A secret alleyway off the streets of Liége

Author: Sophia Hinkebein | Major: Nutrition and Dietetics | Semester: Summer 2023

When I was first looking for a study abroad experience, I wanted a program that would provide me with a greater insight into my future profession. As a nutrition and dietetic student, providing people with adequate nutrient dense food is something I value. I have learned the necessity of sustainability, especially when it comes to adequately feeding large masses of people. My main goal in choosing this study abroad was to strengthen and build my foundation of knowledge in sustainability. This exposure I hoped would help me set an expectation for the goals and values I hope to incorporate into my future profession.

When I was only 3 days into the program, I had already learned so much. With the Dutch lessons, beer, and bikes, I really felt like I was starting to blend in as a Belgian. Our classes were a series of lectures and tours of various companies, touching on topics from sustainable packaging to biogas. We were hosted by Ghent University, so many of our lectures were held on campus; however, while observing hands-on applications of sustainability, we were able to travel to multiple places throughout Belgium. To start, I learned so much about sustainable packaging and the initiatives being put in place by the European Green Deal. In all our visits I found the food science aspects of our lectures most fascinating. I didn’t realize the amount of food science required for efficient food production and all the possibilities it provided. While my classes at the U of A gave me a foundational knowledge for what I learned in Belgium, the classes at Ghent University were unique in their emphasis on the translation from the classroom to practical application. It really made an impact in further solidifying what I had learned. I have been inspired by all the different avenues sustainability can take.

As for cultural differences, I observed many. Of course, there are the little things, like the seat belts buckling the opposite way, many of the doors being push instead of pull, and most things not being seasoned; but the largest difference definitely has to be the lifestyle. For instance, prior to traveling to Belgium I was aware that people biked everywhere, but I still could not help but be astonished by the number of bikes that were being ridden everywhere. Rain, shine, or wind people are zooming to and from work on their bike. It really puts into perspective how spreadout everything is in Arkansas. Also, I knew leisurewear was not a common style in Europe, but it has still been interesting to see the different ways people dress for work and everyday life.

Studying abroad broadened my perspective in all the best ways. I would highly recommend the Sustainability in the Eurozone program. It was a great balance of classroom work, hands-on learning, and independent adventure time. I would recommend that future students really do their research and come ready with questions they want to have answered. The experience is exceptional, and you’ll want to remember every minute. Something I wish I would have done more of is journaling! Simply jotting down a few memories everyday can make all the difference when you’re looking back on your memories. The study abroad experience taught me how to not only be observant, but how to apply and compare my observations to my prior knowledge. Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I cannot recommend it more.