps

-ride a Vespa through the streets of Italy

-go sailing in the Mediterranean

- sing on a street corner for money 

All of which out to help make my time overseas as memorable as possible :D

~Loni

Hyde Park

Personal Journal Entry: For anyone who is planning on going to Australia I recommend visiting Hyde Park !

Hyde Park, Sydney, New South Wales , Australia

HYDE PARK It's funny how you see something so often ,yet know so little about it so yesterday I decided to undertake a decent exploration of Hyde Park. What I've discovered, is that this is a really worthwhile place to enjoy over a couple of hours. It has some fascinating history that you have to put your imagination hard to work. It's hard to believe that when Governor Lachlan Macquarie developed this park in 1810(named after its counterpart in London) as a part of his grand plan for Sydney it began as an exercise & recreation area for his 73rd regiment & the officers actually laid out a racetrack that ran for just over 2Km. Apparently there was a grandstand that I believe would be pretty well where Bar Quattro & St James Station is.This was so successful that it continued (except for a 5 year break after the 73rd was transferred out) until around March 1825. I found it difficult to conjure up images of any of this, but there is plenty to enjoy without having to relive the history. That's why you can allow yourself a couple of hours. You can use it to relax & recharge the batteries after busy sightseeing &/or shopping. You can take a picnic lunch or a simple couple of sandwiches & a drink (as so many of the city workers do) & just relax if you want. There are many ways to enjoy this lovely place. There are a number of statues with different stories & of course there is the not to be missed ANZAC War Memorial which I will add as a stand alone tip because I believe it to be worthy of such. You can start at Bar Quattro with a coffee & a snack or you could finish there for lunch, but be warned it would be best to book your table that morning as I went the other day for lunch & couldn't get a table.

My Reflections

I had a very fun time in the class and felt that I have learned a lot of valuable information regarding travel and keeping in communication with loved ones. I feel that this class has opened my eyes to a lot of technology related features that I would never have discovered by myself. I hope that everybody has safe travels and gets to have the time of their lives !
Safe Travels

Mike Morton

Jamye's 3rd

hey everyone! this is where i will be studying next spring! im really excited and i cant wait!

Austin Post 7

For my last post before heading home I wanted to explain a little about the program that I am going on. It is called the gllobal village program and it is at yonsei university in wonju. Americans from all over the country participate and all feedback I have heard has been extremely positive. Each American student is boarded with three korean students in dormitory setting. Americans are required to do about 10 hours a week of instructional activity with Korean Students. In exchange we receive approximately $3000 with free housing. I expect this to pretty much cover most of my trip so I am very excited. This is a great opportunity to see the world for practically no money. If you guys have fun abroad, but spend all of your money in Europe, or Australia, or wherever you are going, this could be a great opportunity to give your funds a break and continue traveling.

Austin Post 6

I had a little free time today and did some research on some things that maybe fun to do while traveling in Korea. Two things which I found interesting were Taekwondo classes and green tee tours. Many classes offer ways to practice the korean language while building self-defense techniques as well as character. I actually found study abroad programs that revolve around integrating language with martial arts if anyone is interested. They have programs for all combinations of skills in fighting and speaking. As for the green tee fields, they simply look amazing. There are endless hills of perfectly manicured bushes. Most travelers online reccomend going early in the morning because there is a refreshing mist which covers the hills. I hope to take a tour and try some fresh local green tea

Going To A Land Downunder !!

Hey all,

Just a recent update on my travel plans. I have been accepted to Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia and can't be more excited. I hope to be leaving a few weeks before my official arrival date and catch up with some friends in Adelaide in Southern Australia. My ISEP program seems to be very good, and I am excited to get to travel throughout the country, challenging myself to grow emotionally and academically. In Australia we get a mid-semester break which is about 2 weeks, I plan on making a trip to Northern Queensland where I have some friends. My most exciting trip is going to be during the Christmas break, I am planning on making my way to Thailand for a nice and relaxing summer !!

Safe Travels,

Mike Morton

Austin Post 5

Hi Chelsea I was reading your post and noticed that you have plans to get a job in Spain as a waitress. I was wondering how you made plans to get a job so far in advance in another country. Also what kind of restaurant is it, and can I come get a free meal if I go to Spain?

