What is your hometown?
Upper Arlington, Ohio
What is your major(s)/minor(s)?
Major in Educational Studies and Major in Philosophy
At this point in your life, what is important/meaningful to you?
The most important thing in life right now is to create supportive and influential relationships and connections with others. This also includes taking time to prioritize myself and my hobbies like softball, yoga, cooking and being with loved ones.
What most intrigues and excites you about the Aotearoa/New Zealand study abroad?
I’m so excited to be immersed in such a special culture that’s filled with unique beauty. I’m interested to learn more about the culture’s history and how it influences their ethics, morals, and values. I’m excited to grow new and past relationships both from people in New Zealand and people at Principia.
What is the most meaningful idea you’ve discovered or learned about Aotearoa/New Zealand so far?
I love how much they acknowledge and cherish their culture. I appreciate how mindful and intentional the Māori people are with the relationships they create. I also admire how peaceful, mindful, and spiritual the Māori people are. I hope to bring some of these practices back with me.
For me, the Aotearoa/New Zealand abroad is an opportunity to … fully immerse myself in another country and culture and see how it differs from my own. I get to challenge and question who I am and why I believe what I believe. Most importantly, I get the opportunity to create new and long-lasting connections, relationships, and memories that will have a lasting impact on who I am and who I will be!