Usama - Summer in Minnesota

Nothing can be more beautiful than living the life you desire.

Memorable moments

The moment I stepped onto the UMD campus, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for an opportunity I had always longed for. Every single day added to what was truly the best summer of my life. Among the many highlights, the interactive classroom sessions with Irish, American and South Korean peers stood out the most, broadening my global perspective and leaving me with lessons I will carry forward for years.

Cultural Discovery

Experiencing American culture firsthand was an exciting and eye-opening contrast to life back home. Beyond the classroom discussions, food was a major part of the cultural discovery; trying authentic American tacos and exploring local Midwestern dishes made every meal an adventure in adapting to new tastes.

Unexpected Challenges

Landing at MSP airport only to discover my luggage was delayed for four days was an unexpected test of patience. While navigating those first few days, buying essentials caused stress for those around me, I kept a calm mindset. I reminded myself that arriving in the United States was the true achievement, and a temporary luggage hiccup was just a minor detour in a much larger journey.

Building Connections

Connecting with people came naturally and became one of the most rewarding parts of the mobility experience. The shared environment, from classroom collaborations to exploring campus life, made it effortless to bond with both local American students and international peers. Engaging with diverse cultural backgrounds fostered an open, welcoming community and built friendships that lasted well beyond the programme.

Exploring Minnesota

In addition to spending the month in Duluth, the trip involved travelling through the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area and exploring the scenic North Shore along Lake Superior, taking in the region's expansive waterfront views and natural landscapes.

Make Every Moment Count

Embrace every moment with an open mind and resilience. Travel hiccups and cultural adjustments are simply part of the adventure. Keep your focus on the bigger picture and what you came to achieve. Participate actively in discussions, connect genuinely with people from different walks of life, and take full advantage of every chance to explore outside your comfort zone.