Austin Post 4

Hi guys, I'm just getting ready to rap up the semester and wanted to wish everyone a happy summer vacation. I had a lot of fun in the class and was really glad I took it. Not only did it help me get prepared and feel more comfortable about studying abroad, it also helped teached me technological skills which I can use whether I am here or in another country. I'm excited about mainting my website and getting some really great photos to chart my journey. Be sure to check my website or leave a message if you want to say hi.

Austin's 3rd post

I am still waiting for my acceptance to the global village for this coming Fall Semester. I am starting to get a little nervous because there are a lot of things that I will need to do such as get a visa once my letter arrives. Hopefully it comes soon so I won't have to worry for too much longer. Does anyone know what you are supposed to do for Fall registration at SDSU if you plan to go on an independent program as I do?

Austin's goals Post 2

Academically I would like to attend an institution that has a strong reputation as to build my resume, and surround myself with like-minded, motivated individuals. It would be particularly beneficial to me if I was able to attend an institution known in the business or law community. I hope to keep my schedule light however, in order to maintain my g.p.a. and give myself the opportunity to explore my surroundings and interact with the people around me. Personally I would like to live in a clean, safe environment with many activities such as athletics and night life geared towards people in my age group. I will have to research the particular institution that I choose in order to make sure that they accomodate some of the extra curriculars that I am looking for.I also hope to make some friends and connections that will last a lifetime. In order to do this I will have to be outgoing and open to new experiences.

Chelsea: 4th Post Summer

As you all know I am going to Madrid, Espana in August. But my Spanish is no bueno. So I have decided to do a full immersion course in Mexico (Cuernavaca) for four weeks in July. I am going with a program called Cemanahuac Educational Community. I will be living with a family, going to school just to learn Spanish, and I will also have a "partner" a Mexican local who will talk with me in Spanish and I will talk with him in English. I am hoping this will help my Spanish before I get to Spain. Although I am a little worried about the accent because the Spanish and South American and Central American are all so different. In August I am going to be working in the South of Spain in Cadiz. There is a place in Cadiz on the coast called Andalusian in the city of Costa De La Luz. I am being a waitress there, and I am never nervous. I have never worked at a restaurant, let alone in a country where I am not to familiar with the language. So if any of you are traveling around Europe this summer, I would be fun to see a familiar face. I will be there is August, and will be leaving in September for Madrid since my school starts September 4th. I also think it would be neat if all the people going to Europe could keep i touch. That way if I am going to France, I can e-mail Loni and ask her where to go, the good hostels and other exciting things. The same with England, I can e-mail Linda or Hannah and ask them the same thing. I am also more than happy to do that for anybody who e-mails me about Madrid. Keep in touch.

Chelsea

Chelsea 3rd Post: Madrid

Woho! I am done with my Sophomore year. I also got my classes approved by SDSU which is such a good feeling. For the fall semester, I am five classes. 20th Century European History and Cinema, Drawing Madrid 1, Intermediate Spanish 1 and 2, and Spain seen by Photography. Once I get to Madrid I have some time to sort out my schedule in case I want to take other classes and drop these ones. I will be studying at La Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, it is about a 15 minute subway ride from the center of Madrid. I sent an e-mail to the housing advisor for the program and requested to live in the city. I am doing a homestay and so I am not really sure on the options I have. I hope everybody is taking exciting classes abroad. I look forward to hearing about them.  

Allison B Post 3

YESSS the semester is over! I'm glad I ended up taking this class GS350. It really helped me organize my ideas, thoughts, and goals for studying abroad. I wasn't exactly sure when and where I was going, but researching a specific place helped me realize there is more to a foreign city than just the touristy things to do.
I have to make more follow up appointments with the ISC about my exact travel dates and what classes I will take when I'm there, all the logistical information, etc. I wonder how many exercise science classes they offer in England..or if there are any gyms there? Are most people staying on campus or with a host family? I haven't decided on that one..
Otherwise hope y'all have safe and amazing travels, and enjoy your summer as well :)

Allison B Post 2

GOAL STATEMENT:

I’m in my third year here at SDSU, majoring in Kinesiology and minoring in Sociology. I plan to study abroad in England in the spring of 2009. I am not sure what university I want to study in; I would love to stay in the city of London.
I have several goals pertaining to my study abroad experience and my life within in the next year.A personal goal of mine also coincides with cultural goals and my academic work I plan to do in England. My major at SDSU is Exercise Science and I currently work as a personal fitness trainer. Since being in school and my personal experience in the gym, I have gained a wide range of knowledge in the fields of fitness, nutrition, new exercises, etc. By studying kinesiology abroad, I will be able to gain new knowledge on exercise and fitness, and be able to share that knowledge with my coworkers and clients.
I plan on studying in a university where I can take specific kinesiology classes. I also want to live in a populated, metropolitan area, where I can have more access to fitness equipment, health centers or gyms, etc. I am excited to learn about the attitude on fitness in the U.K.; I want to be able to share my knowledge on fitness, and also bring back new exercises, research, etc back to my clients in the U.S. This goal covers two goals; the academic goal is that I want to learn as much of European exercise and fitness as I can, and the personal aspect is to be able to apply that knowledge when I arrive home.
I want to be able to gain as much knowledge as I can, not only from school, but from the environment that I’m living in as well. I want to mingle with the locals; of course I want to experience all the touristy, cultural spots in England, like Stonehenge, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace. But a cultural goal would be to make friendships with the locals I meet there. I want to experience England as if I live there. I want to visit the local pubs and dance clubs…the occasional weekend trip to Scotland…I want to visit the places unknown to tourists, the places where the locals go on the weekend.

Allison B Post 1

Hey y'all I'm Allison. I'll be 21 in two days woo hoo and i just finished up my 3rd year here at SDSU. I'm majoring in Kinesiology and minoring in Sociology. I've got about 3 more semesters left...yep, the five year plan...I plan on studying abroad in England in the spring of 2009, so a year from now. I want to stay an entire semester, and maybe a few extra weeks afterwards to spend some time traveling. Hope everyone has a great time abroad!

Italy!!!

Hey everyone. The semester is finally over!!! I'm sure everyone is happy. I am sooo excited to go to Italy next year. I have been keeping up with some of the news over there and there is a lot going on. They just recently had an incident with some people from Naples burning down gypsy camps so I'm a little nervous about that. They also have the Giro d' Italia going on right now which is a very long and popular bike race over there. Also if your interested in more of the current events going on over there you can check out this website where it has a lot of news in English.
I would really love to travel while I'm over there also. I want to go to tons of places in Italy but if I have time I would also love to go to Greece, France, Spain, and many other places. So if any of you are going to be in either Italy or any of those places next spring keep in touch! Well I am very happy that the semester is over and I plan on enjoying my summer and some free time. Hopefully I will see some of you in my classes next fall and if not I hope everyone has a great time on their trips, I know I will!

Information meeting - Ralph post 3

I went to the final info meeting about my trip the other day. I met the rest of the group members that I will be traveling with. We had a quick presentation about what to expect and what we will be looking forward to. I'll be jumping our of buildings, riding elephants, and visiting thai prisons.. just to start with. The meeting got me really excited for the trip! I can't wait.

getting my student visa - Ralph post #2

I'm leaving for my trip in 10 days! With me being smack in the middle of finals, and my trip to thailand coming up, i've been stressing out. To add more stress to the situation, I haven't filed my visa yet. It's too late to do process it through the mail, so I'm going ot have to drive to LA to the Thai Consulate and process it in person. So heres some advice to other travelers.... process your visa ahead of time! it'll be cheaper (cause of gas prices) and it'll save you the time and trouble of having to drive to LA.

I'm Scared!!!

Is anyone else as scared to study abroad as I am?! I am freaking out! It might be because I'm leaving so soon...I haven't mentally prepared myself yet I guess. It's coming up so fast. Does anyone have any suggestions to alleviate my fears? haha. I never thought I'd be scared to leave. But I guess it's just something I have to do, I've always told myself that I was going to study abroad while in college, and Australia was always where I pictured myself going.

I think I'm just freaking myself out right now, but once I get there I won't regret it.

I'm really glad I took this class, it has definitely helped to physically prepare myself. I feel that I have gained a lot of information that would have been difficult to get elsewhere. I really like this blog, I hope to stay in touch with everyone and hear about your travels. Especially after hearing everyone's goals and things they hope to accomplish. It will be interesting to see if it all actually happens, myself included! I wish you all safe journey's and lets keep this going to stay in touch!

Cheers everyone!

