During Fall Break 2016, a group of the International Affairs Scholars Program traveled together to Toronto, Ontario. We left October 13th and returned back to Ohio State the night of the 16th. We traveled to many locations that offered different educational experiences. We visited the Aga Kahn Museum as well as the Ismaili Centre and it was interesting to learn that much of the art and architecture that seemed ordinary held very symbolic meanings. This was a very unique opportunity to learn about a religion very different from my own and one that is not as popular where I come from. Later that day we also attended the Royal Ontario Museum where we were taught about the indigenous people as well as the museum’s impressive fossil collection. The next day we toured Casa Loma, the mansion built for Sir Henry Pellatt who brought hydro-electricity to Toronto and we even drove past one of his power stations by Niagara Falls. We then took the opportunity to head up the CN Tower where we were able to overlook the entire city. Finally, before we crossed back into the United States, we had to swing by to see the Falls.

This trip was an amazing experience to not only learn about a different culture but also to have an opportunity to build a community with my fellow students. Together we did many other fun activities such as attending a comedy show featuring comedians from all over the world as well stepping outside of my comfort zone while going swing dancing. As this was my first time outside of the country since I was a child, it also opened my eyes to the appeal of traveling and affirmed my desire to see the world.