Where in the World is Miami Wednesday: Amsterdam
By Nicole Richards
In this week's, Where in the World is Miami Wednesday, we meet Kate, a senior psychology and individualized studies major studying abroad in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Kate is studying masculinities with the School for International Training (SIT)'s International Perspectives on Sexuality and Gender Program. At Miami, Kate is involved with Stage Left, Undergraduate Research, and SOULs.
Why did you choose this program?
I really like Amsterdam, and I was excited by the opportunity to have a two-week excursion to Morocco! I also like that for the last few weeks of the program, we have the option to conduct our own independent research or to network with a Dutch organization in the city.
Coolest places you have visited?
When I first arrived, we stayed in the Heemskerk, and the hostel was an old castle, which was really cool. Our trip to Morocco was also amazing, where we visited five different cities in the country.
What is your favorite part about your program?
Definitely being able to conduct my own research in Amsterdam! The flexibility and freedom leaves a lot of room for exploring and immersing myself in the culture. I also eat a lot more bread here than I ever have before, which I'm not mad about.
How has the study abroad experience changed you so far?
I have absolutely experienced some growth since I arrived. I think the main thing is that the Dutch are incredibly direct and blunt, which can lead to people that are not Dutch feeling uncomfortable or hurt. While this is a minor aspect of culture, it reminds me to have empathy and perspective for smaller cultural differences that might usually go unnoticed. I've also become a little more direct myself, which is sometimes much needed!
Catch us next week as we continue to travel around the world to feature the amazing opportunities that Miami students are taking and the experiences our alumni have had since graduating!
Would you or someone you know want to be featured in a future Where in the World is Miami Wednesday story?