Goalsssss

Well I have a few goals while abroad...as many of you do.
Mainly, I just want to make myself a worldlier person. Living and learning a different culture will be an experience never to forget and one that most people don't get the chance to live.
Although Australia is not too different than California, I still expect to experience culture shock while abroad. To me, it is just as foreign and peculiar as a European country is. While living in Australia, I want to take in every ounce of Australian/Aboriginal culture and live as any college student in Adelaide does. Right now, I do not exactly know what that may entail (perhaps, spending “study” hours in the bars?), but I can only hope to live up to their expectations and standards while completely immersing myself into their culture. To be a bit more specific, one thing that I really want to do while in Australia is visit the Australia Zoo, home of the infamous Crocodile Hunter. I am passionate about animals and the environment, and to be in a place where this is vital to Australian culture will be very exciting for me. To get me into the Australian “mood” I’ve been visiting the San Diego Zoo’s Australian animal’s exhibits, such as the Koalas and Kangaroos. Being an American, any way I can educate or participate in some form of Australian culture, such as the simplicity of viewing these precious animals at the zoo, has given me a feeling of enculturation and has pumped me up for my trip.
If you want to take a look at my website we've been building...feel free!http://lyndeejo27.googlepages.com/australia

G'Day!

Hey Guys,

Lyndee here...

As of now, I've officially been accepted to the University of South Australia in Adelaide. Classes start July 14th so I leave really soon!!! Bad news is...if I don't pass my calculus class, I can't go! Long story...but things are looking up and I'm expecting to go. So as soon as I get my grade I'll be able to buy my plane ticket and get things organized! I will be taking 3 business classes while I'm there. Once I arrive, me and the other students will be staying in a hostel for about 2 weeks while we find our own housing. Alumni that I've talked to said that the cheapest and best place to find housing is on the beach! So that would be really exciting. I plan on staying for the Fall semester (Spring in Australia) so I will return to the US in late November, early December. I'm really excited, but really nervous!!!

I'll keep you all posted on everything!

Lyndee

Lindsey Marx Post #3

Hey there!

Woo hoo, finally the semester has ended and I have successfully completed General Studies 350. This class has been very helpful in preparing me to study abroad. As you already know, I plan on studying abroad in Florence, Italy. I am actually just about to start my application for my program and they will let me know if I have been accepted a week after I apply. So I should know pretty soon if I will be going for sure. This class was really helpful in getting me started with the whole application process. I now feel much more prepared to go abroad. 

I am extremely excited to live in Italy. There are so many places that I plan to visit including Rome, Milan, Paris, Amsterdam, Greece, and Spain. I have always wanted to live in another country and have the freedom to travel to other countries, I just cannot believe that I finally have the opportunity to do it. Now that its summer, I should have some time to go pick up some books and start learning the language. I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable trip! Have fun, I know I will!!!

-Lindsey Marx 

Viva la France

Bonjour! My name is Loni and I'm going to France come August. I will be studying in Aix-en-Provence in the south of France near Marseille. I am a History Major and French minor. I will be going through CSU-IP and staying for a year. I have only studied French for one year and upon arrival I shall be taking a 6 week Intensive French course. My university classes shall begin in October and go through May. After my academic year I shall spend the summer traveling Europe. I am SO EXCITED!!! I love to travel and can't wait to meet lots of new people, have some crazy adventures, and see all there is to see. I am hoping to be fluent in French upon my return. If you happen to end up in the south of France look me up!! Bon voyage!

Chelsea's 2nd post

For those of you who haven't heard from your programs or are still on the waiting list should check out USAC. - University Studies Abroad Consortium. This is the program I am going with and they offer you a lot. You do not need any language requirements and its less expensive than some programs. Also SDSU recognizes them so most of the classes you want to take abroad you will be able to transfer your credits. Good luck to everybody next year!

Chelsea 

Rob's third post

Through this General Studies 350 class, I have grown in my understanding of other cultures. Through this, my plans and expectations of my study abroad trip have changed as well. The assignments made me actually consider what it was that i wanted to accomplish while abroad. Also the last assignment made me plan out my trip and figure ways in which i will pay for this journey. All in all, this course was a tremendous help in figuring out my adventure.

Areas that i plan on visiting while abroad include: Everywhere in Ireland, Germany, England, Italy, and Greece. This of course is if I can afford to go to these places. Specific places in Ireland would be Blarney Castle, this way i can kiss the blarney stone and achieve perfect speech, The Guinness factory, and the Smith wicks factory. Also the castles around Ireland would be amazing to visit and experience the history that this new country possesses.

