Connecting the Pack

Xin Yang talks to us about his first ever travel experience to study in France. We explore his journey to France, the lessons learned, and his later transition to the US. Yang shares with us some of the cultural shocks he experienced in addition in addition the growth that comes with spending many years abroad.

In this episode of connecting the pack, I speak to 2 French students who are currently pursuing an exchange year at NC State university. Romane Guibert and Lenah Simon have studied in France together and went on an exchange opportunity to South Africa and then decided to spend their senior year in Raleigh. We discuss some of the experiences they’ve had in south Africa, whether it be segregation, power cuts, or even Safari trips in addition to the some of the lessons they learned from their journeys abroad.

This episode explores the story of Goga Katalandze, a young man from Georgia (the country). Goga takes us through his life in occupied territories and living through some interesting moments in a country that was established after the fall of the Soviet Union. We explore themes related to language, identity, cultural ambiguities, and more.

This episode explores the story of Anet Bucilova, a student from the Czech Republic who decided to pursue a 4-year degree in the US. Anet shares with us the story behind her decision to pursue a degree in the US and her story of being a cheerleader. Throughout the episode, we learn more about the education system in the Czech republic, the difference between life in the US and Prague, in addition to some lessons learned.

Miroslava Colan, a Venezuelan student at North Carolina State University, shares with us the gripping story of the risks she had taken in becoming an active political figure. She talks about how her opposition started, how she navigated a difficult environment, and how she ended up leaving Venezuela in pursuit of a different life. Be aware that some instances might be sensitive to some people.