For my STEP Signature Project I embarked on the European Architecture Study Abroad trip where I traveled throughout Europe to Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands to observe and interact with important architecture.  The content of the trip consisted mainly of sketching buildings and environments, discussing nuances and histories of the architecture, and thinking critically about each place we went to.  We spent a lot of time traveling from place to place and a main activity of the trip was this transportation from one location to another.

I initially viewed this trip as an observational experience for myself. I thought that it would be an experience where I was taking information in and simply holding onto the information and facts that were presented to me.  I was surprised to find that although I did take information in, by the end of the trip I was able to more fully and clearly think of, and articulate ideas of my own.  I was able to form more just opinions, ones with a factual and intellectual basis rather than simply relying on what I “think” would make sense.  I also found that throughout the course of the trip I became more and more able to engage in meaningful conversations with Professors and TA’s who had a stronger knowledge in the field than I do.  I went from an observer to an active participant not only in the conversations of the trip but also by becoming more confident in the thoughts and opinions within myself. 

As for how my views of the world changed, going into the trip I had a limited view of the world.  Prior to leaving I had only been to the United States and Canada meaning I hadn’t gotten very many first hand experiences of other cultures, ways of lifes, customs, landscapes, languages, and everything else that happens outside of North America.  However, throughout the trip I got the chance to observe and absorb these differences and not only become more knowledgeable about the customs of the places I visited, but also become more knowledgeable on the architecture, art, and beauty they offered as well.

One of the main experiences which shaped my STEP signature project was the ability to have direct contact with my instructors.  Working closely with my professors and TA’s meant that I was able to have conversations and ask questions about what we were learning in a more open environment and led me to feel like I had a firmer grasp on what we were seeing.  It also allowed me to develop better questions and bolder opinions that I felt I was able to back up with evidence and solidarity rather than my own thoughts on a whim.  I also benefited greatly from my interactions with the buildings that I got to visit. Being able to see, walk through, and engage with the buildings which I had learned about only in a classroom setting helped me not only put  a scale to the project but also understand better how each one was used, designed, and constructed.  I was also shaped by the interactions I had with the people who lived in the places we went and each one was helpful to understanding the cultures of whichever place I was in.

The activities I engaged in helped me to change and transform throughout the trip as well.  The most prominent example would be traveling to a myriad of ancient roman amphitheaters.  Each one gave me a look into the role that history plays in modern life in its own unique way.  They provided a look into the past and the traditions not only of the theater itself but of the town, city, or country that it was in.  They were also a looking glass into the historical significance of modern culture, for example one of the amphitheaters was still in use as a bullfighting arena.  That continual use of the stadium provides a comparison between the bloodshed of ancient gladiator fights and the modern bloodshed of bullfighting. This gave me a better understanding of the importance of tradition within European culture and gave a rational resolution to the questionably violent displays . I also developed a deeper interest in the construction and form of each theater than on the seating and stage than I expected. It gave me a real perspective on the dramatic differences in historical context that is seen in Europe compared to the United States and the drastic differences between the American notion of historical, and the true age of what Europeans would deem ancient. Other buildings also gave context to the eras of design and how each building not only fits into the lineage of architecture but also how it fits into the landscape around it and the fabric of life that it accommodates or was designed to accommodate.

These changes are important to my academic and professional goals because they give me the ability to understand architecture in a deeper context.  Rather than simply gaining knowledge on buildings from a textbook or lecture, I have now gotten the chance to see and understand important works of architecture in person and further my understanding of the history, advancement, and real world applications of the field that I plan to study and gain a professional understanding in.  The changes due to the interactions I had will also help me professionally and academically as well as in my personal life. The interactions which will help me professionally and academically are mainly the ones which I had with professors and teaching assistants while on the trip.  Being able to have such direct contact with people who are far more knowledgeable than me led me to gaining bits and pieces of their knowledge and experience which I can now apply to my academic pursuits or carry with me into the professional world.  My interactions with people who live in Europe however were more significant to me personally because they helped me grow a deeper understanding of the different ways in which cultures live, work, and socialize.  While this could be helpful academically or professionally I believe that they mainly affect my personal understandings and goals of becoming a more whole, more well rounded person.  All of my experiences, good and bad, left an impact on me and regardless of where I chose to take my academic path, career, or personal life, I will carry them with me.

• Please provide a brief description of your STEP Signature Project. Write two or three sentences describing the main activities your STEP Signature Project entailed.

For my STEP project I joined the Japan: Places Elsewhere trip, a 16 day trip to six cities across Japan analyzing architecture and material culture. Our day-to-day routine consisted of guided tours of local castles and gardens, visits to museums and locations of interest, and free time for shopping, socializing, and exploring. 

• What about your understanding of yourself, your assumptions, or your view of the world changed/transformed while completing your STEP Signature Project? Write one or two paragraphs to describe the change or transformation that took place.