Rob's second post

To enhance my study abroad experience in Limerick, Ireland, I have created three goals in which I hope to accomplish. The three goals focus on different aspects of my journey. They include one Academic, personal, and cultural.

The first goal is related to academics. Since the University of Limerick offers a wide variety of History classes, I will fully take advantage of this opportunity. I will attend classes that will allow me to better understand the unique histories of these countries while at the same time obtaining 12-15 units towards my degree.

For my cultural goal, I want to experience all that Ireland and Europe have to offer. I want to travel to and kiss the Blarney Stone, Visit the Guiness factory, the Smithwicks factory, and through the use of Ryan Air, travel to Italy, Germany, England.

My third and final goal is a personal one. I want to go to an actual futball game in England. I have always loved Chelsea and Manchester United. Another personal goal of mine is that I want to be able to speak with an Irish accent fluently.

http://pages.google.com/edit/Rober10101/home?authtoken=bd4de1a44d138f2adc3971e6d05d7fd335c84685
Check out my adventures at my Website.

Rob's intro

Hi, My name is Robert Collins. I plan on studying abroad in the spring of 2009. The country I chose to study at is Ireland. The reason being, I have family that currently live in Bangor, Ireland which is located on the North east part of the country. The program is plan on using is the SUNY NEW PALTZ program which is located in Limerick, Ireland.

What to do? Post 3

Unfortunately I still have not heard whether I am accepted into Yonsei University yet. It's almost the middle of May and I am getting really anxious. So what to do?

Right now I am going to worry about finals, but after Thursday I'm going to start getting some answers! I think I will e-mail the school. Does anyone have suggestions???

Sun

My goals while abroad

Hi again! Well, like i said, I plan to study abroad in Spain during the Spring 2009 semester. I have chosen to go to Sevilla with the API program. Since I have declared a Spanish major, Spain is a good choice for me academically. I plan to take mostly Spanish language classes while I am abroad. I'm also excited to learn about a different culture and experience new things. I'm interested in learning more about Spanish art and architecture. I plan to take at least one art class while I am abroad to document what I have learned, along with the pictures I will take of architectural art. Also, given that i save as much money as I am planing to, I would like to travel during my spring break to Paris, France and the Netherlands to visit Amsterdam. I will be able to document those journey's with pictures and journal entries. My personal goal while abroad is to become fluent in the Spanish language, because I think that it would benefit me for the rest of my life considering it is becoming a very common language in the US. When I return to SDSU and continue persuing my Spanish major, it will test how fluent I actually am.

Travel Plans

Hi my name is Jamye Sharp. Im going to Sevilla, Spain with the api program in the spring semester of 2009. I hope i enjoy it and i hope to become fluent in the Spanish language while I am there. I also hope to immerse myself completley in the Sevillan culture.

I see London I see France, I see....

Funny stuff about England!

In England during World War I, many German names and titles were changed and given more English-sounding names, including the royal family's from Saxe-Coburg-Gotha to Windsor. Kaiser Wilhelm II countered this by jokingly saying that he was off to see a performance of 'The Merry Wives of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha.'

Topless saleswomen are legal in Liverpool, England, but only in tropical fish stores!

The shortest war in history was between Zanzibar and England in 1896. Zanzibar surrendered after 38 minutes

Where did soccer originate? It is believed that the first recorded soccer game took place on a Shrove Tuesday in Derby, England, as part of a festival to celebrate the victory of English soldiers over Roman troops ( a.d. 217). By 1175 the annual Shrove Tuesday soccer game was a regular event.

Tony Blair is the first Prime Minister to have been born during The Queens reign. He was born in early May, 1953 - a month before the Coronation. 

During the 1600's, England celebrated a day called "Mothering Sunday." Servants would go home to see their families, bringing cakes and sweets to their moms. This custom was called "going a-mothering". Each mother would recieve a simnel-cake (Latin for "fine flour) and mother's would give a blessing to their children.

If you fart consistently for 6 years and 9 months, enough energy is produced to create an atomic bomb

(okay that was unnecessary!)

post #2 I have goals!

http://LindaGali33.googlepages.com/home  (revamped)

I believe that my stay in the England will be most advantageous to me if I understand exactly why I want to study there specifically and how I will benefit from this choice.  I have three goals: academic, personal, and cultural.  Here are the goals I have chosen to work towards in order to reach personal, academic, and cultural fulfillment.

