Sophie Bernheisel

My “Global Explorer” moment

In my junior year, I boarded a plane to Southern France to study abroad in a program where no other students from my school attended. I arrived in France knowing absolutely no one and I departed with a close group of friends from all over the world. We traveled all through Europe together and everyone shared their culture through language, music, and always food! While I certainly studied, I considered the most critical part of my education to be the cultural. 

Advice for students thinking about coming to AUP or going abroad for college

Embrace normality! Since you'll have ability to study abroad for years (not just one semester), you can really take your time. You will have the chance to live in one of the most vibrant cities in the world and experience a ton of excitement. But you will also get to experience la vie quotidienne, or everyday life. So seize all the big moments, but don't forget to let yourself breathe and enjoy the quiet moments as well.

Favorite day trip from Paris

For lovers of art and nature alike, a visit to Giverny is a must. See for yourself the garden's that inspire some of Monet's most beautiful works and perhaps they will inspire your own creativity!