Before this trip, I had been fortunate enough to travel internationally. Family trips to the United Kingdom, France, and Iceland exposed me to cultures and lifestyles different from those in the US, as well as prepared me for the logistics of travel abroad. Japan, however,  took what I knew and flipped it on its head. I have never experienced a place so extremely modern yet culturally rich, so efficient yet tranquil. A place where unique fashion, technology, and architecture thrives. A place bustling with activity all day and all night. A place with cultural emphasis so vastly different from America that I often questioned if I was still on the same planet. 

Japan gave me a window into a society developed around both cultural preservation and modern advancement. I was shocked to enter a packed train and hear complete silence, to walk down the street without seeing a single scrap of litter, to enter a store or restaurant and instantly be treated respectfully. I was able to view a society focused on the success of its people as a whole, not as individuals. This focus is what allows Tokyo, the most populated city in the world, to have the lowest crime rate in the world. This focus is what creates fast and reliable public transit. This focus is what preserves the emphasis of respect within Japanese culture. This trip opened my eyes to not only the cultural differences between Japan and America, but the basis upon which both societies are built. 

I also took back with me a changed perspective on my personal goals. As a computer science major, the thought of studying architecture almost never crossed my mind. However, through conversations with other students, museum and location visits, and some of my own research I have gained a much greater appreciation for the field. Architecture masterfully combines artistic design with functionality in a way I rarely see in computer science. I believe it is important to always be learning new things and stepping outside of my comfort zone, and the trip provided this opportunity at every corner.

• What events, interactions, relationships, or activities during your STEP Signature Project led to the change/transformation that you discussed in #2, and how did those affect you? Write three or four paragraphs describing the key aspects of your experiences completing your STEP Signature Project that led to this change/transformation.

Our first night in Tokyo was one that will live with me forever. I had been dumped into a country I have never visited, with students I had never met, surrounded by a language and culture I barely understood. I ended up walking around Tokyo for nearly two hours with my trip roommate and his friends. As we walked, we passed bars, restaurants, and stores crammed into alleyways and side streets. We noticed locals dressed in everything from business casual to futuristic punk rock outfits to combinations of the two. We observed a city infrastructure built for people, not cars. Although overwhelming, we were instantly captivated by Shibuya’s unique aesthetic, one that promotes self-expression and encourages the public to explore every square foot of the district. 

On our first day in Kanazawa we were given some free time to explore the Higashi Chaya district, a neighborhood known for its historical architecture. As my friends and I walked through the narrow streets, we were stopped by a local woman tending to her plants. She asked us why we were visiting, what we were studying, and if we liked our experience so far. This happened to us several more times on the trip- a group of older men on the train, a shopkeeper, and a local in a bar. Even schoolchildren would wave and greet us with a “Hello!”. In Japanese culture foreigners are treated as houseguests, and I found myself feeling safe and respected no matter where we were. Of course, we had to return the favor by obeying signs such as “No Eating While Walking”, following correct courtesy while visiting temples and an onsen, and remaining quiet and respectful while using public transit. These exchanges helped illuminate the importance of respect within Japanese culture.

One of our days in Okayama was spent on Teshima Island, one of many islands off the coast of Japan. We were led up a large hill to one of the few restaurants on the island- and proceeded to buy out all of their food. We were then led in the direction of our next stop, the Teshima Art Museum. The museum, positioned on a hill overlooking both the ocean and nearby rice terraces, consisted of a freestanding concrete shell. We were instructed to remove our shoes and remain quiet while experiencing the museum, as well as refraining from any photos. As I entered the museum, I was immediately in awe of the scale of the structure. Surrounded by smooth concrete and absolute silence, we could view the outside environment through massive circular cutouts in the ceiling. Visitors created their own unique perspectives within the museum by sitting, standing, or laying down in random locations. I found myself changing spots every few minutes to see a new area of the museum. The museum is the pinnacle of abstract interactive art- each visitor creates their own unique experience, and will remember different parts of the exhibit. Further, the museum is a beautiful fusion of art and architecture. The building itself is an artistic expression, and further grew my appreciation for architecture as a medium. 

• Why is this change/transformation significant or valuable for your life? Write one or two paragraphs discussing why this change or development matters and/or relates to your academic, personal, and/or professional goals and future plans.

Something I’ve realized throughout my college career is the importance of being both culturally educated and having an open mindset towards change. Our society is becoming increasingly connected, which brings alongside it an increase in diversity. It is imperative to learn and understand that everyone comes from different backgrounds, and the impact that one’s upbringing can have on their lifestyle, ideas, and values. Exposing oneself to another culture creates a new level of understanding and further promotes a diverse way of thinking, whether this be in an academic or work environment. Further, becoming friends with so many architecture students has helped me realize yet another field I may have interest in in the future. I think it is important to always be striving for new knowledge- my future, especially as a college student, is unpredictable, and learning as much as I can about different subjects will help prepare me for whatever my career might throw at me. Further, I always appreciate hearing about people’s passions and interests, and think it is an important step in becoming closer friends. 

