Summer 2017 Nomadic A magazine written and produced by students in Florida State University’s Noles Study Abroad Valencia Program

! Feliz aniversario! FSU Valencia celebrates 20 years PAGE 24

Vicky Pacheco has worked The Ruzafa neighborhood, From the Olympics to CNN, at FSU Valencia since 2001, the “Brooklyn of Valencia,” from entrepreneur to and her behind-the-scenes attracts locals and students climate expert, four study role helps the program run who want an artistic and abroad alumni make their smoothly and efficiently. cultural experience. mark on the world. PAGE 4 PAGE 14 PAGES 6, 10, 22, and 28 Letter from the program director e are PROUD, very proud, of you: the stu- dents and fac- ultyW who choose to study and teach abroad. It is not an easy choice, and it includes costs and other personal efforts. But we know—and those who 12 18 6 have experienced it are our best promoters—that the Mental maps 18 Arts and science on display 36 effort pays off. Table of contents/Summer 2017 You, brave students and Students find ariousv ways to to document their Visit Europe’s largest aquarium, an IMAX theater, and faculty who leave your one-of-a-kind memories of studying abroad. three stories of hands-on science in one place. comfort zones, homes, By Teaghan Skulszki By Alyssa Blanco Photo by Madison Manley cars, families, and loved Faces of the staff FSU Valencia Dean and Program ones behind for a few Taking care of business 4 Director Ignacio Messana Harmonic convergence 26 weeks or months, are Meet Vicky Pacheco, a hidden gem and key contributor International Programs alumni profiles choosing to do something that will change your view of the Discover why July is a hot month for music in Valencia to the FSU Valencia Program. Chasing her goals 6 world and ultimately, your view of life. You will learn and ex- By Taylor Goggin and in Spain. perience many new or different things. And, trust us, you’ll like By Jessica O’Connor From home-schooled teenager to professional model some, love many, and hate a few of those experiences, but they to national champion to Olympic star—FSU Valencia will become amazing memories and personality-shaping mo- Study center in focus Local landmarks 30 alumna Colleen Quigley’s unconventional journey. ments that you will have forever. Two architectural pillars, the Valencia Cathedral and By Carter Floyd This year FSU International Programs marks 60 years of edu- Fresh take on studying abroad 8 cating students abroad, of helping students and faculty make New for 2018: Spring break course offered in Valencia North Train Station, give visitors a lesson on two this eye-opening experience possible. FSU International Pro- through International Programs. “Golden Ages” of architecture. “Why not?” 10 grams has been in Panama for 60 years, in Florence for 51 years, By Brittany Argote By Madeline Hoffman FSU London alumnus Lee Alexander realizes the and in London for 46 years. In summer 2017, we marked the th importance of taking life’s opportunities. 20 anniversary of the Spain (Valencia) program, during which FSU Valencia hosts Belmont 20 Two Valencian visionaries 32 By Brittany Wallace time we have hosted around 10,000 students in Spain. For the Belmont students join Valencia program and create A closer look into two of Valencia’s most inspirational celebrations, for the hard work and the camaraderie, we thank all of the administrators, staff, program assistants, and recruit- unforgettable relationships with FSU students, and most prominent figures, painter Joaquín Sorolla The world in perspective 22 ers who made it possible to change the lives of so many people professors, and each other. and writer Vicente Blasco Ibáñez. Candi Obrentz reflects on her Florence study abroad through study abroad. By Madison Manley By Rachel Dranetz experiences and the impact they had on her career. Having said this, we would like to make a special call to you By Samantha Gettis students to share these memories with your friends. Some of us Don’t-miss attractions 34 in Spain come from a more collectivistic culture, and we know Beyond the study center Take a closer look at some of Valencia’s less-frequented An environmental epiphany 28 well that other countries and cultures tend to be a bit more in- Lives examined 12 dividualistic. This collectivist culture gives us a perspective that spots, and learn more about a few of the city’s oldest FSU Republic of Panama alumna catapults herself out we share with students every semester, every week. As human A personal look into the lives of several students at traditions. of her comfort zone and into tropical Central America. beings, we grow and mature in a much more positive way if we FSU Valencia. By Marc Hollingsworth By Ian Tramm can share things—if we can have another person or group to By Sarah Silva talk with, laugh with, cry with about whatever is happening in our lives, from a very important moment to a more casual but Ruzafa revitalized 14 meaningful “something” that just occurred yesterday. Please, neither be closed to sharing, nor be closed to listening Valencia neighborhood that went from an undervalued to others. The more you talk with others about your experience, barrio to a vibrant area appreciated by all. the more it means to you and to them. Many of those 10,000 By Amber Lewis students have passed by our offices, so we give you this advice from personal experience. A central meeting place 16 —Ignacio Messana Students and locals alike savor the tastes of the Central

Front cover photo courtesy of FSU Valencia Market. Photo credits for table of contents, clockwise from top left: courtesy of By Kamille Catala Noah White; courtesy of Teaghan Skulszki; courtesy of Colleen Quigley; courtesy of Lee Alexander; and Marc Hollingsworth 34 10 NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 2 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 3 sana had opposite academic schedules—one Revealing a hidden gem on FSU Valencia’s team with morning classes and the other with the afternoon classes—being in a mutual group of friends sparked their relationship. After graduation, both Pacheco and Mes- sana attended the School of Economics and Vicky Pacheco Business Administration of the University of By Taylor Goggin Valencia, and eventually earned their master’s degrees, Pacheco in economics and account- any students who study abroad recently been dealing with labor issues, ing and Messana in business administration. in Valencia, Spain, may not be fa- such as hiring and faculty contracts. The couple has been married for 19 years, miliar with Vicky Pacheco. As the Since FSU hired her in 2001, Pacheco and they have a daughter, Victoria, just shy program’s accountant and facili- has been an important contributor to of 8 years old. In Pacheco’s free time, she tiesM manager, she works in the Garnet study the program, being a part of and leading enjoys activities with her daughter such as as- center and focuses on financial issues rather other team members. sisting Victoria with her homework or taking than hands-on student matters. her to the park. Working behind the scenes for Florida “Vicky is a good friend, a good “Vicky is a huge family person,” says Cris- State University’s Valencia program keeps daughter, a good sister, a good tina Gil, a longtime friend of Pacheco. “Her Pacheco from having a lot of direct interac- wife, and a good mother. I feel loved ones are above everything. Vicky is a tion with students, she knows, but she still good friend, a good daughter, a good sister, feels an emotional attachment to them. very privileged to have her a good wife, and a good mother. I feel very “I do not have as close relationships with very close.” privileged to have her very close.” the students, but when I go to farewell — Cristina Gil In addition to her work and family, Pa- Photo courtesy of FSU Valencia lunches or trips, it fills me with happiness to checo enjoys a daily dose of the outdoors Vicky Pacheco (left) at FSU Valencia’s 20th-year anniversary dinner. see the students so content,” Pacheco says. “I work in the back office, I know, but by swimming and riding her bicycle around Pacheco is small in stature but mighty. in the end, the front office could not Photo courtesy of Vicky Pacheco town. On weekends, you can catch Pacheco tually how I got informed about FSU,” she two study centers, and on purchasing new Beyond her welcoming smile, she is a pow- prosper without the help of the back,” Vicky Pacheco at a gathering with her with her family in the beautiful coastal town says. furniture and equipment. erhouse of drive ready to take on any task she says. daughter, Victoria. Javea, sailing and enjoying the beach. One day when a job for the program be- “Managing the buildings is more active that comes her way. In addition to overseeing Associate Program Director Alicia Pacheco and Messana enjoy their privacy came available, Pacheco referred Messana to and ever changing, which sparks my inter- the financial aspects of the program, she has Martinez has worked with Pacheco since offices. Even though her work in the back- and keep a very professional appearance in Smith. She believed her husband was a suit- est a tad more than the accounting side of 2002, and she appreciates the diligent and ground may not be as visual, it is essential to the program. able candidate for the job: Messana spoke work,” she says. “The major aspect that efficient work Pacheco performs to help fur- the program functioning.” “I have all these fun experiences with the English, had a university degree, and was Pacheco has accomplished a great deal attracted me the most ther develop the program. Born and raised in Valencia, Pacheco at- students and faculty, and many people never looking for new employment. Messana throughout her 16 years of service to FSU. would be the students, “Vicky’s tasks have been growing with the tended high school nearby, where she met knew I was actually married to Vicky,” Mes- joined the FSU Valencia team in 2000 as as- Whether it is managing accounts, oversee- working with young program needs, and her work and efforts her husband, Ignacio Messana, during their sana says. “Students are always shocked that sistant director, and one year later FSU pro- ing the maintenance of current facilities, are well coordinated with the other offices,” senior year. He is Valencia’s program direc- we do not announce our marriage, but I moted him to director. or helping to purchase new ones, Pacheco people, young minds. I Martinez says. “Vicky is coordinator of the tor, dean of studies, and a professor who think it’s much more professional keeping it Fortunately, the FSU Valencia pro- believe it is a beautiful job, Administration office, and she, the staff teaches business and communications cours- that way.” gram was increasing in student enroll- “I never thought I would end up working with students.” team, and I work synergistically between es. Though in high school Pacheco and Mes- The two have their own personas, he says, ment each year, so Smith approached working for FSU International — Vicky Pacheco and while sometimes they have different Pacheco about a job with the pro- Programs; however, it resulted opinions on program issues, they both stress gram and she accepted. She never that they rely on all opinions from team thought she would work for FSU, but in being the best possible job members to navigate the differences. the work, she says, turned out to be imagined.” During college, Pacheco worked for Red the best job she could have imagined. — Vicky Pacheco Bull to help promote its brand to earn extra “The major aspect that attracted income, but her most avid interest has always me the most would be the students,” she wishes to continue her work in Valencia and been in all things accounting. She used her says, “working with young people, young to advance within the program. knack for numbers right out of university minds. I believe it is a beautiful job, working She also wishes to influence more -stu when she went to work for Banco Santander, with students. dents to join the program. FSU Valencia’s analyzing the risks of granting mortgages “When Bob Smith told me about the job, student body provides Pacheco with motiva- to potential borrowers. Pacheco worked for I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but it tion to continue to work her magic behind that bank for about three years, before she is an amazing, yet very interesting position.” the scenes and to keep the program running transferred to CaixaBank, which is where she And she continues to work in the field that from the ground up. met Bob Smith, a client of hers at the bank she studied in college and enjoys, yet she also ¨I want to contribute in helping the who at the time was the program director of gets to branch out to new ones. program be the best it could be,” she says, FSU Valencia. “Accounting has always been my passion; “having the students be bursting with joy This is how her path to working for FSU however, it can get quite mechanical, repeti- as they arrive, and devastated when they Photo courtesy of Vicky Pacheco began. tive at times,” says Pacheco, who also works leave—that is when I know I succeeded in Vicky Pacheco (far right) visits Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences with students and faculty during Summer Session 1 in 2017. “The development of this friendship is ac- on budgeting, on managing FSU Valencia’s my job.” NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 4 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 5 Quigley (left) poses five runners: the first team was composed of in Rio with former faculty members, the second was a co-ed stu- FSU teammate and dent team, and the third was an all-male stu- A dream of gold fellow Olympian dent team. Each team of challengers ran the Linden Hall. race as a relay, with each person on a team In 2013, Colleen Quigley was a college sophomore spending five weeks running one lap (400 meters). She ran the full studying abroad in Valencia; now she is chasing gold medals with the U.S. Below: 2000 meters. national track and field team By Carter Floyd Quigley (second “She beat us,” is all Messana will say about from right) visited the race results. bead of sweat drips down her back as stead, she is focused on getting the most out of Madrid and the “I beat them handily,” Quigley says. she takes her place on the starting line. her five weeks in Spain. presidential palace But the result matters little to Messana. The heat is stifling, and not just because After finishing eighth at the Rio 2016 Olym- while studying What he remembers most vividly is watching she is in one of Brazil’s hottest cities. pics, a year later Quigley reflects on her FSU Va- abroad Quigley warm up and realizing how athletic AAn entire lifetime of work culminates here, lencia experience and how it has helped her on the in Valencia. she is. in the next 10 minutes. She is used to pres- national team. “We were all standing around doing noth- sure—she is a former national champion, “I think [international travel] is good for any- Photos courtesy of Colleen Quigley ing—just stretching or whatever—and she is after all— but this is something else entirely. one, but I think it really helped prepare me to be running around the track doing her Three years earlier, in 2013, then-Florida away from home for a while in a situation that isn’t professional warm-up,” he says. “It State University sophomore Colleen Quigley entirely comfortable,” she says. “Being away from was like watching Michael Jordan.” runs through Turia Park in Valencia, Spain. home six months out of the year now—that’s just This serves as a great reminder Though she is breathing hard, she feels no a normal summer for [my teammates and me].… that, for all her modesty and friend- pressure, only tranquility, as she pushes onto We’re always away from home, in new places. You “I had people to work out with, liness, Quigley is still a professional mile number four. There are no bright lights, just have to adapt to wherever you are.” people to push me. I was not win- athlete. By necessity, she is an ultra- roaring crowds, or records to break. She is As a runner for both the national team and ning the workouts. I was being competitive person. Her job de- running because it is what she loves to do. Nike’s Bowerman Track Club in Portland, Ore- crushed, but it was awesome. They mands it. She does not know that in three years, gon, Quigley has very little time to spend with her made me better,” she says with a Unlike other athletes though, she she will be running for the United States parents in St. Louis. Running is her full-time job smile during a Skype video call. doesn’t seek prestige or acclaim. national team in the Summer Olympics. now. But Quigley takes comfort in the long hours That hard work paid off in the She strives to succeed because she She is in Valencia to take classes for her and grueling training sessions; she enjoys being form of an extremely impressive enjoys testing her limits. She is nev- dietetics major and her Spanish minor. around others who share her passion and her resume as a student-athlete. In er content, always “looking ahead Photo courtesy of Jeff Cohen The thought of running professionally drive. It was one of her favorite things about FSU high school, at Nerinx Hall in St. Quigley prepares for a race in Beijing to the next big goal” rather than is the furthest thing from her mind. In- when she first arrived on the Tallahassee campus. Louis, she was a National Merit resting on her laurels. Scholar and was offered track This was not always the case scholarships to some of the best though. As a girl, running was not programs in the country. At FSU, Quigley’s first love. She was a danc- she earned All-American honors er and a soccer player, and she ran Colleen Quigley placed nine times, All-ACC academic cross-country in the fall to get in eighth in the 3000-meter honors six times, and NCAA All- shape for soccer. But playing soccer steeplechase at the 2016 Academic honors four times. Also at FSU, administrators, and family members. for her high school would have required a Rio Olympics. she won the 2015 steeplechase national FSU Valencia Program Director Ignacio tryout, and having been homeschooled her Photo courtesy of Ian Walton championship, as well as conference cham- Messana keeps in regular contact with Quig- entire life prior to high school, she was af- pionships in the steeplechase, indoor mile, ley, and he has a similar impression of her. flicted with what she describes as a “fear of and 1500-meter. “We knew she was going to be a great rejection.” Despite her accomplishments, Quigley is professional runner,” he says. “She knew it. Rather than face the uncertainty of a soc- remarkably down to earth. She has a warm She knew she was smart. She knew she was cer tryout, she chose to focus her efforts on smile, an infectious laugh, and dislikes talking pretty. She should have been so stuck-up track—a no-cut sport. Even then, she still about herself. When asked about her individ- and full of herself, but she wasn’t. She was wished she could just practice and not run ual accomplishments, she inevitably redirects a sweetheart.” at the meets. the conversation to instead credit those who Quigley’s short time in Valencia clearly When a young athlete struggles with her have helped her: teammates, coaches, agents, left its mark on Messana. One memory in drive and self-confidence, one of the best particular stuck with him. remedies is a reliable coach. Quigley was “We were all standing around doing He recalls teaming up with no different. In her moments of doubt, she nothing—just stretching or whatever— other students and faculty turned to her first and best coach: her father. to challenge her to a race. Her lack of desire did not stem from a lack and she is running around the track They ran at a local track of competitiveness, but from the opposite. doing her professional warm-up. It was in Valencia. As Messana She was hyper-competitive, and struggled describes the scene, the more with meeting her own expectations like watching Michael Jordan.” field of challengers was di- — Ignacio Messana vided into three teams of See QUIGLEY, page 38 NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 6 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 7 Spring break FSU to offer spring break classes in Valencia, one in encouraging those students to travel on their 2018 and another in 2019 own later, Calhoun hopes. in Camino de Santiago Valencia Teaching the 2019 humanities course will be Kathryn Cashin, a member of the hu- manities teaching faculty who supervises By Brittany Argote International trade multicultural film and who has choreo- Teaching the economics course will be Joe Calhoun, a graphed many opera and ballet productions. Nicolas Gonzalez, a friend of the author tudents who want to study at FSU Valencia but can’t member of the teaching faculty and the assistant director of In the course, students will brave the of this article and a student at Florida Inter- afford the time or the money for a whole semester or the Stavros Center for the Advancement of Free Enterprise Camino de Santiago, a collection of hiking national University who hiked the camino in summer session are now in luck. FSU Valencia will and Economic Education at FSU. In Valencia, Calhoun will paths originally used by Christians during the 2016, recalls his own experiences and gives offer its first spring break class in March 2018 and will focus on international trade. Middle Ages to atone for their sins and to pay FSU students who take HUM 2020 a preview. addS a second course in 2019. “With Valencia being a coastal city with foreign goods homage to the Apostle James, who supposed- “It is a journey one takes to repent for sins The 2018 course is Principles of Macroeconomics (ECO coming into the port, it is perfect to illustrate trade,” Cal- ly is buried in Santiago in northwestern Spain. and . . . to be [absolved] of all sins in the 2013), and the 2019 course is The Art of Being Human houn says. The walk, which can be completed in 30 Photos by Nicolas Gonzalez end,” he says. (HUM 2020), a humanities course during which students “I’m hoping students see foreign exchange in a days, will be partially completed by the stu- Top: Views of the coastline near Deba, Gonzalez first heard of the journey will walk part of the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain. new and personal way,” Calhoun adds. “Looking at a dents in 10 days. The camino is best known Spain, can be seen along the Camino through family members who had completed The bulk of each course will be taught on the Tallahas- label and seeing ‘Made in ____’ isn’t seeing trade. By vis- for allowing hikers to gain a sense of tran- de Santiago. the walk and was captivated, recalling “sto- see campus over the whole spring semester, and then the iting a country where goods come from, seeing the goods quility, as the scenery is notoriously stunning ries of hard days of walking through ancient students who choose to go abroad will join their instructor move, and literally buying something with dif- and the lack of phone connectivity allows for Bottom: Wild horses graze along trails braved by millions before us [as well in Valencia over spring break. ferent currency should allow students to a clear mind. the hospitales path on the Camino as of] the scenery of the farmland and the The idea to add spring break courses comes from FSU understand trade in a deeper way.” “The camino relates in numerous ways Primitivo. mountains [in] the region Galicia.” Valencia Director and Dean Ignacio Messana, who believes When students directly to HUM 2020,” Cashin says. “The The camino is said to be rigorous, but night in a hotel during an overnight trip to that all students should have the chance to go abroad. return to Talla- course already has a component on the im- Cashin says precautions will be taken to en- Barcelona. “It would be beautiful for the Tallahassee students hassee, they will portance of pilgrimages, and in addition sure students’ safety. The benefits of cultural immersion to have the opportunity to come to Spain,” Messana share their ex- “Students will be through study abroad programs such as says. “And then we thought that we need to find periences and told they need to be those offered by Florida State are valuable something broad enough for the students to be able photos with able to walk about 12 even after the program has ended. to participate in.” the rest of the kilometers a day,” she “There are so many components the stu- class, in turn says. “However, a mini- dent will benefit from,” Cashin says. “They bus will travel with [the will see the art and architecture we discuss group] in case some- in person because the camino has represen- one is injured or ill, or tations from almost all art forms we study. simply needs a break. They will learn how the ruling faction con- Safety will be the top trols the art, architecture, and literature of consideration.” the area, the devastation of armed conflict, Cashin and Calhoun and even how pilgrimages helped start the Photo courtesy of Nicolas Gonzalez expect about 12 stu- hospitality Industry. While the trip tracks the Two students hike the camino in northern Spain. dents in each course, course beautifully, it will benefit many diverse and both instructors majors. The entire class will be able to learn covers the Roman and Islamic influences on have previously taught at FSU Valencia. from the students that participate in the trip Europe and the consolidation of Christian- Students in the humanities course will be when they return and present their findings.” ity. Moving forward, it investigates the influ- housed in hostels and hotels along the cami- For more information, see the International Pro- ence of architecture and art, the impact of no. Students in the economics course will grams website at international.fsu.edu/Programs. Napoleon and 20th century conflicts. HUM be housed in Valencia but will also spend a aspx?type=sb. The sun sets over the City of Arts 2020 and the camino fit together seamlessly.” and Sciences in Valencia, Spain. Photo by Kamille Catala

NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 8 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 9 veryone loves a good story— was really worthwhile in just seeing a perfor- He worked as a gradu- of success, of failure, of romance, of mance, and for me, it just reaffirmed that sto- ate counselor for six heartbreak. We’re hardwired to listen rytelling, no matter what sort of form or ve- months, guiding stu- carefully for the interesting, the un- hicle the story is in, is something that people dents’ experiences in Ecanny, and the inspiring. But to do so, first always want to consume,” Alexander says. London, until he landed we must listen to the stories of others; only He also credits his professors—one in a spot as a participant then can we weave their narratives into our particular—for validating the significance of on an Australian reality own, to be shared. theater as a form of storytelling. television show. When FSU alumnus Lee Alexander has always “[I had] an excellent teacher, John Degen, he talked with Balthrop loved storytelling, so when he went to FSU who was amazing,” Alexander says. “The- about leaving his job, to study theater, he was most interested in ater can [often] be seen as light and fluffy, she encouraged him to how to best share a great tale. and [people ask], ‘Do you really need an take advantage of the In 2000, Alexander found himself abroad, academic, rigorous analysis of [theater] to opportunity. The change studying in the London theater program. conceptualize why people are going to see also meant that he would Now 17 years later, he has found a way to entertainment?’ And [Degen] proved that we embrace this new chal- share others’ stories as a producer at CNN. do need that framework [to understand that lenge. Alexander cites In a phone interview, he shares his story we] can learn about the playwright, historical Balthrop’s support and of learning the value of traveling, sharing a context, themes, and genres that can define her “Why not?” motto good narrative, and asking, “Why not?” what a play is about and why someone like as key to helping him re- A native Georgia boy, Alexander grew up Shakespeare is still relevant today.” alize the importance of in a family from two different worlds. His fa- accepting the opportu- ther’s family preferred to stay close to home, “This is a time to hear nities life has to offer. avoiding travel outside of a few states. His In 2003, he returned mother’s family, however, were more adven- more voices, not fewer.” to London for graduate turous: According to Alexander, they were school, where he fur- “willing to drive four or five hours to meet — Lee Alexander thered his passion for for lunch somewhere” with family members storytelling and pursued who had found roots elsewhere. Lee Alexander, Alexander’s study abroad experience in a master’s degree in Text While traveling throughout the United shown here at the London also taught him that theater is a liv- and Performance Stud- Alexander, at Stonehenge in 2002, when he was a States with his mother, brother, and grand- Royal Pavilion in ing thing. ies at King’s College graduate counselor for FSU London. mother, Alexander learned that things he Brighton, England, “People want to see stories,” he says, London. After gradua- had heard from other family members is now a producer “They want entertainment; they want to be tion, Alexander moved to Washington, D.C., [just] ramped up, because people are grieving weren’t necessarily true, that he could spot for CNN, but he challenged. [Theater] doesn’t just have to be where he was a substitute teacher briefly, and their missing loved one or their murdered the similarities between himself and people honed his love musical or comedies. If you just invest in cre- then he moved to New York City. loved one, and it’s compelling TV.” from different backgrounds. And so, when for storytelling ating [a] great story and telling [that] story, At the time, a friend who worked for After leaving Nancy Grace and striking out given the opportunity to experience people through the FSU there’s going to be an audience for it.” Larry King at CNN connected Alexander when searching for a job with CNN, Alexan- of another country, he jumped at the chance. London Theatre Alexander’s experience as a student with with an interviewer for Nancy Grace, then der traveled to South America for six months, He chose the Florida State University Program. FSU London inspired him to return as a airing on Headline News (HLN). He landed backpacking from Colombia to Argentina. study abroad program in London, the very graduate counselor (now called a program the position as a production assistant, and The trip, he says, “reaffirmed that travel is a heart of theater and playwriting—the per- assistant for International Programs). In this when he left almost seven years later, he had really important experience. It’s a gift.” fect setup for a theater student like Alexan- All photos courtesy of Lee Alexander capacity, he connected with Mary Balthrop, become a writer-producer for the show. On When he returned to the U.S. with a fresh der. In fact, one of his favorite things to do then administrative director of FSU’s Lon- the Nancy Grace show, Alexander blended set of eyes, he did some freelance work with in London was to visit the local theater, pay “I traveled with another student [Helen] to Italy for a week, and we arrived in Venice with don study center whom he had formerly his love for storytelling, honed while earn- ABC News and eventually shifted into digital 10£, and enjoy a play. nowhere to stay and walked hours before my friend Helen found a bed in a convent and I only known when he was a student. ing his college degrees, with the factual as- news to produce web videos. Despite the price, “it was super high-qual- found [one] in a male dorm…. We were exhausted from drudging through the flooded nar- He says her life philosophy became his: pects of crime reporting. And then, in October 2014, an opportuni- ity,” Alexander says. “Even if it was a bad row canals, and she had packed a ridiculously large suitcase. Neither one of us spoke Italian. “If you get the opportunity to have an ex- He explains that Nancy Grace is an excel- ty arose for a production position on CNN’s performance, there was still something that By Rome, I had gotten sick and had to stay in bed for a day, and then we ended our trip in perience, you should embrace it and do it. lent storyteller. “The stories [she told] really Reliable Sources, a weekly media critique show you could learn from it.” Florence.” Whether it’s good or bad, you’re going to are captivating,” Alexander says. “All the in- See ALEXANDER, page 39 And, as any study abroad student learns Even still, Alexander didn’t let difficult trips get in the way of a learning opportunity or of learn from it. And why not?” herent ingredients of storytelling are there, quickly about most countries in Europe, strengthening the bonds of friendships. “[London] was a great hub to get to the rest “Every trip is going to have its pitfalls, but it teaches you lessons for the next trip,” he says. of Europe. I was able to do a lot of travel “And it teaches you a lot about yourself, as well as the person you’re traveling with. I spent to different countries on long weekends,” he three months with Helen and a very intense week with her in Italy, and even though I haven’t Two sides to every story adds. In all, he visited nine countries during seen her since, we are still in touch.” his time with FSU London, including Swe- On the weekdays, Alexander focused on his theater studies, and the London program al- FSU London alumnus Lee Alexander discusses the importance of travel, den, Italy, Spain, Greece, and France. lowed him to explore his interests in playwriting and storytelling. At the time, the humanities storytelling, and the news in today’s world Though Alexander enjoyed exploring community was engaged in a heated cultural debate over whether film was killing theater, so these new places, not every weekend excur- people questioned his pursuit of an arts degree in college. By Brittany Wallace sion went well. “London proved that theater is super relevant still.… There was always something that NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 10 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 11 new goal is to be one of the students in the FYA brochure that he found so convincing. One common issue people tend to en- counter when living in a new country is cul- ture shock. But Wright says he instead expe- rienced “reverse culture shock.” He sits back Humans of in his chair and starts to laugh. “I went to Wendy’s in America [during my visit home in December], and I ordered a medium drink, and it was humongous,” he says. “It was the biggest drink that I had had in a semester. It was bigger than any ‘large’ in Europe.” Valencia During his time in Valencia, Wright trav- eled throughout Europe and to several cul- tural festivals, such as Oktoberfest in Mu- By Sarah Silva nich, Germany and to Pamplona, Spain for the San Fermin Festival. ocated 4,618 miles from Tallahas- Stories “You learn so much, even in a weekend, see in Valencia, Spain is a little slice about the county and the people,” he says, of Florida State University that is the smiling. “My favorite thing to do when I temporary home to some unique and travel, especially when I travel by myself, Ladventurous students. Eager to jump out of at my hostels I just talk to people from their comfort zones, these students have got- different cultures and I ask them what it’s Photo courtesy of Ben Seamen ten a taste of what life is like in other cultures like—what they like about it, what they Ben Seaman feels on top of the world on this rooftop bar in Madrid. all around the world. don’t like about it.” During their time at FSU Valencia, these Through the opportunities at FSU Va- but I’ve never been indulged in the culture. students have the chance to participate in im- lencia, students are able to fully immerse So, I think that is pretty cool.” portant festivals, break common stereotypes themselves in new cultures. Wright’s advice As for what it’s like living in her family’s about other cultures, and have once-in-a-life- for future study abroad students is to “come country with a bunch of foreigners, she says time opportunities. in with an open mind … because once you with a smile on her face, “I thought when Not only is this program open to FSU open yourself up to the culture, the mindset, I was going to come here I wasn’t going to students, but to students around the world. and branch out of our American bubble and speak Spanish whatsoever because we’re sur- For example, in Summer Session II of 2017, meet the locals, I’d say that’s the best thing rounded by everyone who speaks English…. there were students from the University you can do for yourself.” But the other night I went out to dinner with of Miami, Florida Atlantic University, and eight girls, and I literally had to translate Carnegie Mellon University—and even a few Taylor Goggin, a junior from Miami, is around the table.” She starts to laugh, then students from the University of Valencia. no stranger to Spanish culture. With both says, “At least I’m getting a lot of practice.” The FSU Valencia Study Center unites a mother and grandmother from Seville, students under a common characteristic: Spain, Goggin was getting a chance to em- Ben Seaman, a junior from Miami studying their love of travel. This article takes an brace her roots in summer 2017. business, took on the unofficial role of the up-close look at six of the nearly 200 ad- “I feel a sense of connection with them program’s photographer during Summer II. venturous students studying in Valencia in because they’ve done the same,” she says. “I’ve been taking pictures left and right,” July 2017, five from FSU and one from the “I wish they wouldn’t have deprived me of he says. “Studying abroad gives us the poten- University of Valencia. Photo courtesy of Noah Wright living here. I love where I grew up [Miami]. tial to change so much, and through my cam- Of the five FSU students interviewed, four Noah Wright spent his first year abroad traveling throughout Europe, This experience has just made me want to era I’ve been able to watch everyone around ventured to Valencia without any previous including riding a gondola down a canal in Venice, Italy. pursue getting a master’s abroad.” me grow. I think they all should be able to friends, but they agreed that they wouldn’t Before studying in Valencia, Goggin had look back on all of these special moments.” change that fact for the world. Making new Noah Wright, a First Year Abroad (FYA) ended in early August 2017. already visited Spain many times and had After returning to Europe for his second friends and unique memories is a big part student from Los Angeles, arrived at the “I never saw myself as one of those peo- been to several cities, including Madrid and time, Seaman was getting to see the conti- of what FSU Valencia is all about. Here are study center for the fall 2016 semester and ple who would travel the world or have cool Barcelona. But 2017 was her first time in nent through a new lens. “The most eye their stories. stayed through Summer Session II, which stories about all the places they’ve been,” Valencia. opening experience for me is just seeing how “Come in with an open mind … because once you open he says. “It’s really cool because, even though different the lifestyle here is. The quality of What caught Wright’s eye before he made it’s one country, every part is really differ- life here is just as good, if not better [than yourself up to the culture, the mindset, and