My personal goal is simply to make international friends.  Through an open mind and positive attitude, I hope to gain life long connections with student peers by inviting to day trips, study groups and pubs.

Given an open effort on my part, I will advance knowledge of the science of psychology by attending classes and getting to know professors on a first name basis.  If I achieve this academic goal it will benefit me for the rest of my life.

When I have free time, with whatever my saving allow, I will travel to the most attractive historical cites, diners, clubs, and pubs in Bristol and London.  This cultural goal will be accomplished by mapping out a cohesive itinerary.

AND VIDEO CHATS!!!

Linda

buttie short of a picnic!!!

Hi, I'm Linda and soon to be in her majesty's land of England.  I will be going for the full academic year of 2008/2009.  I will most likely being going to London Metropolitan University where everything but a pint of beer is expensive!!!

I look forward to the many cultural differences I will encounter.  I hope to assimilate as much as I can so that I can have the most fulfilling and rich experience abroad.  In fact, I hope to come back to America what they call anglicized!

I will be studying my course(major,) psychology, as well as join as many student union groups(clubs) as possible so I can witness British student life. I look forward to my experience abroad.  Now all I need to do is get on that visa!

Jacqueline Post #2

Hey, so I'm going to Florence, Italy next year and I am hoping to learn a lot academically. My major at state is Hospitality and Tourism Management and the school that I'm going to has a lot of classes in that area. So hopefully it will help me learn about tourism and how it works over there. I also want to just go to the tourist spots and museums so that I can learn more about their culture and tourism over there. Also I want to meet some of the local people so that they can show me around and I can grasp the culture better. Mostly, though, I just want to experience something new and hopefully have a good time. I hope I learn a lot about myself while I'm over there and I want to take tons of pictures to document it all. Check out my website though for more details on my goals and how I hope to accomplish them!

If you're still looking for something (or something else)

Hey guys, I know I talked about this a little bit in class last week, but when I was looking for things to do while on land I found a really cool program that you might be interested in. It's called Volunthai (Or Volunteers for Thailand depending on who you ask), and it gives you an opportunity to stay and experience local life in Thailand while developing lesson plans for teaching English to non-native speakers who have had previous experience with the language. It's cheap too, if money is an issue. I don't think you can earn education credits for it, but it would be an invaluable asset to put on your resume. If you want to check it out there's a lot more information on their website.

Matt's "Abbreviated" Goals Statement

My academic goal is: Given my general interest in teaching English as a foreign language as a possible career choice, I will need at the very least a college degree and certification. My cultural goal is: Given my desire to experience as much of the world as I can, I will need a way to travel to multiple destinations, as well as the ability or knowledge to survive in unfamiliar environments. My personal goal in life is: complicated. It's hard to simply identify any singular specific goal that I have in life. Assuming that this goal is related to our choices in international travel and study, I run into the problem of having too many things that I want to accomplish. So if I want to make sense of all this, the main thing I need to focus on is this: Given my desire to experience more than I likely will have time for, I will need the ability to make selective choices on what I want to do. This requires time, and clarity, both of which I need more of.

Global Traveler: Matt Deline

Hello Internet! My name is Matt Deline, I am currently finishing up my Junior year (well my first year at SDSU) as an English Major. I've been looking into the Semester at Sea program since 2003, and I think that I can finally justify the expenses involved to make it outside the US again. I hope to attend the Spring 2009 voyage, in which I will be docking at: Nassau, Bahamas; Cadiz, Spain; Naples, Italy; Istanbul, Turkey; Alexandria, Egypt; Chennai, India; Bankok, Thailand; Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Hong Kong and Shanghai, China; Kobe and Yokohama, Japan; Honolulu, Hawaii (USA); and Puntarenas, Costa Rica. If you would like to know more about me, or would like a more regular update on the progress of my trip you can find it at my website.

Lindsey Marx Post #2

During my spring semester of 2009, I plan to study abroad in Florence, Italy. While overseas, I would love to absorb the Italian culture and experience the educational system that Italy has to offer. I am very curious to see the differences between school systems in American compared to school systems in Italy. Given enough time and preparation, I will be able to pick a program that best fits my interests. I hope to take an Italian class while abroad, so I can learn some of the language. My main goal is to have fun and just enjoy living in another country because it seems like a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Check out my web page here:

http://lindsey.marx.googlepages.com/

-Lindsey Marx

International Studies

In this class i learned very useful facts about traveling abroad. Things that most people might think is common sense who have not traveled as much. By taking this class i feel much more prepared for my trip to Denmark, and by having this website it will be interesting to see and hear how everyone else's adventures are going. Without this class i probably wouldn't have event thought about making a journal or posting pictures and updates for people to see. This website will not only store my adventures for other people to see, but it will be something great for me to look back on. Once summer starts im going home to Truckee and im definetly keeping in touch with me friends mom who is actualy a citizen of Denmark. I cant wait to hear more about her adventures and what i have to look forward to on my trip! I hope everyone succeeds with all of their adventures and i cant wait to hear about them!