My STEP Signature Project involved studying abroad in Italy and taking an art class. During my time in Italy, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the rich cultural heritage and the vibrant art scene. As a Studio Art major, I wanted to use this experience as a means to expand my knowledge in art and enhance my overall artistic practice at the Siena Institute of Art whilst diving deep into cultural traditions, fine art, and magnificent architecture. The main activities I was involved in during my stay included attending art classes, visiting museums and galleries, exploring historical sites, and interacting with local artists and art enthusiasts.

During my time in Siena, Italy, I found myself captivated by the culture, the landscapes, and the art that surrounded me.  Every sight, sound, and experience left a mark on me, leading to a transformation in my creative practice. As I began my first project in class, I intended to reflect on my experience abroad—the excitement, the challenges, and personal growth it ensued. Symbolically, this artwork served as a testament to the rebirth I was undergoing during this transformative trip. It was an extraordinary leap into the unknown, venturing out on my own, bidding farewell to the people and circumstances that had caused me pain, and leaving behind the comfort of the familiar American culture that had shaped me thus far. This expedition was more than just a physical journey; it was an opportunity to embark on a profound quest of self-discovery, to nurture my mental well-being, expand my understanding of the world, forge meaningful relationships, and invigorate my artistic expression.

In the fertile soil of Italy’s artistic heritage, I cultivated my creativity and explored the boundless possibilities of self-expression. In a departure from traditional printmaking techniques, I harnessed the very essence of the Italian landscape by incorporating the soil I walked upon during my journey into my projects. As a printmaker, I was determined to make prints even though this particular institution did not have the tools I would normally use for the process. This lack of resources fostered opportunity for artistic growth as I was able to create work in a DIY manner leaving room for experimentation.It was during this process that I chanced upon the concept of body printing, and an idea sprouted within me—to create prints infused with the essence of my physical presence by walking on cloth and leaving behind imprints of my footsteps using the rich, earthy tones of Siena’s soil. My footprints not only suggested movement but also symbolized the pathways I took on my quest for self-discovery while immersed in a foreign land. I later worked on a second project where I performed a common yoga flow on top of the same wet Siena Soil as I wanted to experiment with the idea of ritual and why humans use rituals. For me, this ritual of yoga is about mental health as it calms me and gives me a sense of control as I perform repetitive movements and practice it each day.As I have mentioned, a goal of mine on this trip was to transform myself in many ways through my art and mental health. I used to do yoga all of the time and it had been so healing but due to big life changes I had stopped and I wanted this project to serve as an invitation to myself to start to do yoga again for my health. My last project was an experimentation with movement which you can see in the video Included below. This project was more of a starting point for something more refined that I want to create in the future. This trip and class allowed me to experiment so much with my work and the third project is a great example of this. 

The art classes I attended provided a nurturing environment where I could experiment with various mediums and techniques. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, I honed my technical skills while also delving into the depths of my imagination. Suzanne Silver, a professor in the department of art at Ohio State was a very influential person for me during this course. Her guidance and support aided my growth and I feel lucky to have worked alongside her. During her class, I discovered new techniques and fresh ideas and concepts to use in my art. 

Immersing myself in Italy’s vibrant art scene, I embarked on a transformative journey of exploration. Visiting iconic museums such as the Uffizi Gallery, I stood before masterpieces that had withstood the test of time, witnessing the power of art to transcend centuries and communicate across generations. I was amazed to see works I had learned of in class right in front of me and felt a deeper connection to art history. This experience was quite emotional for me as I felt connected to so many artists and I am so grateful for that. This gallery experience may be the most prized place I visited. 

Furthermore, my interactions with local artists stimulated my curiosity as an artist abroad. Engaging in discussions about their individual artistic choices and mediums and witnessing the innovative approaches to contemporary art was a wonderful experience. Learning from other artists has always been something I have valued deeply. 

This transformation is significant and valuable for my life on multiple levels. Academically, it has enriched my understanding of art history and provided me with a deeper appreciation for different artistic movements and styles. Being abroad has also broadened my cultural horizons and enhanced my ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. I also feel that the experience has inspired me in so many ways regarding my own art practice. I found myself writing down new ideas and concepts for future pieces in my journal while I was there as I was constantly inspired. 

In conclusion, my STEP Signature Project of studying abroad and taking an art class in Italy was a transformative experience that broadened my understanding of art, culture, and the power of creative expression. It allowed me to explore my own artistic abilities, connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and gain an even deeper appreciation for the universal language of art. This transformation holds immense value for my academic, personal, and professional growth, shaping my future goals and aspirations.