branch out the decision, though, was the part of the ent,” she says. “Living here is definitely an America]. And by quality of life I mean peo- of our American bubble and meet the locals, I’d say that’s brochure that says FSU offers in-state tuition eye-opening experience—actually having an ple’s happiness. People here seem way hap- to those who study abroad the first year. apartment here and going grocery shopping pier here than they are at home.” Photo courtesy of Taylor Goggin the best thing you can do for yourself.” “This is the best decision I have ever Taylor Goggin, in Morocco, rides a and having to convert money. I’ve only visit- made,” he says. He even jokes about how his See HUMANS, page 40 — Noah Wright camel into the desert. ed here and stayed for small periods of time, NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 12 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 13 alencia can be a lot to take in ago, and it was also for many poor people,” absolutely normal neighborhood, but it was all of a sudden, all of these new people came.” when you first arrive. The narrow Salazar says. “What happened is that many good for the interest of the developers to Due to all of the recent changes in the roads are crowded with towering people in the early 21st century started com- give this idea of a negative [area].” area, the neighborhood has become more of buildings that all stand tightly to- ing to Valencia to find a job. People mainly Even though a strict government was a place to go out in or to eat at, but not to gether as if they are close friends. from Latin America and Northern Africa once able to scare away outsiders, recently live, says Salazar. The cost of living has start- YouV could spend your entire time in Valen- (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Senegal, Mali) Ruzafa´s low cost of living has been able to ed to rise in the past decade, and more ac- cia simply exploring the historical El Car- came to the neighborhood.” draw people from all over back in, accord- commodations have been made for pedestri- men district. Unfortunately, some of the previous ing to Salazar. As the rumors of Ruzafa be- ans and visitors, so parking is also a problem. However, doing so would be an injustice neighbors started leaving because they ing a dangerous neighborhood grew older, Other changes are in the works, too. There not only to Valencia, but to you. Would you thought the coming of the new people more and more people started going there are plans to build a brand new park in Va- go to New York City to only stay in Manhat- meant the neighborhood lencia called Parque Central, tan, would you go to California and only see was not good, a belief that which will be placed right the Golden Gate Bridge, would you only go was echoed in the media and next to the Ruzafa neighbor- to Washington D.C. to see the White House? by developers and city offi- hood. Then why would you come to Valencia and cials, Salazar says. On Ruzafa´s website, a not venture to the hidden gem named Ruzafa? “They created in the me- map shows the area, almost Originating as a small village outside of dia the idea of danger,” Sala- as big as the neighborhood Valencia, Ruzafa was almost always a diverse zar says, “mostly, I guess, be- itself. This new park could and community-driven area. FSU Valencia ar- cause people from Northern not only push up the cost of chaeology professor and Valencia native Juan Africa and Islamic people living, but also draw in more Salazar thinks back to his earliest memories were living there.” people. of the neighborhood, noting how much he Realistically, the various While it´s true that many enjoyed the mixture of different people. newcomers were coming to people have moved out of “I think in that neighborhood, at least for Ruzafa for the same reason the area due to the recent me, it was the first opportunity to see that most immigrants move to changes, the overall culture people from all over could go there and you an unknown and different that engulfs Ruzafa con- could meet people from all over, and that’s a area: jobs. Photo by Amber Lewis tinues to lure people to the very nice experience,” Salazar says. When discussing the idea A busy Tueday afternoon inside the vibrant and colorful Mercat de neighborhood. that Ruzafa was somehow Ruzafa. When asked if he still dangerous, Salazar says, “It visits the area, Salazar says, was not true. It was created from outside.” to see it for what it really is: a cheap and “Yeah, absolutely … it has this intellectual Ruzafa revamped The various immigrants were truly coming nice place to live. cultural atmosphere.” By Amber Lewis to Spain to create their own businesses and Similar to many cities and neighborhoods Despite the increased number of bars in A neighborhood that dates back their own networks. in the United States, after a lot of young and the area, the neighborhood still radiates an to the beginning of Valencia “At the time, most of the people who creative people started moving there, the intellectual vibe, thanks to its cafes, restau- came at first were young men,” Salazar says. area began to change into a popular place full rants, and bookstores that are different from However, people have not always been as Photo by Amber Lewis “But eventually their families came. It was an of bars, bookstores, cafes, and embracing as Salazar is of this diversity. Still Built in 1957, the central market of Ruzafa is one of the city’s newest markets. art galleries. “I think in that neighborhood, at least for to this day there are parts of the world that The diversity also enhanced me, it was the first opportunity to see that are not comfortable differences, so it is no surprise that back in til the fall of Granada in 1492, according to the community, Salazar says. people from all over could go there and with racial the 1600s, diversity was a tremendous prob- the BBC. This history helped create a large “I have a Japanese friend that or reli- lem in Valencia. Islamic population in Ruzafa for many years. is cooking there in a Japanese you could meet people from all over, and gious The Moors, who were Muslims mostly However, in 1609, the Spanish monarchy restaurant and another friend that’s a very nice experience.” from North Africa, ruled Spain from 711 un- banned the practice of Islam in Spain. This doing classes of [Senegalese — Professor Juan Salazar move against Islam, including against Moors drumming].” who had been forced to convert to Christi- While the popularity of the neighbor- the ones in El Carmen, where the FSU Study anity (Moriscos), is called the Expulsion of hood sounds like a positive shift for the Center is situated. the Moriscos. community, sometimes you can’t see things But Ruzafa attracts many FSU students “So [the Moors] were thrown out of for what they really are until you name them, who are willing to walk a little farther from Spain,” Salazar says. “Some of the kids were and Salazar has given it one that Americans the study center. For instance, FSU student kidnapped, and they kept them here as slaves know all too well: gentrification. Taylor Goggin visited Ruzafa in July 2017. in the houses for the [other] families. So, the In theory, gentrification is supposed to im- “It was a cool neighborhood with a demographic history of the neighborhood prove and renovate a certain area. However young vibe that was close to El Carmen, but was broken—I mean absolutely broken.” while this process can benefit newcomers offered a different scene and atmosphere,” But in modern times, Ruzafa offered in- and tourists, it can also leave the original lo- Goggin says, calling it the “Brooklyn of expensive housing, so Muslims, as well as cals feeling betrayed. Valencia.” immigrants of other faiths, moved into the Photo by Amber Lewis “It was bad luck for the immigrants living Just like Brooklyn, Ruzafa is an increasing- community. Photo by Teaghan Skulszki A small, stylish Ruzafa coffee shop that there, because they were living in the center ly popular section of a big city that continues “My father lived in Ruzafa many years One of the many intricate pieces of graffiti in Ruzafa. offers healthy drink and food options. of the city, very nicely,” Salazar says. “Then, to burst with art, culture, and diversity. NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 14 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 15 El Mercado Central Explore says FSU senior Kristen Prue, who studied Fruits and vegetables tend themselves on having food items that have in Valencia in summer 2017. “There are a to be stacked on each only been handled by them, which is a plus bunch of different stalls, such a wide va- other, creating for potential customers. riety of things, and everything is just so One specific place in the market that is fresh, so vibrant, and so colorful, and to me noteworthy to mention, Central Bar, is enjoy it’s just magical.” situated amid various vendors. Mi- Throughout the market, which has more chelin star chef Ricard Camarena than 900 stalls, there is something for ev- opened this small eatery in Au- eat eryone, even adventurous types. From gust 2012. Since then, the al- ‘Vibrant’ and ‘magical’ market is a fresh ostrich eggs to Valencian oranges to tradi- ways-crowded eating place has tional Spanish meats, you never know what grown into an integral part of alternative for locals and FSU community you may find. the market, usually with a line Article and photos by Kamille Catala “You get to see foods you are not used to, of people waiting to sit and eat. and it’s interesting how immigration in Spain beautiful displays Camarena currently has three ust a few minutes’ walk from Florida State University’s has created booths of things we would have of fresh, ready-to- other restaurants that are also located in Valencia study centers lies a gem: El Mercado Central de never seen,” says FSU Valencia Program Di- eat products. Valencia and that are constantly busy: Ricard Valencia. rector Ignacio Messana, a Valencia native. The meats are also displayed uniquely, Camarena Restaurant, Habitual, and Canalla When you first walk up to this eye-catching building, This bustling and thriving market not only hanging from the ceiling of the stalls with Bistro. The food at the Central Bar changes J known in English as the Central Market, you immediately provides a variety of foods, depending on what is in season, notice the impressive architecture with patterned tiles that add to but more freshness than a typi- but always has some consistent the building’s grandeur. People stroll in and out of the building, cal supermarket. Since many items to munch on, such as boca- giving a sense of a thriving ant colony’s food hub. booths are locally owned, in- dillos (sandwiches). Already you feel the energy from the outside. As you step teractions between buyer and Not only is this place highly through the doorway, the buzz of the market awakens you with seller can be more one-to-one. rated online, but also, according an overwhelming number of vendors, foods, colors, and smells. “My house would always buy to the bar’s website, it relies on As you start to take everything in, you begin your journey into at the Central Market, because the “fresh produce sourced from the deep abyss of vendors. the product is very good, it is nearby stalls in the market.” This Since Valencia’s expansion in the early 19th century, a mar- very fresh, and also when you allows for customers to enjoy Ca- start going more and more of- marena’s creative dishes and the ketplace has been “When you start going more present at the ten, you get to know the ven- local vendors’ fresh ingredients. current location and more often, you get to dors that you buy from and it One common complaint about because of its know the vendors that you becomes something personal,” markets such as this one is bugs, recognition as the buy from and it becomes says Pilar Tarazona, another but in the Central Market things Valencia native who works with are different. When it was de- city’s market area. something personal.” Once the outdoor the FSU Valencia program. signed, the architects made sure to market became — Pilar Tarazona Most booths even offer free Meat stalls are typically seen displaying meats hanging, create a flowing space that doesn’t too small for thriving Valencia, a new market building was com- samples to allow potential cus- attracting potential customers to what they are selling. have air conditioning but that relies pleted in 1928, which is what still stands today. tomers to try before they buy. on letting the outside breeze flow TripAdvisor ranks the market as the #1 thing to do in Valencia, Compared to supermarkets, which displays rope or with the animal just laid out in the dis- in through the windows and out through the and for good reason. The Central Market is one of the biggest most items in packaging, the market has it play case. Most foods are visually shown in a open doors, which helps keep out bugs. indoor markets in Europe, and recent renovations have allowed all lying out in the stalls. way we are not accustomed to in the U.S, and “Since Valencia is it to continue being a huge tourist attraction and a central part of Vendors use limited space to display as in most cases vendors make sure to put up See MARKET, page 40 the lives of local people as well as of FSU students. much of their product “Do Not Touch” signs. They pride When you first walk into the market, you may wonder where to as they can. go first. This happens to everyone, but just walking around allows you to see everything and begin to understand the market, and which stalls interest you. “It’s something that you don’t really see much of in America,”

