A cold and rainy morning did not keep students from enjoying hot coffee and homemade delights at the Cafe Du Monde, hosted by the Division of International Programs. This particular event enabled both international and study abroad students to share their experiences with TAMIU. An endless array of photographs, great food, and smooth music lined the Bullock Hall corridor.
Students were able to gather around cafe style tables to enjoy interesting conversations of their traveling experiences while savoring different pastries. International students like Jan Zimmermann, shared special delicacies found in their countries. Jan’s contribution to the event was his German inspired Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte or Black Forest Cake. This carefully crafted cake was everyone’s delight as it quickly disappeared from the tables.
Jan explained that what made the Black Forest Cake so interesting and close to home was the fact that it included a cherry brandy. An excited Jan carefully displayed his cake to resemble a small mountain of cocoa, cherries and whipped cream. Other treats displayed at the Café Du Monde included dumplings, cinnamon sticks, various cakes and even Nutella spread over baguettes.
Students from the Study Abroad program also displayed photographs that helped bring life onto the scene where they visited different countries.Alyson Martinez, who recently studied in Spain over the summer, explained that traveling abroad was “an out of body experience.” She embarked on a journey to Spain where she shared an apartment with seven other roommates, attended the opera, witnessed a traditional bullfight, and swayed with the invigorating flamenco music. “We tried to do as many cultural activities as we could,” explained Alyson.
As exciting as studying in Spain was, Alyson explained that living in another country was not easy. After living with her parents, Alyson found that independence definitely came with its difficulties. “I was not used to being on my own,” she explained. The simple everyday tasks of washing clothes and waking up on time proved to be the hardest. Alyson stated that the “little things are the biggest challenges” when living alone.
However, despite traveling woes, studying abroad proves to be a great experience for students all over the world. Just as TAMIU is happy to welcome international students, other universities are happy to do the same. Cafe Du Monde was a success and provided TAMIU with a fresh insight into other countries that encourages students to consider studying abroad. Adventures lie in every corner and it is up to the students to uncover them and explore the possibilities.
For more information on studying abroad, please visit the Office of International Education, email studyabroad@tamiu.edu.