Madi Marks
About My Study Abroad Program
Major/Minor: Music Education Major
Program: UNC Honors Burch Music Program
Location: London and Florence Italy
Email: marksmr@ad.unc.edu
Term: Fall 2022
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
Studying abroad is something that my clarinet teacher always started to push right from when I entered college-- Professor Don Oehler. He is the faculty head of the Burch Music program. I just couldn't believe it would be possible to do what I love and do it across the world. When the opportunity arose, I immediately took advantage of it and I am extremely glad I did.
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that I am obsessed with travel. Travel always is something that felt like a chore growing up, but study abroad showed me that I am much more capable at planning and "adulting" than I thought I could ever be. I am already in the process of planning trips back abroad once I save some money up to travel and explore more.
What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
Well there are many, but one of the best feelings was the plane taking off to go to London. I had put so much work and time into making sure my trip could happen and it had gotten postponed two semesters because of COVID. So the moment the plane left the ground and I was on my way, I felt such an excitement and sense of relief. Another huge moment, was seeing the Eiffel Tower for the first time. There is this concept called "Paris Syndrome" where something like the Eiffel Tower is not actually as impressive as you expected it to be. For me, when I saw it, I stood in pure awe. Someone was blowing bubbles near by, someone else was playing the accordion, and I was standing right by the Louvre. It was surreal.
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
My main tip would be: you have resources available to you at all times. Sometimes they are just a little hard to find. Traveling with someone will also help comfort you in your uncertainties.
Memories
