Studying abroad the second time around!

Watching Rafa Nadal at the French Open during my study abroad trip in 2007.

One of my best experiences during undergrad was studying abroad in Spain. Although it was a short two month stint it made a huge impact on my life. I got to experience another culture, become proficient in another language, get a glimpse into how big the world is and really reflect on what is important to me. I made a lifelong best friend during my travels and became more independent. When I heard about the opportunity to study abroad in graduate school, a rare chance, I knew it was a no brainer. I haven’t gone on a big trip since before I started graduate school so I am very excited to travel again. Plus it is for school and my career; what an incredible opportunity to further my transportation knowledge AND travel to Europe!

Special markings at Bob Hope airport in Burbank, CA

I’ve always gawked and ogled at transportation design in other cities and countries, forcing my travel partners to stop so I can take a picture of a funky sign, innovative urban design I’ve only read about or “interesting” driver behavior. I’m looking forward to spending time with my classmates who will be enthused to nerd out on transportation things with me.

 I studied civil engineering and Spanish at the University of Portland and will be completing my Masters at Portland State in August 2015. I have been working the public sector in traffic safety/analysis for 6 years and started graduate school about three years ago. I took most of my graduate electives in the urban planning school because I really believe in a close collaboration between engineers and planners. One of my goals during graduate school was to learn more about what planners do and how they impact the transportation industry. Obtaining my Master’s degree has opened my mind to the vast facets of transportation. I used to only think about how to fix an intersection but now I think about planning, policy, all modes of transportation, equity, accessibility, business impacts and mobility in my day to day tasks. This is allowed me to work better with other technical colleagues. This broad-minded education allows me to gain a “big picture” understanding of the work I’m doing and how it impacts transportation as a whole system.  

A Dutch stroopwafel. Credit: www.worldofcandies.com

My goal for this study abroad program is to further my knowledge regarding sustainable transportation and the importance for bicycle and pedestrian systems. During the trip I intend to be mindful of how what I’m learning can be applied to my work here in Portland. I also would like to journal/blog my experiences so that I don’t forget everything I’m learning. I plan to take full advantage of my time there by immersing myself in the culture and lifestyle. I want to learn and practice Dutch, bicycle a lot, eat stroopwafel and try a pickled herring!

At 2015 Commencement with my husband Ian.