Project 1

Projects 1 and 2

Link to: Project 3

Had the opportunity to flip through and old book of prints which was so special to me since I’m a printmaker!

Image of Siena

Birth of Venus, Botticelli

My STEP Signature Project was an OSU faculty-led Education Abroad program titled New Zealand: Sustainable Tourism and Human Impacts on the Environment. Over the course of three weeks, our group of OSU students, faculty, and a local tour guide traveled to numerous locations across New Zealand’s South Island. Since tourism is a large sector of the nation’s economy, we visited popular tourist destinations throughout the program and investigated related ideas of sustainability through readings, coursework, and group discussions. We also learned a great deal about the native Māori culture embedded in the nation and how it helps guide sustainability of New Zealand’s natural capital. 

My STEP Signature Project redefined the way I see the world, enhanced my knowledge and skills as a student, and continued to broaden my knowledge and understanding of other cultures and backgrounds. I not only had my first experience flying and traveling abroad, but my three-week stay in New Zealand and familiarity with life in the US allowed me to see both successes and areas of improvement in each countries’ strategies for sustainability. I’m passionate about sustainability, and I was able to observe so many examples of ways that businesses and operations could be more sustainable that I never considered before. Also, the Māori culture woven throughout the nation was very eye-opening. I went into the program knowing very little about their culture, but I left with a much stronger understanding of it and how their values were seen in nearly all of our experiences during the program. 

Several experiences during my project led to these transformations. The very start of my program was met with many new experiences and some setbacks. I learned to navigate airports for the first time as I had my first experience flying. My first flight was canceled, so fellow students in the program and I exhibited flexibility as we coordinated with staff to figure out our late arrival. Being a tourist and student in an entirely new place for so long also allowed me to act and develop in different ways than life in Columbus or my hometown. The natural beauty throughout the nation and enjoyable experiences with new friends made the trip feel comfortable, almost like home. However, I had to consistently keep in mind my unfamiliarity with the places I traveled to and practice self-awareness in public spaces to stay safe and be respectful of others. 

The program’s combination of academic material with hands-on experiences was quite rigorous, so I quickly adapted the ways in which I managed my time and studies. We were often busy for most of the day, so I learned to fit self-paced readings and essays into free time while still being able to practice self-care and connect with peers. I learned new strategies for taking notes in the field and collaborated with others to prepare for quizzes. As a result, I was able to learn so much about New Zealand and connect it to what I know about the United States. I recall how many professionals in-country referenced the urgent need for environmental action, especially when it comes to supporting struggling native animals and plants by managing invasive ones. Ideas of sustainability extended to the tourism realm often, too, in areas like Milford Sound that are currently seeing controversy. Plans there seek to better control visitor numbers because of overcrowding and severe traffic congestion, but they risk major environmental changes and the transformation of a small town into more of a tourist hub. Our visit there was during the off-season for tourism, but the terminal for cruises still saw crowding. This experience sticks out in my mind as an example of the complexity of sustainable tourism – a main focus of the program. 

The first few days of the program revolved around indigenous Māori culture, which was a very beneficial foundation for the topics we covered over the following weeks. We participated in a powhiri, or welcome, on our third day and spent much of that day learning about history and culture. I could then see aspects of Māori values all throughout New Zealand. For instance, we visited the town of Kaikoura, a small town known for its seafood and whose name is a combination of Māori words – “kai” meaning food and “koura” meaning crayfish. Also, Māori culture holds a high respect for nature, seeing humans as belonging to nature rather than owning or controlling it. This comes into play strongly as conversations surrounding sustainability in New Zealand become more widespread. It was interesting to see these ideas woven into businesses and organizations throughout the nation; I feel like I haven’t seen a spotlight on cultural values or environmental consciousness so widespread in the United States. Granted, we are a much different country socioeconomically, but the ways in which sustainability were seen simply through balance and respect serve as an example for what we could explore for our own strategies.

This experience was incredibly valuable to my life as a student and my plans for a future career. I was able to learn hands-on and practice new ways of synthesizing information, things that I plan to use in my next two years at Ohio State. I appreciated learning about the environment and sustainability–topics I’m passionate about–in different disciplines such as physical sciences, economy, and social sciences. I’ve always been uncertain about what career path I want to take, but seeing how broadly I can contribute to sustainability makes me excited about my future. The emphasis on culture was also very important to me, as I strive to be more knowledgeable and inclusive as a leader on campus. And, as an individual, I’m always looking to grow my confidence and connect with more people. The program let me feel more comfortable traveling, more confident in handling independent life, and more experienced in managing my finances and time. I also made many new friends during the trip and greatly expanded my comfort zone. I’m very fortunate to have had this opportunity and am grateful that STEP helped make my project possible.

