Hi, I’m Favi. I’m a Peruvian international student who has been living in Oregon for the past four years. Experiencing another country’s culture, food, and traditions has once again proven to be enriching and eye-opening to me. A formative experience for me was a trip I took to Europe when I was fifteen, where I saw the place that first inspired me to pursue a career in architecture. I’m incredibly grateful that while on my study abroad trip, I got to revisit that place: the Basilica of Assisi. The first time I saw it, I was captivated by the church’s humbleness paired with its grandeur, as well as the materials and philosophy it was built upon. The second visit, after just two weeks of architectural study in my program, allowed me to see the Basilica with new eyes. I could now interpret the details and intentions behind the design, which left me in awe once again. What was once simply impressive and incomprehensible has transformed into deep admiration for the architects, engineers, and painters who created it.
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One reason I chose my specific program, Architecture in Vincenza, was because it intrigued me the most as an aspiring architect. Deciding on the Vicenza program over other architecture options at UO was a bit challenging, but after learning the program emphasized sketching and freehand media — areas I’ve always wanted to improve — I knew it was the right fit.
My program has been incredible so far. We only arrived in Vincenza a few days ago, but the first two weeks in Rome and Florence were unforgettable. One of my favorite experiences so far was drawing in a museum, where two people quietly sat next to me and watched me work. Their silent presence made me feel less pressured about how I was drawing and more focused on what I was drawing. That ended up also being one of my best sketches.
Being Peruvian, I believe I grew up spoiled with the kind of food I ate — especially my mom’s cooking. Our dishes usually include at least one big protein source and different types of vegetables and carbs around the meat. Being here, I’ve learned that some meals can be the other way around, like pizza and pasta. The difference between having a full chicken breast or drumsticks versus just a few slices of meat — or none at all — was something I had to get used to. But little by little, I’ve discovered more and more things I really enjoy. I was never a big fan of seafood before, but this trip has made me realize that I actually like it.
Being far from home is tough. Building a life in Eugene and then choosing to leave it for this incredible study abroad opportunity wasn’t easy — but isn’t that what builds character? Getting the chance to see and learn from the work of greats like Brunelleschi, Palladio, Michelangelo, Zaha Hadid, and Renzo Piano is something I will always be grateful for. This journey abroad is full of highs and lows, but it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
Faviana Olaguibel, Diverse Ducks Ambassador
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