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Returning to the US and settling back into my routine in Eugene was an eye-opening experience that deepened my appreciation for both cultures. While the differences between Italy and the US were immediately noticeable when I first arrived in Italy, it wasn’t until I came back that I truly understood the nuances. Everyday conveniences like iced coffee and air conditioning—things I had taken for granted—became more appreciated after living in a place where they weren’t as common.

Hey everyone! I've just wrapped up my incredible study abroad experience in Tokyo. I thought I'd share my journey of readjustment and some pieces of wisdom I've picked up along the way. 

I flew back to the US last week, August 4. Before returning to California I stayed a week in New York City to visit my brother. Being able to speak the language made me feel more respected by the culture. I had never been to New York so I didn’t know what to expect in terms of customs. New York is immensely diverse and I was surprised by the amount of Dominicans there. I didn’t feel as motivated to use my Spanish in New York but when I did practice, I didn’t want to use my Spanish accent as much.

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It was extremely hard leaving Siena yesterday.

Returning to the U.S. or the University of Oregon isn't my immediate concern, as I've already graduated and plan to spend the next month traveling through Vietnam and Japan. This extended time abroad allows me to further immerse myself in different cultures and savor my experiences without the immediate need to reintegrate into life back home.

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The hardest part of my time here is accepting the realization that my ethnic background has been blurred because of

Coming home from any trip can be a readjustment. Coming home from eight weeks studying abroad in a foreign country is certainly a new experience for many people, me included. When you first arrive in your study abroad country, it is easy to get caught up in the thought of what you would be doing at home. In this case, it is the reverse: getting caught up in the experience you just had.

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I fell in love with a woman, that woman is ME.

I have been absolutely loving my time abroad in Italy and my favorite part so far has been taking weekend adventures to other cities in the area. Siena is very centrally located with a great train and bus system that makes it easy to get around Tuscany. In my time here I have visited Genoa, Portofino, Castiglioncello, and Florence. Traveling around and seeing different cultures and traditions in Italy has been spectacular and has fulfilled my desire to stay active.

Hey everyone! I'm a little over halfway through my internship in Japan, and it’s been amazing. Is it what I expected? Yes and no – and that's what makes it so exciting and challenging at the same time. 

Let me tell you, being an African American student in Japan has been quite the experience. The hardest part? Definitely the language barrier. Despite my efforts to learn Japanese before and during my stay here, I still find myself fumbling through conversations like a toddler learning to walk. It's humbling, to say the least!