Good Luck!

Goals

My academic goal while in Denmark is to sdjust to a new way of teaching and excel in my knowledge of child development. Culturaly i hope to learn the Danish language and make new local friends to experience their different traditions. Personaly im planning on traveling and finding independence away from my family and friends to see the world!! I cant wait for next spring!

Goal Statement - Post 2

There are many goals I have while studying abroad in Korea. Essentially, my goal for any place I travel is to walk away with an understanding of their culture, history and especially their current affairs in terms of business, politics, and social aspects. Most importantly, by observing and experiencing daily life in another culture, I will be able to view how their society operates. Relationships with friends, family and colleagues, as well as customs, mannerisms, likes and dislikes are all aspects of Korean life that I will study. Understanding people, how our world works, why we live the way we do are all important for me to help find my own journey.

Specifically, I plan to go snowboarding in Korea - just to say I have (I didn't know it snowed there). As a visitor, I would also love to become comfortable with the place by adjusting my style of dress, my behavior and personality to parallel a local citizen. By assimilating into their culture, I do not plan to ignore and deny myself (personality, style, attitude, etc), but just explore the differences and similarities.

To read more about my goals, check out my Goal Statement page.

Thanks for reading, catch you soon!

Sun

Intro Post 1

Hey all, My name's Sun. I am still waiting to hear back from Yonsei University in South Korea. I will be studying at the Global Village in Wonju, about a 30 minutes drive from Seoul. If accepted, I will be leaving end of August for a semester in South Korea. Wish me luck!

Lindsey Marx

Hey there! My name is Lindsey Marx and I am currently a sophomore here at San Diego State University. I plan to study abroad next spring in Florence, Italy. I am looking at a program called Study Abroad Italy, and I will be studying at the school Florence University of the Arts

Jacqueline Murphy

Hi everyone, my name is Jacqueline and I'm in my sophmore year here at SDSU. I hope to study abroad in Florence, Italy next year for Spring 2009. I am going through Florence University of the Arts. The housing at the University is apartments with other students studying abroad so I am looking forward to a great experience! I can't wait to go over there and see what its like.

Ralph Dimarucut

My name is Ralph Dimarucut. I will be leaving for Thailand in 2 weeks! I will be stuying at Chulalonkorn University in Bangkok for 6 weeks.

Cassidy Roderigue

Hi, my name is Cassidy and i am currently a sophmore at san diego state hoping to study abroad in the spring of 2009. I'm planning on going to Copenhagen, Denmark through the CSU program. The reason i chose Denmark is because of the Child Development programs they have available. Denmark was also recently voted the happiest country in the world, so i cant wait to go check it out.

Hi, Im Chelsea Randall.

I am a student at San Diego State, but I am headed to Madrid for the fall 08 and spring 09 of next year.  I have really enjoyed General Studies 350. If anybody is going to be in Europe during the summer, let me know.

Chelsea

Austin Glicher Post 1

Hi my name is Austin Glicher I hope to travel to South Korea from late August to early December. I will be attending Yonsei University in Wonju. I will participate in the global village program which links international students from all over the world. This program requires intermingled rooming arrangements with three other Korean students, so it should be exciting and educational!

Welcome to the SDSU Global Travelers Blog

This blog is a forum for the students of SDSU's GS350: Going Global class first offered in Spring 2008. During the course students developed travel study plans and shared them with classmates. These plans included:

• Personal, cultural and academic goal setting
• Exploring the cultural challenges that they will face
• Setting up personal websites to document their journeys
• Learning about the latest communication technologies to keep in touch
• Logistics and budgeting for their travels

As they embark on their journeys, it is our hope that they will continue to share the highlights of their experiences with classmates, family, friends and faculty through this blog, their personal sites and by other means using new technologies as well as traditional means [Don't forget to send postcards home ;-)].