Top: Architects Enrique Viedma and Àngel Romanì completed the market’s construction in 1928. Middle: These are some artisanal breads sold in many stalls throughout the market. Bottom: Central Bar is a popular destination in the market created by Michelin star chef Ricard Camarena. Photo by Kamille Catala NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 16 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 17 Brittany Wallace the timeless photographic style. She the people she has met. explored Europe even put away her professional cam- What makes Freas’s journal different from with her Lego era and instead chose to pick up her other students’ archives is the physicality. Memories friend, Grayson. Polaroid to archive her memories. “On social media, you can only put so Argote says watching the fireworks much,” Freas says. “Of course there are go- to last a over the Eiffel Tower on Bastille Day ing to be some stories that you just can’t put was “the most incredible experience out there. I’m worried that when I’m old I’m I’ve had my entire life—I was in awe going to forget details, so I want to describe the entire time.” I have about six or them now.” seven Polaroid photos from Paris, a Freas’s journal did have an audience at one lifetime lot from the Eiffel tower.” point. For her ENC 1102 class in Florence in FSU students in Valencia had a unique opportunity Photo courtesy of Brittany Wallace Her favorite Polaroid was taken in fall 2016, Freas was required to keep a jour- Grayson traveled Europe, including a visit to and several found distinctive ways to record the time front of the Eiffel Tower. She took nal. Even after warning her instructor how the Colosseum in Rome. a picture of the tower during the day personal the journal was, she decided to share By Teaghan Skulszki when he is not in Tallahassee, pictures of food because “it’s a common and then again at sunset. it with her instructor for the assignment. he and his family live in Vicenza, meeting ground,” and because it’s “more dif- Argote singles out Polaroids as an alter- Freas’s ENC 1102 class does not stand eople try to capture indescribable Italy. ficult to document in the specific way I am native way to archive your time. She enjoys alone. Other FSU classes also encourage moments in pictures, videos, and Even though Tramm has lived with places, unless sometimes I can actually them more than a picture from her digital students to archive their time abroad. For words. Although we can never cap- in Europe for a great part of his set up something, like the Colosseum.” camera because “you’ll able to hold them in example, in the Editing, Writing, and Media ture a moment perfectly, we can try life because of his father’s mili- Likewise, Martin has a Lego companion your hand,” she says. She also believes the Program in Valencia, students are required to Pour hardest and appreciate the memories tary career, he still finds him- named Amelia, whom he took on his sum- aesthetic of the pictures is more valuable. create a blog post each week. One 2017 blog we’ve shared. self documenting his mer U.S. vacation. “The pictures of being in Valencia and Par- post, for example, was based on describing At Florida State University’s study center time abroad. What “Florida is home,” Wallace says, “And the is are nice on their own, but with the Polaroid the differences between living in Valencia in Valencia, Spain, students are doing just makes Tramm’s re- Legos are all about the travel aspect and keep- they become that much better,” Argote says. and living in Florida. Another weekly assign- that, making memories that will last a life- cords so unique is the ing someone close to you while you’re away.” Jamie Freas of Michigan documented her ment for the EWM program included Ins- time. However, the way in which these mem- subject he chooses to docu- As of the end of July 2017, Wallace had time as a First Year Abroad student with FSU tagram posts that could be seen on the pro- ories are recorded is unique to each student’s ment: the graffiti or “street shared the photos of Grayson only with between the fall of 2016 and the summer of gram’s Instagram account, NomadicNoles. experiences and interests. Likewise, the way art” throughout Valencia. Martin and close family, but she was also 2017 by writing in a journal. However, her Topics included food, the program’s trip to in which students record their memories var- He uses the social media planning to publish Grayson on other media journal is much more than her thoughts and Madrid, and floors or doors around Valencia. ies from person to person. platform Snapchat, which means Photo by Teaghan Skulzski platforms besides Snapchat, specifically Ins- ideas; it includes letters, maps, plane tickets, Unfortunately, we can’t recreate the mem- Over the five weeks in Valencia in the the photos only stay on his feed for 24 tagram and Facebook. train tickets, and even articles from her time ories we’ve shared, but we can try to pre- 2017 Summer II session, students docu- hours. There is an option to save the photos, ating it, but the blog at that point took a chic In a more vintage turn, Brittany Argote in Florence, Italy. serve them. Whether it be through a blog, mented their adventures through various but Tramm prefers not to and keeps them look at some of Valencia’s best views. used Polaroids to document her 2017 sum- Freas writes in it after every trip she goes an Instagram post, or a journal, the way in media platforms, the most popular being In- locked in his memories rather than in his Waldberg wrote an introduction post mer in Spain. She was given the camera the on, or if she hasn’t been on a trip in a while, which we archive our memories is important. stagram, due to the layout of the site, which camera roll. based on her first 24 hours in Valencia and day of her departure from the U.S. by a every week or so. She keeps the journal to In years to come, the way we document is centered on posting photos. However, that He chose to use Snapchat for himself rath- was planning to circulate the blog through good friend, which turned out to be a ben- “write the memories and crazy things she’s our memories will change. But for now, keep didn’t limit FSU students, as they branched er than others. “It’s more for me,” he says. “I various media outlets, including Instagram eficial twist because Argote fell in love with done,” she says, and as a way to remember on posting, writing, and enjoying. out from the norm and displayed different like putting things on my story that I would and Facebook. ways of documenting their time abroad. enjoy and I would laugh at.” “I’ve gotten lots of positive feedback Even a Lego man was involved. In this case, Tramm is not focused on his through likes and comments, which definite- Teaghan Skulszki documents her time abroad Ian Tramm, a second-year senior at FSU audience, but he has shared the images with ly makes me want to keep posting,” she says. majoring in English with a focus on creative his family. While there are myriad amazing She was also planning to travel to other writing, has lived abroad before. Currently, things to photograph in Spain, he connected places after the summer study abroad pro- to the graffiti on a personal gram and hoping to write about those expe- level. He describes it as “a riences as well. manifestation of a feeling in- Brittany Wallace brought along a friend side someone; I do the same to document her time in the program: Gray- thing for writing, and I relate son, a Lego figure given to Wallace by her to it.” boyfriend, Sean Martin. Unlike Tramm, Paige “I told him before I left I’d like to take Waldberg was experiencing something with me to remember him by,” Europe for the first time, and says Wallace, a senior at Florida Atlantic The most basic way I The social media platform A more personal way My favorite way she created a blog to docu- University. Grayson was among other items documented my time I used most to document I documented my time to document my ment her travels. The title included in the little box of items Martin abroad is by photographs. my time is Instagram. I am abroad was with my time abroad was of the blog, “La Pagina de presented her with. Here is my favorite photo of public with my Instagram journal. I kept notes through Polaroid Paige,” is a play on words that Grayson traveled all over Europe, includ- myself from the trip hiking and use it very often. This from class in my journal pictures, using a translates to “The Page of ing Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, and Rome. In a beautiful castle in Xàtiva. photo is of a sunflower and wrote about my 300mm camera. This Photo courtesy of Ian Tramm Paige.” As of the end of July the photos, he can be seen at the Colosseum field next to a rest stop on personal experiences. Polaroid is of the A photo of graffiti in Valencia taken by student Ian 2017, Waldberg was still cre- and dining on paella. Wallace likes to take Tramm on Snapchat. our way to Madrid. aqueduct in Segovia. NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 18 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 19 Jose Gonzalez, a Belmont professor, third from left, with several of the Belmont students, taught in Valencia during the 2017 Summer II session. Photo by Madison Manley Belmont’s campus in FSU students and Bel- ternates with Overby to teach the Belmont Nashville, Tennessee mont students mesh summer program. Gonzalez taught in Valen-  very well,” says Igna- cia in summer 2017, and Overby is scheduled cio Messana, Director to return to Valencia in 2018. and Dean of the FSU “I missed my FSU Valencia family and vis- Valencia Study Center. ited Valencia in 2009 to discuss a collabora- “The mixing is per- tion idea with Messana,” Overby says. fect, and in all cases it So Overby and Messana proposed an Valencia since 2010. “I think that the FSU students has worked very well.” agreement that would allow the Belmont While Albright and The FSU/Belmont University students to take classes and would Elias’s friendship and luck and Belmont students mesh affiliation was cre- allow a Belmont faculty member to teach egan Albright and Annie Elias brought them to Spain, Karen Roggenkamp, very well. The mixing is ated collaboratively by two business classes during the Summer II have been attached at the hip for an international business major at Belmont, Messana, a Valencia session every year. years. Being in the same sorority, was persuaded by the academics. perfect, and in all cases it has native, and by former Belmont University offers more than 60 they knew that this summer they “I really wanted to study abroad, and this worked very well.” says. “It was a bit of a shock to me, but I’ve FSU faculty member Jeff Overby, now at study abroad programs, so Valencia is just wantedM to take on an adventure together. study abroad [program] had classes that — Ignacio Messana, adjusted really well, and FSU students are all Belmont University. Messana and Overby, one of many. “We probably have three pro- Yet, little did they know that with the influ- would count towards my major,” Roggen- very nice people.” both business professors, saw the potential grams that come to Spain,” Gonzalez says. ence of Elias´s sister, these two Belmont kamp says. She had no idea that her excite- Director and Dean of the While Albright was a bit nervous about to create something special and jumped right “The other two are primarily focused on lan- students would end up taking on a joint Bel- ment to learn would lead her to places like FSU Valencia Study Center the interaction with FSU students, guage acquisition. In this program, mont/Florida State study abroad program in Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Rome, and Florence. Elias couldn’t wait to be around the the majority of the students are Valencia, Spain. While Roggenkamp, Elias, and Albright all gram knowing no one but walked out with FSU students. “It has been fun,” not taking language courses but are had friends coming close friendships with both Belmont stu- Elias says. “I am glad the FSU stu- taking other classes. This program into the program, dents and Florida State students. dents are here. I think it would be a  contains primarily business stu- Belmont, meet FSU; Belmont student While the Belmont students stayed busy completely different experience if it dents, not language students.” Emma Svedin came exploring the cultures of Spain and other was just Belmont students. I think it Overby believes that this pro- in not knowing any- European countries, they still had time to talk is better that we are with FSU kids.” gram is particularly appealing be- FSU, meet Belmont . . . one. She walked into about meeting the FSU students. The Belmont program, which ► cause of the wide variety of classes, the program excited “I was like ‘Oh my gosh, I am really ner- enrolls about a dozen students each the relatively large number of fac- about the busi- vous to meet these people,’ ” Svedin says. year, is held during FSU’s Summer ulty and staff, and the opportunity “But everyone has been so welcoming, and . . . in Valencia ness and marketing II session, which sometimes enrolls ► for Belmont students to interact classes offered and it has been a really fun time.” around 200 students. with culturally diverse students. By Madison Manley was thrilled when The Belmont students interviewed for this While the 2017 Belmont students The joint program has been a she got to Valencia article felt varying degrees of nervousness weren’t able to take part in many winner for both universities. What “My sister did this program when she was and had the opportunity to experience the about being around so many students from of the cultural activities offered by  grew out of the collegial relation- a student at Belmont and had the time of her diverse culture of both Spain and Florida a different school, but they say the FSU stu- FSU because of their own personal ship between Messana and Overby life,” Elias says. State University. dents made them feel right at home. travel, they thought their time in several years ago has allowed for Albright and Elias were just in time and “Everyone is so nice,” Svedin says. That “It is a different culture, actually two dif- class with FSU students allowed for plenty to it. When Overby was at FSU, he regularly students of Belmont and FSU to create luckily snagged up the last two available was what was most surprising to me.” Even ferent cultures: FSU and Spain,” Albright of pleasant interaction. taught at FSU Valencia and at FSU London new friendships and shared memories at a spots in the program. after only two weeks of being Just as the four Belmont students spoke during the summers. pivotal time in their lives. “Megan texted me and told me she had in Valencia, Svedin had already positively about their interactions with FSU “We offered our just gotten an email saying that two spots formed a close bond with four students, FSU students—including Amber facilities and our pro- opened up, so we signed up,” Elias says. other Belmont students and was Lewis and Carter Floyd—had positive things gram to another uni- Belmont, a private university in Nashville planning to travel all around Eu- to say in return. versity to use the bene- that enrolls about 8,000 students, has offered rope with her new friends. Basi- “[Roggenkamp] was friendly when I first fit and expertise of our a study abroad program affiliated with FSU cally, Svedin walked into the pro- met her and told me how much she want- facility,” Messana says. ed to visit FSU and go to a football game,” “Jeff used to come, FSU’s Westcott Building is a Lewis says. “I always tell her that she should like many others, as just transfer.” a part of FSU, but prominent campus landmark Even though Floyd, a sports administra- when he left [FSU] he tion major, noticed that some of the Bel- went to Belmont and mont students weren’t as interested in foot- established a partner-  ball as he is, he says, “They´re very friendly ship between Belmont and open to meeting new people.” and Florida State,” says Lewis and Floyd were not the only ones Jose Gonzalez, who Photo by Emma Svedin who picked up on how well Belmont students teaches business cours- Annie Elias, left, and Megan Albright love traveling blended with FSU students. “I think that the es at Belmont and al- together and are shown here in Ireland. NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 20 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 21 “I asked Siri to find the best portable ground cover so that I could purchase it to avoid the wet jacket problem in the future, and I was shocked that nothing like this was RestoPresto magnifico Embracing her available in stores or online,” she says. “I could not be- Editor’s note: Candi Obrentz a trustworthy advisor to help lieve that my options were a tarp, a huge picnic mat, or a did not know she wanted to start people navigate all stages of the kids’ blanket and that what I wanted to buy did not exist. a business and work for herself creation process, I launched a lessons learned So, I decided to create it myself.” until that fateful day in Central second business as an idea ex- With little design and retail knowledge, Obrentz “took Park. In her own words, she ecution strategist. Having an FSU Florence alumna a leap of faith” and taught herself how to navigate the describes her process, including invention idea but not knowing Candi Obrentz shares creation and e-commerce process, hiring specialists how the experience sparked the what to do next and who to trust her journey from English when needed to help her bring her vision to fruition. idea for a second business. are very common challenges. I After 15-plus prototypes, RestoPresto, a lightweight, Starting my own business know firsthand how to success- major to entrepreneur durable, and multi-functional water-repellent wearable was not on my radar because I fully turn a vision into a work- blanket was launched to the market and was subsequent- crave structure and always en- ing product, how to form a busi- By Samantha Gettis ly granted a patent. In September 2016, RestoPresto was joyed working for established ness, and how to manage the featured on The Today Show, “an innovator’s dream come organizations. critical steps in-between, so I he time Candi Obrentz spent as a true,” Obrentz says. One of the more difficult chal- apply this knowledge and share study abroad student in Florence, “I have achieved remarkable milestones for RestoPres- lenges for me, aside from figur- my vast network of specialists Italy during the summer of 1992 to as a sole business owner, so when my inventory sold ing out how to create a product with clients who want to bring taught her a valuable lesson: The out, it confirmed to me that the future of this product from scratch, was to find a fac- their own ideas to life. Tworld is bigger than it seems and holds end- is very bright,” she says, adding she is now entertaining tory to quickly and efficiently Launching a product or ser- less opportunity. partnerships to expand the business. “I transitioned from manufacture RestoPresto be- vice to the market is very chal- Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Obrentz seized the first chance that having a secure job at a 200-plus year-old global company cause it is a complicated produc- lenging, so I devise customized she had to travel overseas when, between her junior and senior years of college, her to forming a start-up and being my own boss. I have re- tion process. I know that doing plans to make the process more globetrotting mom and stepdad made this possible. turned to Florence many times since the summer of 1992 the right thing for the product efficient and less confusing for Obrentz always had the curiosity to see beyond her hometown and seek out adven- and my last visit was momentous because I had Resto- and for my business takes time. others since I have been there ture, and Florida State University’s study abroad program in Florence was a perfect fit. Presto with me. I will never forget the feeling of pride The huge accomplishments and done that. Using a search Exposure to Italian culture led Obrentz to broaden her view of what spending time in that I had while using my own product invention on the of finalizing the prototype; engine is great for research— a foreign country offers and how she could take advantage of such possibilities. streets of a city that holds a special place in my heart.” running a successful Kick- collaborating with an experi- “I remember walking alone through Florence one morning and as usual stopped starter campaign to fund the enced, ethical expert who can to gaze up and marvel at the glorious Duomo,” she says. “I felt like, if someone was A lasting impression from Florence first production run in the USA; connect the dots to accelerate a looking down on me in that moment, I would be a little pinpoint on the map. The Obrentz’s exposure to a foreign land through an open- obtaining a patent; scoring project is even better. idea of being there made me feel alive.” minded lens stemmed from her decision to study abroad fantastic TV, radio, and digital Before RestoPresto, I did not The thought then of being a pinpoint, however, has not held her back from taking in Italy. Knowing that she wanted to travel overseas and press; and having a waiting list plan on becoming an innovator; risks and aiming for challenging goals. After graduation in 1993 from FSU with a take on adventure when the chance to apply to FSU’s In- for out-of-stock colors because however, once it became evident degree in English and vivid memories of Europe, she moved to the South of France ternational Programs presented itself, she chose Florence of its popularity have been the that the demand for this type of for a “gap year” before relocating to New York City, where she has lived for more to have exposure to a non-English speaking and entirely most rewarding moments of gadget heavily outweighed the than 23 years. new culture. my professional life. supply, I decided to go for it. Today, it is clear that Obrentz’s decision to study abroad played a significant role in “It was one of the best decisions I have ever made,” Once again discovering a After all, you miss 100% of the the development of her character—including her motivation and drive for new op- she says. gap in the market, this time for shots you don’t take! portunities. The most notable of those opportunities struck her one day when she Courageously, in search of a more insightful experi- was in Central Park and wanted to stretch out in Sheep Meadow. ence, Obrentz applied for the program without knowing Without anything to sit on, she used her jacket, which quickly be- anyone else attending her session. Going abroad on her came damp from the grass. own gave Obrentz the opportunity to discover an entirely new group of friends—one that could represent exactly (Top photo) When Candi Obrentz studied in Florence in who she was at this point in her life. 1992, the streets of the city were filled with tributes like “You are drawn to certain people, with whom you this bust of Lorenzo de’ Medici to commemorate the 500th choose to spend time in a unique scenario like studying anniversary of his passing. in a different country, for various reasons,” she says. “I Candi Obrentz with her remember being very choked up as I bid farewell to the patented RestoPresto (Middle) Obrentz is standing in front of the FSU Study group at the end of our summer semester and was al- on the Arno River Center, which is located in a renovated Renaissance palace ready looking forward to the next time I would see my during a return visit to on Borgo Degli Albizi in the historical center of Florence. classmates and professors again.” Florence in 2015. During her first days in Florence, like many students (Bottom) Sculptures and fountains are abundant in who study abroad, Obrentz had a bit of an adjustment, Florence, and this structure is on Via Nazionale in the San but quickly committed to full immersion into a culture Lorenzo neighborhood, which is a short distance from the that proved to be one of endless gifts and surprises. hotel where Obrentz and her classmates lived during the See OBRENTZ, page 44 summer of 1992. All photos courtesy of Candi Obrentz NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 22 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 23 20th anniversary —

