January 2nd, my first day in Philly… As mentioned in my previous post, I arrived in the U.S. on December 14th and spent most of my time in Washington D.C. That time helped me build a stronger foundation for my stay in Philadelphia—I learned the basics. Since I had already opened a bank account, familiarized … Read more
By Grace Graham, USAC Valencia, Spain, Summer Session I&II Studying abroad is a thrilling adventure. It can also be a source of anxiety, especially for those who feel different, out of place, or vulnerable. As a Black, plus-sized student, there were several instances where I didn’t blend into the crowd of Valencia, Spain. It was … Read more
Trust is everything. It shapes how people see you, how they interact with you, and whether they want to work with you or build a relationship with you. But here’s the tricky part—sometimes, you could be sending the wrong signals without even realizing it. Little habits, things you do without thinking, might be making you … Read more
Having a strong online presence isn’t just about posting regularly or gaining followers. It’s about creating real value—something that makes people stop, pay attention, and trust what you have to say. The people who do this well aren’t just lucky. They follow certain habits that help them stand out in a noisy digital world. They … Read more
Silence is underrated—especially at work. We often feel pressure to speak up, share our opinions, or fill awkward pauses. But sometimes, saying nothing is actually the smartest move. Psychology tells us that staying silent in certain situations can help us maintain professionalism, build stronger relationships, and avoid unnecessary conflict. Knowing when to hold back can … Read more
For years, I wondered why my friendships never seemed to reach that deep, effortless level I saw others enjoy. I had plenty of acquaintances, colleagues who liked me well enough, and friends to grab dinner with—but when it came to truly close connections, something was missing. I told myself it was just bad luck. Maybe … Read more
For all the foodies out there, Borough Market is the ultimate spot to explore cuisines from around the world. After visiting for the first time and feeling a bit overwhelmed, I can confidently say it’s worth every pound. To help you make the most of your visit and successfully taste a little bit of everything, … Read more
Returning home after studying abroad is an emotional experience. After months of living in a new country surrounded by different cultures and experiences, coming back can feel like stepping into a familiar world that’s subtly changed—or maybe, you’ve changed. Spain became a second home for me, with memories of exploring Madrid’s Prado Museum, Toledo’s historic … Read more