This spring, I have been studying abroad at Franklin University in Switzerland. One of my favorite things so far has been the ability to connect with students from all over the world. I chose Franklin University due to its beautiful location and how easy it is to travel throughout Europe.
My favorite part of my semester abroad so far was the Academic Travel period and spring break. During the Academic Travel period, I had the opportunity to spend nine days in Bologna and Parma, Italy, traveling as a class with my professor. This trip gave me many enjoyable experiences, such as taking a pasta-making class, visiting a Parmigiano Reggiano factory, attending an opera, visiting many art galleries, and more. This was such a unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
During my spring break, I traveled to Marrakech, Morocco, where I did a three-day desert tour in the Sahara Desert. I was able to drive an ATV and ride a camel throughout the desert, something that is truly unforgettable.
I have also had the opportunity to do many day trips, such as visiting Basel, Bedretto, Bellinzona, Bern, Kandersteg, and Zurich, all in Switzerland, as well as Milan, Italy. During my day trips, I have visited many art museums, the zoo, gone on hikes, visited castles, and, of course, done a lot of shopping.
I am taking a lot of fun electives while I’m here, such as Food Journalism, Introductory Painting, and Photography. I love using my photography class as a way to document my travels and all of the new things I get to experience.
As the semester’s end is approaching, I have been enjoying the beautiful weather and looking forward to the end of the year. I am very grateful for my professors here at Franklin, and for Maria Adkins for all of her help throughout the application and visa process, and for making my time here possible.
–April 7, 2026–
