From May 17–28, I studied abroad in the Netherlands and Belgium. During this time, I got to learn about how the European Union operates and visit European Union institutions. It was great to see just how different the European Union is from the United States government. In addition to our studies, I enjoyed visiting the town of Ghent, where my friend and I took a boat trip through the city.

We also visited Amsterdam and enjoyed experiencing the unique culture it had to offer. When reflecting on my time abroad, I realized just how much we sometimes take for granted things we consider to be “normal.” For example, we visited Europe during a record heat wave. Europe lacks air conditioning, and it was an adjustment to have to find alternative ways to cool down. But, with perseverance, we found ways to make the best of it and enjoyed our time abroad.

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Learn more about this blogger’s study abroad program: Policies and Institutions of the European Union