Hello! My name is Gigi deBourbon, and I’m incredibly excited to be traveling to Europe this summer. I’m 18, and a Junior Biology major/History Minor here at OSU. Although Biology and World War II seem to be worlds apart, I hope to attend medical school and eventually use what I’ve learned through history and my travels to better understand and communicate with the people I’ll encounter.
I love traveling, taking photos, and making memories. This isn’t my first time overseas, but I have an inkling that it will likely be my favorite trip. I will continue exploring with some of my friends from the trip for a while after our study abroad concludes.
As far as a personal connection to the war, my great-grandmother emigrated from Bristol after marrying her GI American husband (of Polish descent.) I grew up listening to her retelling stories of the blackouts, air raids, and her nights out dancing with American soldiers stationed in Britain! My great-grandfather fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and although I was never able to meet him, it will be so special to me to revisit these memories of the war from their youth.
History has remained a curious interest throughout my life, and I’m grateful for this chance in my academic career to learn about and experience so much of WWII firsthand. What I find so incredibly special about this program is how full my knowledge of the war has become. The classes I’ve taken in preparation for this trip have given me so much more subtext for the war, which I believe will make my experience immensely more fulfilling. I’m glad for the better understanding of circumstances and culture because I know I’ll be able to appreciate what I’m seeing so much more than I would have on a simple vacation.
Professor Steigerwald, Professor Davidson, and Dr.Guilmartin– thank you for all you have done in preparing me for this– I can’t wait to start our travels in London!
Best,
GGDB