Student Introductions (1 of 7)

We now want to take the opportunity to give thanks to the many people and organizations who helped us with funding and support in order to make this study abroad experience possible. All of the students on the 2015 Botswana Study Abroad Program will now introduce themselves one tent at a time, starting with Sophia and Ashley.

Hi! My name is Sophia Bui and I’m from Rochester, New York. I’m going to be a senior this fall, and I’m double majoring in Health and Society and International Relations and Global Studies with a focus in science, technology, and the environment, with a minor in European Studies. I’m especially interested in education, nutrition, and the obesity epidemic in the United States. After college, I plan to go to graduate school for Public Health and participate in the Peace Corps. For a few years, I hope to travel to less developed countries to help spread knowledge about nutrition and health. Eventually I’d like to work with economically disadvantaged youth in the U.S. on projects covering nutrition, education and community. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Benjamin A. Gilman Foundation and the College of Liberal Arts for financially helping me be a part of this amazing experience in Botswana.

Hi! My name is Ashley Thomas. This fall will be my fourth year at the University of Texas at Austin. I’m an International Relations and Global Studies major with a focus on science, technology, and the environment, and a minor in European Studies. I chose to come on the Botswana study abroad program not only because studying abroad is a requirement for my degree, but also because I’ve always wanted to go to Africa. I’m also interested in sustainability, environment preservation, and wildlife conservation. All of these things coupled with my love for adventure and new experiences made the Botswana program a perfect choice for me. I would like to thank my mom and dad for providing me with the financial funds necessary to take part in this program. I would also like to thank my friends and family for all their love and support and always encouraging me to follow my dreams. I love you all so much and hook ‘em!