Definitely study abroad if you’re interested! The winter, spring, and summer break options are really feasible and you can learn a lot in such a short period of time! I highly recommend!
Name: Uche Onwubalili (Cohort 6)
Major: Civil and Environmental Engineering
Give a brief description of the experience.
This past spring break, I visited Turin & Milan, Italy for my class ENCE405: Sustainability, Thermal Comfort & Urban Heat Islands. I was able to explore sustainability concepts in the classroom and see them applied in a real urban environment.
What was the most impactful part of the experience?
I enjoyed getting to know a new environment and culture while meeting new people. I was able to take what I’ve learned and apply it to my studies and projects.
What surprised you?
I was surprised by the level of preservation in Italian architecture. Italians have been able to preserve and even renew buildings that are over 100 years old.
Did you make any personal and/or professional connections with peers?
Yes, I enjoyed getting to know my peers that I traveled with. Some of them were mechanical and bioengineers and it was nice getting to learn their own experiences.
What were your major takeaways? What did you learn?
I learned that the combination of urbanization and climate change can affect our quality of life without proper preparation and safeguards. I learned that it’s our responsibility as engineers to find solutions and develop sustainable architecture that fits these changes.
How have your career or academic goals changed or evolved as a result of this experience?
This experience taught me that I have many avenues in the environmental engineering field. It also helped reinforce my choice to pursue the environmental track.
What is one piece of advice you would give to another Clark Scholar about engaging in this experience and/or pursuing an experience like this?
Definitely do study abroad if you’re interested! The spring, winter and summer break option is really feasible and you can learn a lot in that period of time!
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