After graduating high school, I committed to attend The University of Tulsa. I was overjoyed to begin the next chapter of my life and my college education. Though I had been waiting for this my whole life, I found myself nervous to be in an environment with all new people. This anxiety quickly began to diminish after I applied to go on the summer Jumpstart TU program to Panama. On our trip, I was able to meet my future peers and instructors in a fun environment. When I was introduced to my group for the week, my anticipated pressure of meeting my classmates had simply melted away. We spent the whole week experiencing the culture, geography, and cuisine of Panama. 
Our hikes through the Panamanian jungle and rides on the Chagua river were gorgeous and a spectacular bonding opportunity. We even went to see the Panama Canal! This trip was my first time leaving the United States. My trip to Panama is an excellent example of the diversity of TU’s international programs. Not only are there countless study abroad opportunities, but the foreign language courses have been invigorating to say the least. After my trip, I was so inspired that I could hardly wait to learn Spanish the next semester. My language professors have been some of the most engaging and effective instructors I have had the pleasure of learning from. The University of Tulsa has ignited a passion to explore places and cultures apart from my own, and I look forward to seeing what opportunity it presents next.