Celebration time

n June 2017, FSU International Programs (IP) celebrated 20 years Iof being in Spain. The festivities culminated in a dinner at the architecturally stunning L’Umbracle, part of the City of Arts and Sciences complex alongside Valencia’s Turia Gardens. On hand were IP Director Jim Pitts (right), FSU Director and Dean Ignacio Messana (above, holding package), retired music professor Larry Gerber (top right with hand in air), the FSU Valencia staff and faculty, as well as many FSU Valencia alumni, summer students, and friends of the program. All photos courtesy of FSU Valencia FSU Valencia 2017

NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 24 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 25 Marcia Porter is an associ- ate professor in FSU’s Col- “I’ve gone to Café del Duende several lege of Music, specializing in times for flamenco, I’ve heard several voice and opera singing, and concerts in Turia Park and traditional she has taught in Valencia for three summer sessions, in- Valencian music in the Plaza de la Summer sounds cluding two classes in 2017, Virgen. I love the music scene here.” The Valencia streets and venues Music in World Cultures and t’s fair to say there is no better time than the month of July to be — Associate Professor Marcia Porter Music of Spain. She says in the city of Valencia. are filled each July with festival Valencia serves as a great The sun is shining, travelers from many countries line the lo- events and cultural opportunities opportunity for students to not only learn If classical or traditional music is not your cal beaches, and extra special music is in the air. From festivals about the region’s music but also to experi- thing, Valencia offers every genre you could toI local venues, a music lover’s to-do list can easily be filled during By Jessica O’Connor ence the scene in person. think of: jazz, pop, hip hop, reggae, and, of the heart of summer. Porter asks her students to attend at least course, Spanish bands. For example, Txa- All month, the area celebrates the Feria de Julio, also known as two live musical performances during the rango, a fusion band formed in Barcelona the Gran Fira de Valencia, a cultural festival locals and visitors to Feria de Julo. In addition to the events of in 2010, kicked off Valencia’s Concerts de the city look forward to every year. For students studying abroad the fair, though, Porter appreciates Valencia’s Vivers, a slate of 17 concerts held in Jar- during Session II, the timing is perfect to be immersed in this cul- live music scene in general. dins de Vivers as part of the Feria de Julio. tural experience, and some of the venues just happen to be right in “There is always something to see and Txarango’s sound is inspired by the styles of Florida State University Valencia’s backyard. hear and much of it is free,” she says. “In reggae, pop, Latino, and dubstep music, and The Feria de Julio boasts an array of music, performances, food, mid-July, I went to the ‘Nit a Les Artes’ event they performed music off their new album carnival rides, and even the famous Battle of the Flowers, which with a couple of colleagues for an opera per- in Valencia. caps the month-long schedule of events. The festival dates back Photo courtesy of Marcia Porter formance. It was great – the weather was The lineup for Concerts de Vivers always to 1871, and it was founded to bring visitors to Valencia. Over the beautiful, the singing was lovely, and there includes bands that have experienced in- about 55 miles and an hour-long train ride course of the Feria’s 146-year history, the event has evolved into an was such a large crowd, at 10:30 p.m., for op- ternational success. In 2017, UB40, which from Valencia. institution that attracts famous performers, chefs, and vendors from era. It was standing room only.” is widely recognized for its chart-topping The fest combines music and camping all around the world. Porter says local clubs such as Café del reggae cover of Neil Diamond’s “Red Red with an all-star lineup, and people flock to Duende and Radio City are popular stops Wine,” played during the series the beach town from all over Europe. The for local culture, especially flamenco perfor- Among the other performers were Chick most notable headliners in 2017 were Red mances. Corea and Bela Fleck, Alpha Blondy and Hot Chili Peppers and The Weeknd. “I’ve gone to Café del Duende several Colombia’s Carlos Vives, who had a hugely “It was an opportunity to meet people times for flamenco, I’ve heard several con- popular duet with Shakira, “La Bicicleta,” from all over Europe and even run into peo- certs in Turia Park and traditional Valencian which had 1 billion views on YouTube as of ple who were from Florida,” FSU Valencia music in the Plaza de la Virgen,” Porter says. August 2017. student Shelby Ridener says. “I made new “I love the music scene here.” If you love a good cover song, the fair usu- friends and got to enjoy music in a crowd of ally schedules several tribute bands. Valencia- people all just coming together and enjoying based bands The Troupers, an ABBA cover life,” adding that “seeing The Weeknd per- band, and Momo Queen, a Queen cover form live made sleeping outside worth it.” band, performed in 2017. The musical lineup While sleeping outside is one way to get for the Feria de Julio is always diverse, and close to live music, anyone walking through catching a concert should be on the “bucket the Plaza de la Virgen on the evening of July list” of every study-abroad student. 17, 2017 would have stumbled upon a live Besides the Feria de Julio, perhaps one of orchestra concert. La Banda Simfónica Unió the most anticipated musical events of the Musical de Lleida is a full orchestra with summer in the Valencia region is the Festival close to 80 musicians, and they played until Internacional de Benicàssim, which is simi- midnight to a packed crowd. lar to the likes of Bonnaroo in the U.S. The Looking around at the people, it was easy event takes place in the town of Benicàssim, to get a sense of euphoria. Here they all stood on a warm summer night, amid “I made new friends and got to this beautiful classical music, with an ancient cathedral in enjoy music in a crowd of people all the background, and a glass just coming together and enjoying of wine in hand. life . . . seeing The Weeknd perform While this sounds like the live made sleeping outside worth it.” scene of a romance movie, it’s Photo by Jessica O’Connor just another night in Valencia — Shelby Ridener (right) during the Feria de Julio. Photo courtesy of Shelby Ridener NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 26 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 27 lorida State University study abroad “It was really a win-win-win situation for hardships, she still had plenty to deal with. alumna Lauren Stuart thinks of her me,” she says about her enrollment at FSU. “It was a bit of a shock coming from Ten- life in two chapters: before Panama “In Tennessee, there are no universities that nessee because Tennessee is very conserva- “I tell people meteorology chose me—I didn’t and after Panama. offer a meteorology program, so if it was tive—it´s pretty rural,¨ Stuart says. ¨It’s much choose it. I have actually wanted to be a FBorn and raised in Kingsport, Tennessee, something I really wanted to study, I knew different than Panama, so going from Ten- a town of about 50,000 people in the north- I’d have to go out of state.” nessee to Panama was definitely a shock, but meteorologist since I was about 4 years old. ern part of the state, Stuart dreamed of one Out-of-state tuition costs are steep, so I handled it pretty well I think.” One of my earliest memories in life is watching day becoming a meteorologist. when she decided on studying abroad and Stuart describes her transition as just a bit the weather radar with my dad, and it’s always “I tell people meteorology chose me—I the Panama program, she alleviated the pres- stressful, but she says it influenced her over- didn’t choose it,” Stuart says. “I have actu- sure of a weighty bill with the bold choice all attitude about tackling difficult situations been one of my greatest passions.” ally wanted to be a meteorologist since I to apply for the First Year Abroad program and about problem solving. — Lauren Stuart, shown here standing on a was about 4 years old. One of my earliest through International Programs. The deci- “I approached it as I know this is going to memories in life is watching the weather ra- sion allowed her to receive in-state tuition be a challenge, I know it’s going to push me bridge with the Panama City skyline behind her dar with my dad, and it’s always been one of when she returned to the U.S. in ways I’ve never been pushed before, but Photo courtesy of Lauren Stuart my greatest passions.” “My original thought was to go to Spain,¨ I’m going to let it happen and let this experi- “I think the most significant way it changed 2017 she is finishing a master’s degree in cli- the organization. On just the second day of my life was it opened my eyes to an entirely mate change and international development her internship, Stuart was assigned to three different world,” Stuart says. “Tennessee is at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, separate projects, and by the first week, she very much like a bubble, and you don’t really England. was assigned to a supervisory role on anoth- get out of that bubble very much. Living in ¨I’m really hoping to take that science as- er. ¨It´s a great learning opportunity; not a Panama, that was the first time I was really pect of weather and climate and apply it to lot of interns get to supervise a project so forced to confront real poverty, real inequal- communities that are really dealing with the that´s really exciting.¨ ity.” impacts of it,” she says. “[I want to] figure Despite her appreciation for the opportu- While she didn’t travel much outside of out ways that we can help them adapt and re- nities afforded to her at the UN, Stuart does onquering Panama during her year abroad, she saw as spond and build resilience to these impacts.” not plan to pursue a career with the organi- C much of the country as she could. Crook, who studied abroad in Costa Rica, zation. “Panama is such a small country, but it’s says that when she and Stuart were working as ¨I want to go work in developing countries, incredible how diverse it is and how many student recruiters for International Programs I want to work directly with local communi- culture things there are to do there,” Stuart says. “I and not discussing the weather, they swapped ties, and I want to educate people on how to was traveling almost every weekend just in stories from their time spent abroad. Panama and I never got bored of anything.” “Lauren loved telling me about how her See STUART, page 41 On one outing, she visited an indigenous experiences in Panama shaped By Ian Tramm shock community in the rainforest in an area ac- the path for her education and cessible only by canoe. Because of the ex- fueled her passion for work- Lauren Stuart recalls how her study-abroad tended dry season, however, the area was in a ing on the social impacts of experiences in Panama and Latin America drought; the river was so low that their group the weather in other coun- prepared her for any difficult situations to come had to get out of the canoes and carry them tries,” Crook says. up the river. Stuart recently spent three It was in that moment, deep in the Pana- months doing a work place- In fact, Zoë Crook, a program coordina- Stuart says. ¨My number one choice was to ence change my life and see where it takes manian jungle, Stuart remembers thinking, ment in Germany with the tor for International Programs, was an FSU go to Valencia for the entire twelve months, me,¨ she says. ¨I think having that kind of “Wow, meteorology isn’t just calculus and United Nations Framework student and co-worker of Stuart’s, both hired but after looking a bit closer at the classes mindset going into it helped me adapt much physics and science. It’s something that im- Convention on Climate at the same time to market study abroad pro- that were offered I realized Panama would be better to the situation.” pacts every aspect of society, and these peo- Change as part of the Ad- grams around campus. Crook remembers the better fit for me. They offer a lot more Once in Panama and adjusted, Stuart ple are facing serious consequences of being aptation Framework, spe- Stuart “pouring herself into her meteorol- chemistry and physics—classes that I had to faced an entirely new set of issues, which cut off completely from society because it’s cifically with the Loss and ogy degree” at FSU. take my freshman year as prerequisites for include missing the comforts of home, miss- not raining.” Damage team. Essentially, “I have never met anyone who is so ob- the meteorology program.” ing her family, her favorite foods, “just the Stuart also recalls the moment as one that she is involved with a num- sessed with the weather,” Crook says with en- Just like that, without so much as a second little things in general,” she says. She also had altered her career trajectory. She still loves ber of projects to reduce thusiasm for her friend’s commitment. “When thought, Stuart left everything and everyone to deal with brazen instances of catcalling. meteorology, she says, but as of October losses and damages that are she wasn’t studying for her meteorology class- she knew behind for Panama. But it certainly “I couldn’t ever walk out the front door a result of climate change in es, she was updating her friends about the wasn’t easy for her. without having a man whistling at me,” Stu- developing countries. forecast, monitoring extreme weather condi- Adapting to life in a new country can be art says. “I had a guy literally stick his head Opposite page: Stuart snaps a photo ¨The UN very heavily re- tions around the country, or talking about her difficult for anyone. Just moving somewhere out the car window as he was driving so he while seated in a canoe floating down lies on interns to function be- experiences at weather camp.” new is a stressful process, and having to ad- could start howling at me like a wolf and a river in the dense Panamanian cause they don’t have a huge Stuart’s entire family graduated from just to a new culture and foreign customs can then run off the side of the road because he jungle. budget, and because they rely FSU, so she was “born and raised a Nole.” quickly become overwhelming. wasn’t paying attention.” so heavily on them they really Her grandfather David Stuart was, for a For Stuart, however, this challenge was She learned to adapt and deal with that Right: Stuart rests on a tree in front of just throw you in there,¨ Stu- time, the director of the meteorology de- one she actively sought out. Although she situation, she said, and her other experiences a waterfall in Boquete, Panama. art says about her time with partment at FSU. says she didn’t face any particularly major were more enlightening. All photos courtesy of Lauren Stuart NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 28 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 29 Climb aboard for trips out of town Valencian architecture: the old and the new More insights from Professor Salazar and these paintings were covered until If you plan to explore other Spanish cities about the Valencia Cathedral: around five years ago….The cathedral during your time abroad, you most likely will Holy Grail from Jesus Christ’s Last By Madeline Hoffman has many mysteries in multiple places find yourself at Valencia’s main railway sta- Supper is kept there. The orientation of the cathedral is sup- . . . It is a medieval building, and like tion, Estació del Nord, located a mile away The Roman Catholic structure lorida State University stu- posed to be east-west, but it is slightly any other Gothic cathedral it has all of from the FSU study centers. Watch the sta- combines architectural styles from dents and faculty who travel changed in the case of Valencia, and these symbols like animals, devils, im- tion come to life as both locals and tourists Gothic to Baroque and Neo-classi- abroad to study and teach in that is because the cathedral is built on ages to be scared of, representations of file in and out of the ticket lines to catch cal, including Romanesque and Re- Valencia encounter view after top of the main mosque of Valencia…. the sins, the saints; you have the chapel their train, as the sound of sweet hellos and Fview of great architecture through- naissance elements. The cathedral Valencia was an Islamic city with thou- of the Holy Grail, you have the chains saddened goodbyes fill the air. was built between 1252 and 1482 on out their daily lives in the Spanish sands of people . . . and when Christians that one of the kings of the Aragon Considered the main train station in Va- the site of the main mosque Mezqui- crown recovered from the high power coastal city. conquered the city they destroyed the lencia, compared to the newer, high-speed ta de Balansyia, directly after the Re- in the south of France and given to the Two structures in particular, the Muslim mosque, and very soon after Joaquín Sorolla Station, Estació del Nord is a conquista of the then-predominant- cathedral as a present. Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of they began to build the new cathedral. “perfect example” of Modernist architecture ly Islamic state. In 1262, Bishop An- The cathedral is the absolute center the Assumption of Our Lady of The main tower, El Miguelete, the within the city, Salazar says, due to the “de- drés de Albalat laid the cornerstone big bell tower of the cathedral, was not of the Christian culture within Valen- Valencia―commonly known as Saint pictions of cultural elements that are key to of the building. present at the beginning of the cathe- cia. When the Christians conquered the Mary’s Cathedral or Valencia Ca- Valencia, such as steamboats, trains, orang- According to sacred-destinations. dral. Another smaller tower was built, city from the Muslims, the cathedral thedral―and Estació del Nord (the es,” with the latter being the most commonly com, the cathedral encompasses then destroyed, so the cathedral was was the first thing they put all of their North Station) will likely be on the known produce of the city. “unusual open arcades around the built and re-built and has gone through interest and energy into. It’s the only frequently visited list. Built between 1906 and 1917 by Valen- northeast-oriented aspe [that] recall multiple transformations. The central building that we have of that size from Valencia has beautiful beaches, a cian architect Demetrio Ribes, the “Sezesión the Roman Colosseum. The portal area of the cathedral, you have paint- the Middle Ages, so it’s huge because great summer climate, and unique Vienesa” style of the interior and exterior on the north transept, Puerta de los ings of angels playing different musical they put all of the money and all of the neighborhoods with their rich his- of the station offers insight into Valencia’s Apóstoles, is richly decorated with instruments from the Renaissance era, resources at the time into the cathedral. tories. The sights, shapes, and styles culture. In addition to the oranges, the front Gothic sculpture and a 14th-century of buildings in the city, though, give facade of the station is covered in other Va- rose window, while the entrance por- sightseers with a passion for architec- 1437, and can be viewed in a dark, simple “More important than distinguishing lencian elements, such as traditional houses tal is lavishly Baroque.” The primar- ture something else to rave about. In stone chapel in the corner of the cathedral.” whether the Holy Grail here in Valencia Ca- known as baraccas, lakes, and women de- Photo by Teaghan Skulszki ily Gothic interior excels in the qual- addition to the cathedral and the train Salazar, professor of archaeology at FSU thedral is real or not real is the impact it has picted in customary Valencian style dresses. Valencia Cathedral´s main entrance, located in the ity of its religious and artistic relics. station, Valencians boast about the Valencia and a native Valencian, says while had on the followers and believers of Chris- Not only is the North Train Station known Plaza de la Reina. The cathedral houses notable trea- Central Market and the City of Arts the cup housed there is from the first cen- tianity in Valencia,” he says. “The church for its architectural beauty, its location is con- sures such as its tube-like 14th-cen- and Sciences as well as an abundance tury, the gold ornaments around the cup are created a successful narrative that the people venient, directly next to the bullring, Plaza del tury lanterns, the main silver altarpiece, and of architectural styles and elements that leave study centers and next to the Valencia Cathe- not. Christian relics such as this one were in believe to be true, and that belief brings Toros, and 200 meters from city hall. The at- numerous paintings from artists including visitors in awe. dral. Whether spending cheques wisely at a high demand during the medieval ages, and them together.” traction was declared a Cultural Heritage site Valencian Juan Segura de Lago, Madrid-born According to FSU Professor Juan Salazar, paella dinner with friends, enjoying the per- “everyone would say they had the ‘original.’” El Miguelete, the cathedral’s impressive in 1987, making it a relevant building in and Fernando Chueca, and two from Goya. Ac- though, the Valencia Cathedral and Estació formances entertainers put on in the plaza, While he does not think the Valencia Ca- Gothic octagonal bell tower, is the tall- of itself within Spanish architecture. cording to oral tradition, however, the most del Nord are smart choices to highlight be- or tossing a coin into the fountain for good thedral has the real Holy Grail, he believes est and one of the most visited religious When studying or teaching abroad in Va- significant historical relic of Christianity is cause they date back to two “golden ages” luck, the location offers a stunning view of the “sacred relic” serves as a means to bring monuments in Valencia. Its 207-step climb lencia, if you stay close to “home” and the stored deep in the cathedral as well. of Valencia, with the cathedral from the 14th the cathedral. Christians from near and far to Valencia, say- to the top offers spectacular views of the Plaza de la Virgen or travel to other cities in The holy chalice, used at the Last Supper to century and the station from the 20th century. Located in the heart of Valencia, the cathe- ing some people travel hundreds of miles to old town, which is dotted with blue-roofed Spain or throughout Europe, you will expe- serve wine and commonly known as the Holy dral’s main entrance is actually approximately see the shrine. churches. rience two of Valencia’s architectural gems. A landmark you can’t miss 500 feet south of Plaza de la Virgen, in Plaza Grail, is purportedly kept in the cathedral. A During their stay in Valencia, students de la Reina. The cathedral is considered one Rough Guide to Spain states the chalice “has likely will spend time in the lively Plaza de of the most prominent landmarks in Va- been enshrined How to get the best out of your visit to the la Virgen, located lencia, as well as the religious center of the in the cathe- Valencia Cathedral, the tallest and one of near the FSU city. Some people even believe that the dral since the most-visited religious monuments in Quick the city: Climb the 207 steps to the top of El Miguelete, right, the cathedral’s renowned bell-tower, prior to 7 p.m., and feel the power of the bell as it strikes tip while watching the sunset—a truly unforgettable experience. Also worthwhile For future FSU Valencia is a visit to the cathedral’s museum, which students and instructors holds a collection of paintings and a 2,300-kg monstrance made of gold, silver, Photo by Madeline Hoffman By Madeline Hoffman and jewels donated by Valencians. Valencia´s North Train Station shot in the midst of the city´s midday hustle and bustle. Photo by Madeline Hoffman NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 30 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 31 icente Blasco Ibáñez, who “Well, [he] has a very close eye to describe Valencian Sorolla § graduated with a law degree the rural life, the problems facing everyday but never practiced, was a people in the 19th century,” Alvarez says. journalist, politician, and most “He deals with more issues of economics visionaries: notably,V a writer, born in Valencia in 1867. and social development. So basically, it’s not blasco Ibáñez Alongside running his newspaper, El what you read on the surface at the level of Interestingly, Sorolla and Ibáñez were contemporaries and friends, By Rachel Dranetz Pueblo, which aroused much political con- plot that makes his work interesting.” both having been born in Valencia in the 1860s and beginning their troversy during its time, Ibáñez was well Ibáñez was more than just a novelist, both pain is a country bursting with cultural vibrancy and histori- careers there. Sorolla even painted a portrait of Blasco Ibáñez, and known for his literary works. He was im- to Valencia and to Spanish culture. For ex- cal richness. Students at FSU Valencia often sample many of some of their most famous works are grounded in the people, poli- prisoned several ample, at first glance, Cañas y Barro is cen- Spain’s major cultural and historical treasures when they travel tics, and landscape of the region. Today, one of Valencia’s train sta- times for his po- tered on a generational conflict between a to Madrid, Barcelona, and Granada. Yet students are some- tions is named for Sorolla, and one of Valencia’s biggest streets is Image courtesy of Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia litical activities, father and son in 19th-century Valencia. But Stimes unaware that Valencia also has world-class cultural and his- named for Blasco Ibáñez. and he eventually underlying the surface plot, Ibáñez uses this torical treasures of its own, including two of its most famous sons: Shedding light on the contributions of Sorolla and Blasco Ibáñez Sorolla’s “Mending the Sail” is an oil left Spain for Ar- story to share his discourse for more trou- the painter Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida and the writer Vicente Blasco are two FSU professors: art expert Carrie Ann Baade and Spanish painting on canvas, finished by the gentina and then bling things that were happening during this Ibáñez. literature expert Enrique Alvarez. artist in 1896. France, where he time period, including Spain’s changing atti- died in 1928. He tude toward economics and modernization. Sorolla sketched the image pled light and elaborate folds in this im- is buried in Va- “Cañas y Barro is also about changing on the left for a poster meant mense sail—a process so precious the whole lencia. techniques in agriculture,” Alvarez says. for the newspaper El Pueblo, household is involved,” Baade says. Vicente Blasco Ibáñez’s “It is about the process of modernization which is the Another favorite Sorolla work for Baade is Blasco Ibáñez most critically ac- in Spain. It is a fierce critique of the Span- publication “Eating on the Boat,” a painting on display claimed works ish colonial history—because the novel was Blasco Ibáñez at the Museum at the San Fernando Royal were written early in his career and set in released during the Cuban war. It’s about founded. The Academy of Fine Arts. in the Valencia region. They include Flor de how the Spanish soldiers were mistreated, inset image “It is hard to say when a painting will re- Mayo (The Mayflower), La Barraca (The Hut), because they were conscripts; that means is a close-up ally grab you and change your life, but I was Entre Naranjos (Between the Orange Trees), and they were the sons of very poor peasants of the piece not expecting the impact of this work in per- Canas y Barro (Reeds and Mud). that were being conscripted and sent to where Sorolla son,” Baade says. “I honestly burst into tears Some of his later works were adapted fight for Spain overseas. And then when dedicated it to Blasco Ibáñez. on seeing this painting. I felt like I was on this into Hollywood films, including The Four they returned home they were completely Photos by Rachel Dranetz boat with these men as they eat their bread. I Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Blood and Sand, marginalized, and this is the story being told could see the character and humanity in the and Mare Nostrum. in Cañas y Barro.” lines of their faces and their hunger.” Associate Professor Enrique Alvarez, A look at the painting makes it easy to un- who teaches on the Tallahassee campus derstand what she means. The image is raw and at FSU Valencia, is a specialist in 20th with emotion and purpose, capturing the century Spanish poetry with research inter- oaquin Sorolla produced around 2,000 influenced by his life in Valencia. Common humbling feeling of peasant life. Through- ests in Spanish literary and cultural studies. paintings in his lifetime (1863-1923), themes among his paintings include fishing, out Sorolla’s work, there’s a distinct aura “I became acquainted with Blasco Ibáñez Jand his works are displayed in muse- sailing, and the beach—all of which are in- of humanity—a humanity that transcends when I was a student in high school, re- ums throughout the world, including spired by the coastal city of Valencia. Sorolla background, location, and social class, sim- ally, because Blasco Ibáñez is one of the the Metropolitan Museum in New York, the paintings also depict the everyday lives of ply because at the end of the day we are all staple names of Spanish literature in the Musee d’Orsay in Paris, the Prado in Madrid, ordinary people—people who had to work human beings who cry and sweat and love. 19th century,” says Alvarez, who grew up and the National Portrait Gallery in London. hard in order to feed their families and whose Photo by Rachel Dranetz in northern Spain. Associate Professor Carrie Ann Baade, livelihoods heavily relied on the ocean. Sorolla’s “Marina” (above) captures a “But I insist, although he was a Valen- who has taught two summers at FSU Valen- Baade applies her expertise in artistic tech- beach scene typical to Valencia. cian writer, he was—he is—a major name cia, is an admirer of Sorolla’s works. Baade nique when she teaches about Sorolla. “The in 19th century Spanish literature,” Alvarez herself is an internationally exhibited artist painting that I refer to most when lecturing is says. “So he transcends the limits of the whose research focuses on genre develop- ‘Mending the Sail,’ ” she say. “This is an epic region, as far as his writing is concerned.” ment, as well as on materials and techniques work that features so many types of grays in Sorolla’s A noteworthy thing about Blasco used by previous historical artists. the display of light. I like to show students “Two Sisters, Ibáñez’s work isn’t just his enchanting way “I went to undergrad at the School of the this piece because of the values and to show Valencia” with words, but the real life issues of his Art Institute of Chicago, and every day—no how he uses color in space.” depicts two time period that he weaves into his seem- matter how late I might be—I used to walk Baade details how Sorolla used warm col- young girls ingly fictitious novels. through the museum to get to class. One the ors to advance things in his paintings and on a beach paintings I would see was the ‘Two Sisters, cool colors to make them recede. She ex- in the city of Photo courtesy of Students who would like to learn more Students who would like to view some of Valencia,’ ” Baade says. plains how things painted in the foreground Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando Valencia. “Two Sisters, Valencia,” which features are larger and bolder, and how things get about Blasco Ibanez can view many of his Sorolla’s paintings (albeit not his most famous Sorolla painted “Eating on the personal objects and literary works at the works) can visit Fine Arts Museum San Pio two girls walking along the beach, along with grayer as they approach the background. Image courtesy of Boat,” an oil on canvas, in 1898. many other of Sorolla’s works, is heavily “He masterfully arranges all of the dap- Art Institute Blasco Ibañez Museum House on the Mal- V, which is just a short walk from the FSU of Chicago varrosa Beach in Valencia. Valencia Study Center. NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 32 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 33 Museo del Corpus Casa de las Rocas Steps from Florida State Valencia’s Gar- net study center, the Museo del Corpus Casa de las Rocas displays carriages, costumes, and various other props used in the Corpus Christi fiesta. The Corpus Christi parade is one of Valencia’s oldest traditions. Approximately 300 residents take part in the parade, which does a circuit around El Carmen, Valencia’s old town. The first floor of the museum houses the Rocas, or carriag- es, that are pulled in the parade and are de- signed to be mobile stages. The 10 carriages are massive and incredibly intricate, each one made from carved wood, depicting animals

