Hannah Steketee
Europe
Spring 2016
Major: Political Science
Minors: Environmental Science and Leadership
Hometown: Morgantown, W.Va.
Other activities: Women’s Soccer, Student Government Association, Sigma Kappa Sorority, Students for Environmental Science, Marietta College Outdoor Adventure Club.
How did you choose the location of your Education Abroad experience?
I was taking Spanish, so I wanted to study somewhere that spoke Spanish. I was debating between South/Central America or Europe. I ended up choosing Europe so that I could travel around Europe and see places I always wanted to see.
How has your time in another country impacted your view of the world and your future goals?
I loved living abroad. It's hard sometimes but it is so much fun. I love it here. I would enjoy going back or to another country and maybe help with their environmental policies or projects.
What was your best/worst meal while abroad?
The worst meal I had was actually in Barcelona. I went out for lunch with a friend, and ordered pulpos. Generally, we can puzzle out menus, or we just order and hope for the best and usually it turns out OK. This time, however, pulpos turned out to be bite-sized baby octopus. I couldn't eat it. All of the food in Paris was amazing, particularly a little bistro near where we were staying. However, I think the best meal I've had I got for €5 in Venice, which is dirt cheap for that city. I ordered a box of fresh pasta with black cuttlefish sauce. It was so good!
If you ever visit your host country again, what will be on your list of things to do?
I think stopping and getting food. It's one of my favorite things to do in any new country. I would get tapas, especially patatas bravas, croquettes, Spanish omelet, and pan con tomate. And probably paella.
What advice can you give fellow students who are considering the Education Abroad program?
Do it. Definitely do it. I always wanted to go abroad, but I never thought that I was actually do it until I got on that plane. It's been the best semester of my life. I've met amazing people, got the chance to do amazing things (from ice skating in Switzerland to taking a water taxi in Venice), and I've had the best experiences. There really isn't a downside to studying abroad.