Lamb, Taryn

Taryn Lamb

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
The Carolina Global Launch program was presented to me while filling out my UNC Common App. As a senior in high school eager to begin school, I didn’t realistically foresee it being my future at the time. Little did I know it would become the most enriching and transformative experience of my life thus far. 

What did you learn about yourself?
It seemed I had strived for my dream college experience my entire life. Even senior year me would have been shocked if I told her she would start college across the globe in a foreign country with no dorms, dining halls, sororities, or football games. All of these things that I thought I had worked hard for and wanted were challenged by certain doors closing and me feeling called to UNC. In hindsight, I owe so much of my current contentment, spontaneity, and joy to that possibility-turned the decision. While what I originally desired would have been great, I learned plans are only offset by greater things. When doors close in my life now, I am excited at the possibility for unexpected outcomes. My taste in friends has grown into a much more diverse group of people who push me rather than just relate to me, and the doors I see in my future have multiplied in ways I never imagined. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
I was grateful to be placed with an incredible host family during my time abroad. Per the Spanish culture, our “sobremesa” time holds the most special place in my heart from my time in Spain. We would sit and talk about everything under the sun for so long that by the time we were done, we would be approaching our next meal. My Spanish was able to approve so much, and their life stories were invaluable. We still talk to this day, and I can confidently say just knowing them has made me a better person. 

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
As cheesy as it sounds, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. No matter the challenges you face during your time abroad, and oftentimes because of them, you will return feeling like you can take on anything. Embrace the unknown and be present in every moment. Your favorite memories and stories will often stem from the unplanned moments. Maintain an open mind, don't compare a thing, and allow the experience to be uniquely yours.

How do you identify?
Student with a disability

Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
A lot of my pain and symptoms actually begun during my study abroad experience. While scary, I was so grateful to be going through this with my newfound zeal for life and perspective that study abroad gave me. 

Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
Going abroad showed me that the joy in life is not the destination but the journey. Receiving a diagnosis was extremely difficult, but my newfound resilience is thanks to what study abroad taught me about life and allows me to live every day to the fullest. 

Memories