     My global education program was focused on studying architecture in Europe, specifically in cities throughout Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. We were tasked with researching buildings or sites, presenting them to our classmates, and improving our sketching through guided instruction and repetition.

     When I first joined STEP, I knew that I wanted to use the money to travel. This trip truly felt perfect for me. I dreamed of going to Europe for as long as I could remember. This trip not only gave me the chance to visit four countries, but allowed me to do so while pursuing studies for my major, architecture. I think my biggest take away is that I expected everything to be more black and white then I found it. I absolutely loved the trip and didn’t expect to struggle so much coming home. I feel like a piece of my heart was left in Europe. I also spent a month with so many incredible people. The circumstances forced us to get close fast and it’s still hard to be apart from them after feeling like they became my family.
     The biggest change that often plagued me throughout the trip was not feeling sure about my future. I got to visit so many incredible architectural sites throughout the trip, but it also forced me to think about if this is what I pictured my life to be. A month removed from the trip, I still don’t have a clear answer. I’ve looked into pursuing a second major in history or completely pivoting to a different major. I never expected the trip to have this impact on my life, and although I found my major difficult before, I never expected myself to not continue.

     Everyone on my trip was incredible from my classmates to my teachers and TA’s. They will all hold a special place in my heart forever. Before the trip, I struggled to become friends with people in my major. I have a very strong friend group outside of classmates and had issues developing new relationships as a result. This trip forced me to be around my classmates and develop new relationships. I didn’t know anyone on the trip before I came but I can walk away saying that I made some great friends.
     I also gained a new appreciation for all the teachers and TA’s on my trip. A few of them taught or assisted in classes I had previously but this trip allowed me to develop actual relationships with them. I appreciated my “History of Architecture” class and professor, who led the trip, so much more after seeing the buildings in person and having conversations with her about their significance. I built friendships and relationships with my teachers and TA’s that I never expected to have throughout college. They became some of my closest friends on the trip and gave me so much guidance and advice.
     I think a big reason I was forced to confront myself and my future was because of my classmates and teachers around me. Everyone had a passion for architecture, but some were not intending to pursue it by being architects. I had classmates with future plans to teach, go into construction, or pursue interior architecture after they finished their undergraduate programs. I now understand the extent of my options. My passion for architecture can translate somewhere outside of being an architect. I’ve looked into being an architecture historian, combining my passions of architecture and history, or possible careers in film, another passion of mine.

     The future is unclear for me. As someone who likes to plan, that is a very scary thought. The full impact that this trip had on my life is still yet to be seen. As shaky as everything feels now, I don’t regret it at all. The two things I know I came away with were some incredible new friends and an appreciation for traveling. At times it was really hard, but never in my life had I felt so independent and proud of myself. I felt like if I could travel without my family and survive in a foreign country, I could do anything. I’m incredibly grateful I had the opportunity to participate in this trip.

This trip changed a huge part of myself by exposing me to experiences I simply had never been introduced to before. I was uncomfortable in the most constructive and beneficial way one could be throughout the duration of this trip. I was challenged every day by hearing new languages, trying new foods, and experiencing every ounce of unfamiliar culture that I could. I went to visit family as well in Italy where I was truly embraced by my Italian relatives. I feel more connected to my family and extended culture. 

The pace of the trip was what really helped me to understand a group initiative to absorb as much information as possible. We challenged each other by having thoughtful conversations, giving insightful opinions, and providing diversity among the group. I found the travels to be culturally constructive, but being within the travel cohort of Ohio State students was also very constructive to who I am as a cooperative person. To make the most out of the trip, I had to become close with my peers, and I am extremely glad I did.  

There were plenty of events that led to my transformation over my summer program. I will say that an overarching theme to all my experiences that changed who I am was being uncomfortable. I was uncomfortable in situations where I had to navigate public transportation alone. I was especially uncomfortable in places where I had to navigate public transit in places where English was not the first language! However, this made me a more confident person and allowed me to trust my instincts.  

This summer I feel that I have gained confidence to be the person I have always wanted to be. I love expressing myself through fashion, but in high school I was a lot more hesitant to be myself and explore that passion of mine. When I got to college, I decided that I would try to be completely myself and declared a minor in Fashion and Retail studies. My STEP experience allowed me to go to Europe and express myself in a culture where fashion is celebrated, and individual appearance has a remarkably high standard. I enjoyed being in this environment and it allowed me to recognize my passion to express myself.  

STEP helped me to get to Europe and explore architectural design precedents, but it also allowed me to reconnect with family that I have not been able to visit prior. My family is Italian american, but my parent never had the financial means to go to Italy and see family. However, I was able to see my family in Perugia, and it helped me to reconnect with my culture. I feel that my time in Italy unlocked a new identity for me, one that I would love to continue exploring.  

