Sophia Braun is a sophomore animal biosciences major on the pre-veterinary track. She studied abroad on the Human and Animal Interactions program in Ireland during winter break 2023.

I had a lot of fun with the group I went with, there were a lot of different people, and I made friends with people I still talk to! I also enhanced my relationships with the people I already knew before going on this trip!

My favorite memory was being able to explore the Blarney caste and kissing the Blarney stone! Also, while we were at Blarney, we were able to do the OHIO under a rainbow! I also really loved going to the Dublin Zoo and watching the sea lions swim because they are my favorite animals.

I feel that it is important because it allowed me to experience a new culture by living the experience firsthand. It also helped me to see how there are different standards and norms all around the world!

I have learned to not judge a book by its cover, and I also learned that it is the amount of excitement and willingness you put into new adventures that make it fun. To have fun, you must have a positive mindset!

Being a global citizen means realizing that just because people’s cultures or norms are different than your own doesn’t make them any less important or relevant. We need to realize everyone is different and we should all embrace our differences because that’s what makes us fun, interesting, and unique!