As my time in Porto has ended, I have spent a great deal of time reflecting on the connections I have made. The people and places have all left a unique impression on me that I know I will take it back with me to my home.
I think back on the talented students I met during the European Innovation Academy, and I note how their varying skills and strong work ethics impacted me, challenging me to be the best version of myself. Leading my group throughout the EIA program really demonstrated the importance of communication with my peers no matter our differences. I do believe that as I prepare to return to the US that how I communicate with others even daily will change thanks to the new perspective that this program has given me.
I also think back on the locals in Porto that I met also impacted me outside of the classroom. I mentioned briefly in my previous blog post about encountering the Leica Gallery in Porto. With my antiquated Leica in hand, I spent many days returning to the gallery and speaking with the people there about photography and how the art form has changed my life. On my final day, I went one last time to say farewell. Sonya, one of the Leica employees I befriended, told me to never stop photographing and being curious, and that resonated with me. I was encouraged to share my work once I got back home and developed it all, so I know what I will be doing once I have settled back in the states!
I feel extremely fortunate to have been on this study abroad program in Porto, and I will deeply miss being in Portugal. It is a place I hope to return to one day.