Lastly, Europe gave me the chance to understand just how big the world is. It sounds cheesy, but I truthfullyfeel that up until my trip, I had not understood just how much there is to go explore, languages to be learned, foods to be tried, and cultures to observe. This trip sparked my love adventure and my love for design, all packaged into one. For that, I am profoundly grateful. 

This transformation is incredibly valuable to my life specifically because my future career in design will call for architectural precedent, and I will have studied them first-hand. When I become a designer one day, I will not only know the different typologies of the places I have seen, but I’ll also know the culture that bolsters those design ideas. To me, that is most valuable.  Personally, I hope to be a well-rounded person, open to all ideas. I am one step closer to that goal with the help of STEP!!

My STEP project allowed me to study abroad in various cities in the Netherlands, Germany, and France. I studied Western European Architecture, researched the history and design of the sites before hand, presented my research to my peers, participated in discussions regarding the architecture, and created sketches of the buildings we saw.

Through my STEP signature project, I felt that I had gained a more worldly view of the world, breaking down many of my preconceived notions of Western Europe. For example, I’ve always seen Frances as very monolithic in culture. However, upon visiting many of the various cities of France, I was able to gain insight onto how each and every city had it’s own atmosphere. The people were different in each city, creating a more wholistic representation of the country itself. Paris is very diverse, as it is a center of tourism and immigration. On the other hand, Carcassonne prides itself on its very rich history and uses language as a pillar of the city’s pride.

Throughout my STEP project, I have been forced and exposed to many different types of people and the histories of the cities. Much of history is found in the architecture of cities. I learned of the Netherland’s collectivist culture through intensive interviews with curatorial staff at various museums. This collectivist culture stems from the country’s geographical standpoint—it is located below sea level—as well as the bombings during World War II. The citizens of the city had to work together to overcome these obstacles, developing strong national pride and communal trust that culminates in its strong and trust-based public transportation system and friendliness of its citizens.

When traveling to these cities, I found myself picturing myself living there. Walking through the streets of Paris, I would stop into a local pastry shop to grab a quick breakfast before joining the group to sketch more buildings. I had many conversations with fellow travelers about their experiences in France and places beyond as well. I could see myself biking through the streets of Rotterdam and sitting in the local gardens in Amsterdam. By experiencing these places intimately, I allowed myself to experience these cities as if I was living in them. In the future, I can see myself living somewhere outside of the U.S.—perhaps in one of the cities i have visited.

I have also developed a greater appreciation for architecture and how it represents a large part of a city’s history. By sketching the buildings in each city, I could notice the differences between them. For example, many of the buildings that we sketched in the Netherlands were more contemporary, with strong geometric shapes and steel and glass construction. This style of architecture was largely a result of the World War II bombings that forced the cities to reconstruct the majority of their buildings, allowing for more contemporary styles to emerge. On the other hand, in Germany and France, many of the most impressionable buildings were historic buildings, buildings that had been there for hundreds of years. I was able to observe how romanesque and gothic elements were different and similar amongst various cities and how these distinct styles fostered strong religious relationships through construction.

This change was significant to my life as it allowed me to picture myself in somewhere outside of the U.S., expanding my horizons. In the future, I can see myself applying to grad schools internationally and participating in more education abroad experiences so that I may further my education and apply the knowledge I have gained to my personal and professional growth. This project also helped me develop a greater value for what I am learning, for seeing buildings that have actually been built is much more powerful that simply drawing them on paper. It has reinvigorated my motivation to study and research, for I now know the possibilities my future career my hold. I can also observe how certain landscape architecture and architecture affect its people—the successes and failures influencing my future designs.

For my step signature project, I took part in a study abroad program with The Ohio State School of Music. The program was centered around music making and culture in Brazil. While in the city of Salvador, my class had the opportunity to participate in workshops and group sessions including percussion, Jazz, and Samba. We also performed our own music at various schools and cities during the trip. While in country, we learned the history of popular styles of Brazilian music and how they developed throughout the years. Additionally, we had the opportunity to visit historical sites in Brazil and learn about the most prominent religions in the area. We then took a road trip to the city of Lençóis. During this time, we explored the beautiful nature points of Lençóis and learned a little bit more about culture and history in the area. To end the trip, we visited the city of Rio de Janeiro where we took tours, learned about the history of the city, and visited Christ the Redeemer

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity I had to join this program. I knew beforehand that this course would push me completely out of my comfort zone, and it did just that. As a person with little to no musical background, I found myself with a lot of anxiety surrounding performing, learning the music, and contributing to the flow of the music with the other performers. Accompanying these anxieties was the very real worry about being in a place that is so far from home and having to adjust to a new environment with different cultural norms than what I was used to. I am so happy that my anxieties turned out to be just anxieties. The other students embraced me with open arms end were so patient with me as I was learning how to participate, develop, and grow in music making.

