It’s absolutely awesome how learning happens. For me, I learn best in small groups, and even better when I’m out of a traditional classroom. Here I don’t officially fall under the category of “student,” but it has been amazing to watch our abroaders learn while 
also continuing to learn myself. We talk about what it means to be a “global citizen,” and it would seem to me that one of the best ways to embody that would be to constantly be growing, learning, striving for more. Our classrooms here in Slovenia change by the day while the topics cover (but are definitely not limited to!) the Slovene language, world literature, culture and history of the area (huge topic!), and even salsa dancing.
For me, attempting to learn the Slovene language is like trying to learn how to drive an 18-wheeler having never 
even ridden a bike. Having said that, our language class has been at the top of my list of favorite activities. Our teachers are incredible and, somehow, as if through magic, I’m actually learning! My little class of five with Anja as our teacher impresses me every time we meet.
The classroom with the Slovenian and Croatian professors and foreign students of the same age adds a different element. The 
lights are off and windows are open as the A/C does not seem to be used much in university classrooms. The local students seem as trepidatious and unsure of us as our students are of them–yet when grouped together, the talking becomes deafening with sharing of thoughts, ideas, similarities, and laughter. A true joy emanates from the professors when they see the human connection being made.
The Slovene Writers’ Association provided an small peek into what their group is about as well as the world of translation as a 
whole but also into the niche world of Slovene translation. With references to translation of TV shows, Harry Potter, John Grisham and, of all challenges, Dr. Seuss, we ventured off to get a better look for ourselves at the biggest book store in Ljubljana. What we all could agree on was how wonderful it would be to be able to speak another language so completely.
Back in the comforts of a hotel room, a café, or a park with just us, we hold small-sided discussions and debrief about articles/short stories and/or places
and people we’ve seen. Talking about appreciating what we’re doing, who we’re talking to, and journaling about it all will aid in ensuring that it sticks with us long past our return to the States.
The culture and history element has been by far my favorite. Bundling up for a cold cave, putting on a bathing suit to test out the Adriatic Sea, envisioning storming castles and standing atop Roman ruins seem to be the favorite way to learn. Our guides have even included actors dressing up as characters to explain stories or important points. Sometimes their English has been good enough to make
American cultural references to further explain something. With the city and personal interactions as our greatest teachers of all, it has been a delight to watch the students become more and more comfortable with being uncomfortable and with that, become truly comfortable. Buying cherries at the Saturday morning market and figuring out the milk dispenser in Ljubljana, having to speak with people in Croatia who don’t speak any English (while we speak no Croatian), or simply trying new foods without hesitation, these all add to the wonderfulness that traveling has to offer.
Experiential learning provides the intangibles that a classroom simply talks about. It is the picture to the words. And to watch as the students experience these firsts is like nothing else. I’m so grateful to be continuing my own education while also witnessing theirs.
Follow their example: step outside to learn.
~gervais