Christine Nims

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Location: Istanbul, Turkey

Time Abroad: Fall 2006

Major: International Studies

In the past, the opportunity to travel with my family provided me with many amazing and challenging experiences. In the process of seeing new places and meeting new people, traveling forces an individual to face their prejudices and narrow viewpoints. Studying abroad with the Cherrington Global Scholars program offered not only the benefits of travel, but also the chance to actually live in a foreign country. Aware of the impact that studying abroad would have on my self identity and my life perspective, I decided to take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study in a foreign country.

As I had traveled through Western Europe during high school, I wanted to go somewhere exotic and unique. While I thought about Eastern European countries, like Hungary and the Czech Republic, I remembered my visit to Turkey and how its beauty rivaled even the natural splendor of Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Although I knew little about the current situation of Turkey, I thought it would be a good place to challenge and refresh my personal opinions. At the crossroads of modernity and tradition, Turkish society incorporates the progress of technology and modern city life with the traditional elements of Islam. Thinking about living in Turkey, I was very excited to observe the blending of Muslim life with the influences of Western ideology.

Students considering the Cherrington Global Scholars program should really appreciate the opportunity they receive from the University of Denver. I advise them to take advantage of every possible experience while they are abroad. Although four months appears to be a long stretch, the time flies by and upon returning to college life in Denver, you wish that you saw more and pushed yourself more. My final piece of advice is to forget the boundaries of your personal sphere and go someplace that will be difficult to integrate with your current lifestyle and perception. Although it is challenging, you will benefit even more from the learning experience in a distinct country.