I would describe myself as introverted, quiet, and shy at times. This is especially the case when meeting new people or in situations that I am not completely comfortable in. This was a huge hurdle that I had to get over when it came to living with a host family. I knew that living with a complete stranger would normally cause me a lot of stress, but the addition of a language barrier seemed unbearable before the trip. I’m so thankful that I was able to allow myself to be open during the program and develop a relationship with my host mother. I would say that this is the biggest area of growth that I have noticed while reflecting on the trip. I’m glad that we were able to live with Brazilian host families, as it provided a more authentic space for learning. It was interesting to learn about the Brazilian cultural norms surrounding food, work, and social/nightlife from the perspective of a person that was born and raised in the culture. Another thing that I found myself to be aware of is the reality of being a foreigner in a country. As a child of immigrants, I have always been aware of the difficulties of coming to a new country. Facing a language barrier, learning to follow new cultural expectations, and finding a place to belong all while in a country that is not familiar to you can be extremely challenging. But, for the first time, I was able to experience this firsthand. I think that having a new understanding of being a foreigner in a country has allowed me to be even more compassionate and empathetic of those facing the same challenge here in the United States. I hope that I can use this background as fuel to be helpful to others in their journey of building a second home in the US.

One experience that made a very memorable impression on me was exploring the many natural sites while in the country. I thoroughly enjoyed hiking to the mosquito waterfall while in Lençóis. While traveling, we got the opportunity to hear from Brazilian natives about the history and relevance of the waterfall. The waterfall gets its name from the tiny diamonds that are found in the area that resemble mosquitoes. After the hike and the history lesson, we got the opportunity as a class to swim in and enjoy the fresh waterfall. That experience is one of my core memories from the trip because it is unlike anything I have ever done in Ohio. Seeing the waterfall in person after learning about its history allowed me to appreciate it in a very unique way. Similarly, hiking Lapa Doce cave with the tour guide was an unforgettable experience. He was very knowledgeable about the area and the history of the cave, and his excitement for the topic made the hike even more enjoyable. I am curious about the government’s involvement in areas like the mosquito waterfall and Lapa Doce.

In addition to exploring Brazil’s nature, another highlight of the course for me was seeing performances by the school kids. I can truly say that music culture in Brazil is much different than what I have experienced at home! While watching the performances, I noticed that many of the students were very young, but they were already so talented. I can tell that many of the children genuinely enjoy making music with their friends and experimenting with their instruments and their sounds. Hearing the orchestra at Neojiba was an eye-opening experience. The performers and the conductor were so open and willing to share their music with us. I could tell that it wasn’t just another performance for them. They were thoroughly enjoying every piece that they played for us. 

In the US many view music making, especially in formal groups like orchestras, as needing to be very uniform and flawless in every aspect. The process of creating music as a group can be difficult because conductors and teachers are focused on making perfection out of individual details. From what I have observed in Brazil, music making is much more informal and enjoyable. This informality allows for the musicians to draw upon their natural music making abilities and their love for the craft. This, in turn, creates a product that is much more seamless and natural, because the process of creating it is just that. Seeing the way that children at such a young age are able to produce such sophisticated and fun pieces of music shows that their natural musical talents were fostered and encouraged instead of dampened by the expectation of perfection. 

After graduation, I plan to attend nursing school and continue my career in healthcare. When working in healthcare, especially in the US, you’ll interact with patients and colleagues from many different cultural and religious backgrounds. It’s essential to be culturally educated in this situation. Studying abroad provides many opportunities to gain this education. At the nursing home where I currently work, I’ve noticed that residents feel more comfortable with nurses and aides who recognize their cultural identities by making an effort to learn their language and important holidays. In healthcare, having involvement like study abroad will allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level and provide the care they need. This trip was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity, and the best month of my life so far! 

My STEP Project was participating in the Knowlton School of Architecture’s European Architecture Studies program. We traveled through four countries and numerous cities to study impactful works of architecture and their societal and urban impact. We were tasked with researching buildings, presenting them, and sketching exercises as we traveled our program.

I took an interest in this program as I had a desire to deepen my understanding of architecture. Additionally, I sought to broaden my perspective and understanding of the world. A huge blessing I’ve experienced at Ohio State is my exposure to diversity. I came from an area that didn’t have a large diversity in culture, race, sexuality, gender, or opinions. I wanted to be a part of a community that valued and sought after diversity, and Ohio State has brought me that. My ability to participate in this program allowed me to take this exposure further. I was able to learn about other cultures by fully immersing myself and living in them for a month. Being able to form an understanding of how many backgrounds people come from is important to me, and I am a strong believer in doing my best to take all outlooks on life into account. Studying abroad allowed me to further pursue this goal of mine and learn more about cultures I wasn’t educated on previously. 

My passion for architecture has only deepened with the completion of this program. While I took a liking to my architecture history class sophomore year, this program helped me explore and appreciate the historical portion of my education further. I knew that I deeply enjoyed the design aspect of my major, but this program taught me the importance that history plays in my major as well. I didn’t have near the appreciation for architectural history that I have now. This taught me that my interest in my major was more multifaceted than I thought, and didn’t simply come down to enjoying the process of designing architecture.

In terms of exploring perspective and understanding, the interactions I had with locals in all countries helped broaden my personal perspective of the world. Some things were as simple as learning greetings and thank yous in various languages, but making the effort in these situations made all the difference. This effort went a long way, and I quickly found that I was greeted with more kindness when I tried to respect and navigate my way through situations as locals would. Towards the beginning of the program, I was worried that I would offend people by trying to “blend in” or that I would Americanize their words in ways that were unintentionally rude. However, as time went on and I observed people, trying to learn from them, I found that trying was well received. I think this is a simple way of furthering the idea that trying to learn from and educate yourself about others who live differently from you is important. This is encouraging to me personally, as I know that I’m not always educated in what I may speak about, but that my effort to understand and learn is important and one I should continue.

The sketching activities that we completed throughout the trip helped me grow a greater love for architecture itself. These exercises forced me to sit down and really take in the buildings we were observing. I feel as though this activity far exceeded picture-taking. I noticed the small details, the proportions, and how the structure fits into the surrounding space. I had a greater appreciation for the buildings that I sketched than those that I simply photographed, which helped deepen my passion for architecture as a whole. 

Finally, my relationships with my instrctuors and TA’s helped with both of these things. I speak a lot of broadening my perspective culturally, but my instructors helped me view architecture from an entirely new lens. They shifted my perspective on its history and its societal impact. Not only that, but they revealed an even greater depth of information when they spoke of buildings. Seeing them, only a handful of years older, speak with such intelligence and vast knowledge helped me realize that I am on that path myself. I know that I am passionate about architecture, but there is still a fear that I may not be able to understand it with such depth. Seeing my TA’s have the same passion as me and a deeper level of understanding helped me feel more confident in my journey as a student.

This experience has helped me grow in numerous ways and allowed for a deeper understanding of and connection with my education. I know the ways I grew and was shaped during this program will help me succeed further down the road. I have an understanding of what is important to me and my future; this will help now, when I try to find a job post-grad, and when I’m introduced to others different than myself. I can confidently say that this experience was life-changing, and I’m so grateful that I’ve had the ability to partake in it.

This past month I went on an amazing adventure across the globe to New Zealand to study sustainable tourism. The program was offered by the department of environment and natural resources.  The main focus of the trip was to learn about human impacts on the environment and sustainable practices that can be implemented to mitigate these impacts.

The three and a half week adventure started at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Islands and ends at the very bottom of the country. Along the way I was able to witness the awe inspiring natural beauty that NZ has to offer. I was also engaged in a relatively relatively heavy course load while I was abroad.

Over the course of the trip I learned a lot about myself. First of all I was very proud of myself for even taking on this challenge in the first place. Gong on a trip across the planet with a group of students you have never met before can be very daunting, but i stepped up to the plate and I never looked back. I learned how to get along with and work with people in a very fast paced environment. The course load was fairly heavy, so there was a bit of a learning curve for how to approach all of my assignments. I adapted and came through. I became very good friends with a few of my classmates and I hope to maintain those connections for the rest of my college career and life.

I think the fast paced environment really contributed to fast bonding. The itinerary was absolutely loaded with fun activities. We were always on the move. We were always going from one activity to the next. We were constantly creating new memories that I will fondly look back upon for the rest of my life. From living accommodations to bus rides, we were always with one another enjoying this once in a life time experience.

Another way this trip has altered my perspective was by learning about the native Maori culture of NZ. They are truly amazing people who are completely in touch wit the environment that surrounds them, which I found very inspiring. I was  to learn about their history and their way of life, which I gave tried to incorporate into my life back in the states. In general I feel like I am able to connect with the world that surrounds me better due to my Maori experience.

We spend so much time enjoying the natural beauty  of New Zealand, it would be hard not to feel inspired by nature. We went on countless hikes that were simply breathtaking. We hiked mountains, cruised beneath waterfalls, and toured around some of NZ most beautiful forests. It was almost like i was in a dreamland half of the time. I saw so many stunning views that I almost felt desensitized to seeing unbelievable landscapes.

My experience in NZ was indeed life changing and I obtained a lot of valuable information pertaining to my major. During my trip we visited a lot what can be described as “sustainable businesses” which is the focus of my major. It was important for me to see concepts I have learned about in class being actually implemented into real life business. I hope to carry some of my experiences from NZ into my professional career

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