and biblical scenes in great detail. The carv- Photo courtesy of Toy Soldier Museum ings are also painted, stained, or accented with gold leaf. Toy Soldier Museum visitors can purchase figurines from the gift shop. Also featured on the museum’s first floor sembled and procured the collection over park depicts a scene from the novel when are the Nanos (dwarves) and Gegants (gi- the course of 20-plus years. Unfortunately, Gulliver has washed ashore on the island ants). Nanos are oversized wooden heads Giménez passed away just one year before country of Lilliput and finds himself pris- Fallas from past festivals, exhibited that participants wear during the parade, the museum opened in 2007, and his chil- oner of the Lilliputians. at the Museo Fallero and Gegants are large wooden figurines. On dren now manage the collection. Commissioned by the city of Valencia in the second and third floors, visitors to the FSU Valencia staff member and Valencia 1990, artist Manolo Martin, designer Josep Photo by Marc Hollingsworth museum, which was built in the 15th cen- native Maria Sierra worked for Giménez in Vicent “Sento” Llobell Bisbal, and architect tury, will find a well-preserved selection of the late 1980s while she was in high school, Rafal Rivera created Parque Gulliver. The By Marc Hollingsworth from March 12 to March 19 in commemoration of Saint the various traditional outfits and garments prepping and painting the figurines by hand. statue of Gulliver is a giant playground in Joseph, the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the worn in the parades. “Giménez truly had a passion for his col- disguise, with hidden steps, ropes, and in- alencia, Spain teems with culture brought on by a foster father of Jesus. He is the patron saint of many Chris- “Valencia’s Corpus Christi festival oc- lection,” Sierra says. clines that provide access to the many levels mix of religion and tradition, historic sites, beauti- tian denominations, unborn children, fathers, immigrants, curred while we were here for the Summer L’Iber Museo de Los Soldaditos de Plomo is open and slides. Visitors will feel like Lilliputians as ful street art, and lavish festivals. Some of these and workers. II session, and the museum provided an ex- Saturday from 11:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 they climb in and around the giant structure. traditions, such as the Fallas or Corpus Christi, In the weeks leading up to the festival, hundreds of Ninots tended look at the history of the festival,” p.m. to 7:00 p.m and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to “Gulliver Park is massive and has to be Vtrace their roots as far back as the city’s beginnings. are made, poking fun at and providing social commentary FSU senior Ross Fleming says. 2:00 p.m. The museum stops letting in visitors about seen in person,” FSU senior Ian Goldberger Students studying abroad and other visitors can learn about issues in Spain and around the world. Well organized and multi-leveled, the 30 minutes before closing time, so be sure to plan says. He recommends looking at the park more about the history of these festivals and sites by visit- The museum houses about 100 Fallas and Ninots from Museo del Corpus Casa de las Rocas is ahead. Admission is three euros with student ID, from the nearest bridge to get a true idea of ing some of these less-frequented attractions. past years, ones saved from burning. The museum also ex- packed to the brim with a rich history of one and five euros for non-students. Address: Calle Ca- the statue’s size. hibits the history of the construction of the Ninots and of Valencia’s greatest festivities. balleros 20-22 / Phone: 963 91 86 75 Parque Gulliver is a quick bus ride, bike Museo Fallero how that process has changed over time. Museo del Corpus Casa de las Rocas is open ride, or taxi from Torres de Serranos and is Museo Fallero is a multi-level collection of some popular The Fallas is one of the most important festivals in Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gulliver Park well worth the visit. Fallas and Ninots from the city’s annual Fallas Festival. Valencia, and the Museo Fallero does a wonderful job at and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays 9:30 a.m. to 3 Located across the street from Museo Fal- Paque Gulliver is open daily from 10 a.m. to Ninots (puppets or dolls), lifelike figures made from capturing and displaying the extravagance of the festivities. p.m. Free entry for all. Address: Calle de las Roacas lero and nestled in the Turia Gardens, Parque 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 9 p.m. Entry is free, and wood, cardboard, paper, foam, and plaster, Museo Fallero is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through 3 / Phone: 963 15 31 56 Gulliver is a giant concrete statue of Lem- there are bathrooms, vending machines, and water are mounted on Fallas to complete Saturdays, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays. Entry is uel Gulliver, the title character of Jonathan fountains on site. Address: Jardín del Turia, s/n / structures that are burned dur- 1 euro with a valid student ID. Address: Plaza L’Iber Museo de Los Soldaditos de Plomo Swift’s fictional tale, Gulliver’s Travels. The Phone: 963 37 02 04 ing the festival. Monteolivete 4 / Phone: 963 52 54 78 Centrally located minutes from the FSU Valencia’s Fallas festival study centers, the L’Iber Museo de Los Sol- is held each year Unique taxi driver will lift your spirits daditos de Plomo exhibits thousands of Headed to Parque Gulliver or the Museo Fallero miniature lead figurines. Spread across 17 by taxi in Valencia? Hop on Facebook and contact permanent installations, the museum houses the Unique Taxi Driver, Giuseppe Esposito (right, over 95,000 figurines, most of which are sol- with the article’s author), one of the happiest taxi diers. drivers in Spain. The hand-painted figurines tell some of “I want to spread happiness and show people Spain’s history, represent various battles, and Photo by Marc Hollingsworth Marc by Photo why I love Valencia,” says Esposito, as he breaks even reference pop culture. The artistic intri- the out of the mold of what a traditional taxi driver cacy of the figurines will wow visitors, and Offbeat in Valencia Offbeat in is supposed to offer. the sheer number of figures assembled in He will get you to your destination, feed you Valencia’s history, appreciation for festivals, and a The massive Gulliver Park, each display is amazing. snacks, and play you classical music with the big- located in Turia Gardens The late Álvaro Noguera Giménez, a gest smile you’ve ever seen. nod to a literary classic offer quirky places to visit Valencian businessman and economist, as-

NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 34 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 35 ample, the public can take part in spectacular and amusing experimental demonstrations in order to learn basic scientific principles. The first floor is for technology lovers and A city within a city houses exhibits such as “Techno Revolu- tion” and “A highway behind the wall sock- Valencia’s stunning showcase of arts and sciences et,” where users learn about electricity and the electric supply process. Also on the first The Oceanogràfic, the Príncipe Felipe Sci- Hemisfèric Article and photos by Alyssa Blanco floor is one of the longest pendulums in the ence Museum, and the Hemisfèric, which The Hemisfèric was built to house the world, which is mesmerizing to watch. in 1998 was the first building opened to the IMAX cinema dome and is designed to rep- must-see collection of buildings is History buffs will find interest in the public, are the three main buildings. The oth- resent a huge human eye, the eye of wisdom. located in Valencia for anyone vis- second floor, which is devoted to “The ers are the Palace of the Arts Reina Sofía, This symbolizes visitors seeing the world iting the city, but especially Florida Legacy of Science,” an audiovisual exhibit L’Umbracle, and the Àgora, which don’t re- through the spectacular films shown on the State University students who are about the lives of three Nobel Laureates in Astudying abroad. The beautiful Ciutat de las quire tickets to visit and are used mostly for IMAX screen. Medicine: Santiago Ramón y Cajal, Severo public events. The Assut do l’Or Bridge runs In the summer of 2017, they played the Arts y las Ciencies, or, the City of Arts and Ochoa, and Jean Dausset. between the Àgora and Oceanogràfic and the films Walking with Dinosaurs, Journey to Mars, Sciences, stands out along the southeastern The third floor is for science geeks and is other buildings. and Secret Ocean. When you buy your ticket, edge of the Turia Gardens, approximately home to “Chromosome Forest,” with nearly All together, surrounded by a gorgeous you select which film you would like to see. 2.5 miles from FSU’s study centers. 28,000 square feet devoted to one of the pool of blue water, these structures make up Whether you want to watch a dolphin biggest milestones in modern science, the Students studying at FSU Valencia in summer 2017 enjoy the group trip to the La Ciutat. show or take a stroll through a chromosome The museum’s motto is sequencing of human DNA. A large-scale Oceanogràfic. forest, the cultural and architectural complex reproduction of the 23 pairs of chromo- has something for everyone. Oceanogràfic Forbidden not to touch, somes of the human species is exhibited, seum, they are encouraged to be hands-on this space in June 2017 to celebrate the 20th “It’s iconic to Valencia,” says Paula Acos- The Oceanogràfic is the largest aquarium in and around each one, an interactive display and are submerged into every exhibit. Acos- anniversary of Valencia’s beginning with In- ta, FSU Valencia’s cultural program director. Europe, with 1,200,000 square feet of space. not to feel, not to think. engages visitors to learn more information ta, who lives in Valencia and has worked for ternational Programs. “It is important for students to see it.” “The Oceanogràfic was my favorite . . . relative to that gene. FSU’s study-abroad program since April The Àgora, yet another separate building, The striking white buildings are located there was so much to see including a dolphin Walking into the dome is surreal: as you Also on the third floor is the dinosaur area, 2017, says the “really cool experiments” are is a multi-purpose event space that can also on the right bank of the final stretch of show, which was amazing,” FSU student take your seat, the screen surrounds you. where students can discover how geologists her favorite part. From simple touch displays be used for exhibits. Together, these three what was once the Turia, a river that flowed Kelly Keith says. “We also got to see wal- The imagery is breathtaking and you can and paleontologists try to reconstruct the to a virtual reality simulator, you can engage unique buildings add to the visual “wow” through the city. After a catastrophic flood ruses playing together which is something watch the films in your native language with world from 250 million years ago. with so many fun displays in the museum, factor of the area. in 1957, the Spanish government diverted I’ve never seen before.” the headphones they give to each viewer. “The layout of the exhibits and archi- you actually forget you’re learning. Even if you’re just passing through, La the river and turned the greenspace into a Each part of the aquarium represents the Hemisfèric also turns into a planetarium tecture was really impressive,” FSU student Ciutat is surrounded by a shallow pool and gorgeous park that spans 10 kilometers. different main marine ecosystems of the for visitors to enjoy every Tuesday and Marc Hollingsworth says. Arts palace, L’Umbracle, and Àgora you can rent a kayak or blow-up hamster ball Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Mod- world. Walking through here is like taking Thursday evening. From the moment visitors enter the mu- The arts palace has separate areas that host to roll around the water. It’s always nice to ernist architecture define the majority of a journey across the world via aquatic eco- operas and other musi- watch kids and adults alike enjoying them- Valencia’s buildings, especially those near systems. Príncipe Felipe Science Museum cal performances. selves and having fun. the FSU study centers and in the city cen- The Oceanogràfic offers an array of activ- The Príncipe Felipe Science Museum is L’Umbracle, a sepa- Walking up to La Ciutat is an experience ter. When arriving to La Ciutat, however, ities, such as meeting the animals up close, a designed for interactive and entertaining rate building, is an in itself to see the stunning architecture. Af- visitors immediately see how different these 4D movie, and even sleeping with sharks, an ways for visitors to engage with exhibits. open-aired art gallery ter exploring what La Ciutat has to offer, it buildings are from anywhere else. overnight adventure held in the shark tunnel. The motto is “Forbidden not to touch, not that offers panoramic is clear that the goal here is to have visitors Spanish architects Santiago Calatrava, who During the summer session, the FSU Va- to feel, not to think.” views of the whole wanting to participate and to leave them was born in Valencia, and Félix Candela de- lencia team offers a night trip the aquarium, Some exhibits are seasonal but a wide complex. FSU used wanting more. signed the modern-looking Ciutat de las Arts which includes seeing the dolphin show. range of activities are offered y las Ciencies, which shine in beautiful con- With sharks, penguins, crocodiles, and year-round in experimental trast against traditional city buildings. It’s easy more, an exciting animal is waiting to be classrooms. In “Science here to forget that you’re even in Valencia. discovered around ev- on Stage,” for ex- Calatrava and Candela wanted to create ery corner. an almost futuristic feeling to show that La Ciutat is all about the present day. Opposite page: The buildings of La Ciutat as seen from a bridge overlooking the complex.

Above: Part of an art exhibit in the pool outside L’Umbracle.

Right: People enjoying the activities in the water surrounding La Ciutat.

NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 36 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 37 since become a fixture. Quigley from page 7 The Olympics are obvi- Alexander from page 11 ously the most public and than those of her track team. visible event she runs in, but hosted by Brian Stelter. The job is the perfect “I was really hard on myself about run- they are far from the only combination of Alexander’s skills. ning,” she says. “I wanted to be the best I one. As daunting as those 35 “It’s really great for me because it uses my could be. I remember getting stressed out days in Valencia must have experiences of being an avid media consum- if I couldn’t hit workout times, and my dad felt at the time, they were er and analyzing other media, and just put- would always be the one to tell me ‘Hey, it’s excellent preparation for life ting [that analysis] in [the] context of the big just running. It’s not the end of the world. on the professional circuit. stories of the day,” Alexander says. This one workout won’t make or break you.’ Now she spends roughly six These days, Reliable Sources is perhaps more He always had a level head about things months a year away from relevant than ever. Stelter and his team re- when I was emotional.” her home in Portland, either search and report on major happenings from Family has always played a huge role in training or competing. various partisan perspectives. Alexander ac- Quigley’s life. Being homeschooled from a In late July 2017, Quigley knowledges that trust in the media is low and young age meant that her parents had to fill was training in Switzerland that there is need for media literacy. a variety of roles: role model, teacher, coach, to prepare for the Interna- He believes that is exactly what Reliable counselor, therapist, trainer, to name several. tional Amateur Athletic Fed- Sources provides: “We try to parse [the con- But she believes that their most important eration (IAAF) world cham- text of where you’re getting your news from] so that you know what is a reliable source contribution to her success, both on the pionships, which took place Alexander with Laura Ingram, a student in the London program when he was a and what isn’t a reliable source.” track and in the classroom, was the ability to in London in August. It was Photo courtesy of Colleen Quigley graduate counselor. use failure as a motivator. a big stage, but she felt she Quigley (third from left) celebrates with teammates, The hope is that the viewer, through “I was just as hard on myself in school,” was more prepared this year after FSU won the 2014 Outdoor ACC Track and Field watching Stelter’s analysis of media cover- “The media’s job isn’t to reinforce or insulate Alexander says that “this is a time to hear she says. “I would get pissed off if I couldn’t than ever before. Championship. age, will have a better understanding of the people’s ideas; it’s to expose them to differ- more voices, not fewer,” a time for people of do things as well as I wanted. ‘It’s OK to “This being my third na- nuances of the news. ent viewpoints and different ideas.” differing backgrounds to be open rather than make mistakes, Colleen. That’s how you tional team, I feel a lot stronger—more con- “It’s good to, at least for one hour a For him, that’s one of the most exciting as- resistant to others’ ideas and takes on events. learn.’ They told me that about a million fident. It’s a whole different ball game,” she her a qualifying bid in the final. But after the week,” Alexander says, “have a moment pects of his job: that he can make an impact However, this openness can only be devel- times. I hated that phrase because I didn’t says. “I didn’t have to compete in [NCAA race, the IAAF reviewed footage and found where you [the viewer] can say, ‘OK, so on real people, regarding real stories that mat- oped through experience—of new people, understand that it’s OK to fail.” championships] this year, so I feel like I’m in that Quigley had stepped on the line dis- what did we get right this week, and what ter to them, and stories that matter to him. of new places, of new ways of life. Studying But all their coaching and guidance paid much better shape.” tinguishing the infield from the first lane— did we get wrong? And what lessons can we “It’s nice to feel like you have a role in shap- abroad provides the opportunity to cultivate off. Quigley graduated from Florida State Unfortunately, things did not go as expect- grounds for an automatic disqualification. learn from what’s happened?’” ing how we talk about or frame and commu- these new connections. in 2015 with a degree in dietetics. She made ed for Quigley during the London event. She In the blink of an eye, excitement turned Alexander believes those moments of re- nicate stories that matter to you,” he says. While abroad, students can follow Alex- her first national team that summer, and has placed third in her preliminary heat, earning to heartbreak. It was an unfortunate way to flection are crucial at a time when partisan Part of what you learn from studying ander’s adopted “Why not?” motto to de- end the season. media can spin a news story to fit their plat- abroad is that stories that matter to you often velop a greater understanding of the world But true to her father’s teachings and her form or their target demographic. matter to many other people, and that those around them. own nature, Quigley found a way to spin a “This is an environment where people people have interesting, thoughtful perspec- In doing so, they can create stories to last negative into a positive and shifted the fo- want to go to their media safe places and tives on important subjects. Given the vari- a lifetime. Stories that matter. Stories that cus to her teammates, Emma Coburn and have their views reinforced,” Alexander says. ety of stories being told in the news today, should be told. Courtney Frerichs, who finished first and second, respectively. She made the following tweets after the final: hen Lee Alexander first arrived in London as a tant, I was certain he would do well in the position.

Wstudent, I remember him as quietly very enthusi- When he returned to the London program as a col- astic about all the city and the FSU London Program of- league in the office, all my impressions of him as a fered. His lively interest was so obvious. He approached student were confirmed. Lee was committed to help- every opportunity with open-minded happy curios- ing the students have as positive and rich an experi- ity. He was ence as his own. He took pleasure in introducing From the desk on the theater them to the multifaceted world of London theater so program, and they knew there was a lot more available than the ob- of Mary Balthrop his excitement vious big West End shows. He helped the students at having the learn to travel confidently to locations around Europe, world of London theater so accessible to the study as he had done, by advising them on every aspect of center was an absolute pleasure to observe. trip planning. As a London program student, Lee shared his love of I’m really proud of Lee and all he’s accomplished. London theater and newfound enthusiasm for the city I’m also extremely grateful to him for generously Photo courtesy of Colleen Quigley The result wasn’t what she wanted, but Quig- itself freely and often with staff, faculty, and his fellow sharing his love of London and travel with me, our Quigley (second from left) with friends in Pamplona, Spain for the annual San ley still did her university and her country students. So when he applied to be a program assis- coworkers, and the program students. Fermin Festival. proud with the way she conducted herself. NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 38 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 39 Kylie Augsten, a senior from Jacksonville, Tramm calls it, for him, it’s quite the opposite. Humans from page 13 was in Europe for her first time and adopted “It’s normal for me,” he says. “It’s odd to a “Just Do It” attitude, which included visit- be in the States where your waiter is always Not only did Seaman enjoy the lifestyle, ing Pamplona, Spain during the city’s annual checking on you or where they have those big but he got a lot of practice with his Spanish, San Fermin festival. megastores. Honestly, after moving around which was one of his goals before entering “You have to embrace it, every second of every few years, the biggest adjustment was the program. it,” Augsten says. “If you want to do some- moving from Italy to the United States.” “I take every chance I can to practice,” thing, do it. You never know when you’re go- Tramm did a lot of solo traveling while he says. “I have definitely gotten a lot better ing to have your next chance.” studying at FSU Valencia in Summer II. conversationally.” One common stereotype students are “I did this music festival a couple week- When interviewed in late July, he revealed warned about when coming to Spain is pick- ends ago called Festival International de that he was not ready to go back home and pocketing. Unfortunately, Augsten experi- Benicàssim,” he says. “I met people from that he hopes to one day move back to Spain. enced this firsthand. Yet it didn’t play out like all over the EU [European Union], and that “Every time you turn down a street, it’s the stereotype. was pretty eye-opening because I just got a another picture, it’s another view, it’s another “It’s funny because [pickpocketing] was lot of unique perspectives,” he says with a something that is different from the next the one thing my dad warned me about,” she smile as he swipes through the pictures on street over,” he says. “It just never gets old to says. “When my phone got stolen, everyone his phone. be able to walk around the same place you’ve told me it was a lost cause. When the police Tramm was planning a snowboarding trip been for five weeks and just see a new thing. called me and said someone turned my phone in France next winter with new friends he I just feel like you can never see everything, in to the station, I thought it was a miracle. met at the festival. and I just love that about it.” I’m glad I never listen to stereotypes.” “I would definitely recommend travel- ing alone if you haven’t tried it,” he says. “It teaches you independence and forces you to figure things out on your own, which is an important skill.” As for advice to people who are think- ing about studying abroad, Tramm says, “If you’re worried about not being able to afford it, or worried about having culture shock, or Photo courtesy of Sara Muñoz worried about not meeting anyone, do it. Sara Muñoz spending her weekend in Budapest, Hungary. Photo courtesy of Ian Tramm “The advantages of this program far out- Ian Tramm caught in a candid moment weigh any of the negatives. It’s such a huge studying in an American classroom meant Not only was Muñoz learning about en- at the beach in Barcelona, Spain. opportunity for you to expand your world- more than just practicing her English. trepreneurship, but she was learning about view and experience another culture and “I think it is quite interesting because American culture as well. you are getting to know a lot about the cul- “Well there is the one stereotype that you Ian Tramm is the son of a former naval make memories that are really going to affect commander whose career moved the family the rest of your life.” ture,” she says. “You [Americans] have a lot [Americans] are always eating fast food,” she all over the world, including Iceland, Italy, of ideas related to business, or you’re quite says jokingly. “I think [my American class- and Spain. Tramm, a senior English major Sara Muñoz, a University of Valencia stu- good with business, and you have a lot of mates] are really nice, and they are trying to with a concentration in creative writing, feels dent from Alicante, Spain, was taking entre- new startups that are a really good example help me with whatever I need.” for here, so I think I am learning quite a lot. Muñoz hopes to visit America one day and Photo by Ben Seaman more at home in Europe than in the U.S. preneurship classes through FSU Valencia Kylie Augsten is nothing but smiles at the Heineken Experience in Amsterdam, While some students say they have trouble in summer 2017. Entrepreneurship is a new So I am really happy, and I am also improv- learn even more about business so that she Netherlands. adapting to Spain’s “laid-back” lifestyle, as field for Spanish schools, so, for Muñoz, ing my English.” can return to Spain and start her own.

grill it costs €4.20. Market from page 17 “Since Valencia is such a clean Stuart from page 29 International Programs, after she finished She specifically talks up the Panama pro- The eatery also offers drinks and a full city, it was not surprising to me her first year in Panama and relocated to the gram, knowing how much it tested and such a clean city, it was not surprising to me menu of side items if you want to complete that the market was so clean. deal with climate change,¨ Stuart says. ¨You FSU campus in Tallahassee, Stuart encour- pushed her. that the market was so clean,” says Emily your meal. This place is highly rated on Tri- aged other students to do what she did. “I also recommended Europe, but Eu- Despite it being a very busy can´t do that at the UN behind a computer Nolan, an FSU student who studied in Va- pAdvisor, is popular with locals, and is not desk, so I don’t see myself staying at the UN “I would say ‘absolutely do it,’” she says, rope won’t push you in the same way Pana- lencia in summer 2017. “Despite it being a crazy packed with tourists. Not only can you place it was well kept.” at least in the immediate future.¨ acknowledging the costs but pointing stu- ma will,” Stuart says. “That challenge, that’s very busy place, it was well kept.” get the fresh ingredients from the market, — Emily Nolan, an FSU junior At the end of the day, she attributes much dents toward loans and scholarships. “The what is going to shape you as a person and Once you have gathered all of the food but for all those who don’t want to cook, this of her drive to work in the field to the time reality is you might not have this time again that’s what going to make this experience so you purchased from the market, there is a place will make sure you enjoy your market of Valencia and the diverse foods the region she spent in Latin America. to live and immerse yourself in another much better. restaurant right across from it called El Tro- meal. However, before you plan on going has to offer. The combination of a lively at- ¨Overall, Panama completely changed the country, so there really is no better time to “Yes, it’s going to be hard, yes, you’re go- cito del Medio, where the owners will cook there, either call or stop by to make a reser- mosphere, reasonable prices, free samples, course of my life and career goals and where do it. It will be the greatest challenge you will ing to have days when you want to quit and any meat, fish, or seafood you purchase from vation so that you can arrive with your mar- and a true taste of Spain are what make the I am now,” Stuart says. “Oh man, I could ever face, having to adapt to something so go home, but pushing through those experi- the market. For them to boil or fry what ket buys and a table all ready. Central Market special to both Valencians write a book on this. Maybe I will one day.” different and so new, but because of that it ences is what’s going to make it worth it in you’ve bought costs €2.50, and for them to The Central Market gives visitors a sense and to the visiting FSU community. During her time as a student recruiter for will be the defining experience of your life.” the end.”

NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 40 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 41 nalism. In his free time, Tramm enjoys ironically likening himself to Hemingway, About the contributors getting himself lost in new and exciting places, and pushing himself to shatter the Brittany Argote Samantha Gettis ing in media communication studies boundaries of his comfort zone. In his Originally from Miami, Argote is a junior Gettis is a junior at FSU majoring in mar- and English (EWM). With a love for immediate future, Tramm plans on enlist- at Florida State University studying crimi- keting, with minors in hospitality and hard-hitting news, she hopes to one day ing in the Peace Corps to teach English in nology and English with a concentration psychology. Her love for hospitality, writ- work in broadcast journalism and pro- Southeast Asia. in editing, writing, and media (EWM). ing, and business, complemented by her vide the public with accurate and help- After graduation, Argote plans to attend desire for a career in restaurant market- ful information. Brittany Wallace graduate school for her master’s of sci- ing/management, led her to the EWM Wallace is a senior at the Harriet L. Wil- ence in criminology, and she hopes to program in Valencia. She has interned Madison Manley kes Honors College of Florida Atlantic one day to be employed by a federal law for Bascom Communications Consult- Manley is an FSU English major (EWM) University majoring in creative writing. enforcement agency. She is an avid lover ing LLC in Tallahassee, and she will be and an aspiring double major in public After graduation, she plans to pursue a of travel, creative expression, and learn- interning with a start-up hospitality com- relations. She would like to go into the career in the publishing industry, with ing, all aspects that she hopes to continue pany and hospitality group in New York field of production or entertainment. a focus in manuscript work for fiction to incorporate into her future life. City spring 2018. When Gettis is not at When Manley isn´t studying and writing, and creative nonfiction. When she’s not school or work, find her at a dance stu- you can catch her binge watching Netflix reading Jane Eyre for the fifth time, you Alyssa Blanco dio, her home away from home. or rollerblading around Tallahassee parks. can find her watching Disney Channel Blanco is 20 years old, born and raised in Original Movies with her friends or ask- South Florida. She is majoring in digital Taylor Goggin Jessica O’Connor ing her dog, “What are you eating now?” media and minoring in computer science Goggin is a senior at FSU majoring in O’Connor is a senior at FSU majoring in at the University of Central Florida. She English (EWM), while also obtaining a English (EWM) with a double minor in enjoys technology and travel, and she minor in communications. Although un- communications and hospitality. Besides hopes to make a living involving both. sure of what career field she wishes to traveling the world, she enjoys doing pursue, her passion for writing and seek- press at music festivals with her intern- Kamille Catala ing more internships will guide her in the ship at Alternative Nation, and hopes to Originally from Davie, Florida, Catala is right direction. Goggin is a highly moti- work in entertainment broadcast jour- a junior at FSU double majoring in Eng- vated, self-directed, and relationship-ori- nalism after graduation. lish (EWM) and media/communications ented person with a thirst for learning, with a minor in film studies. Growing up, travel, and career advancement. Sarah Silva she would read books with her sister as Silva is a senior at FSU majoring in Eng- a bonding activity. She enjoys spending Madeline Hoffman lish (EWM) and minoring in communi- time with her dog Buffy, drawing, and Hoffman is a senior at FSU, majoring in cations. After graduating from FSU, she collecting films. English (EWM) and minoring in media hopes to pursue a job in public relations communications and education. After or journalism for a magazine like Vice or Rachel Dranetz graduation in spring 2018, she wants Rolling Stone. Her passions include music Advisors’ note: As anyone who has ever worked for a Dranetz is a junior at FSU, double ma- to return home to New York to pursue and travel, which she hopes to incorpo- magazine knows, not everything works out perfectly joring in English (EWM) and classical a fast-paced career within the publish- rate into her career. throughout the publishing process. On the day we civilizations. She is currently interning as ing industry as either a copy-editor or took the photograph of the students who worked in a writer for Uloop, and in her free time, a journalist. Teaghan Skulszki class to produce this magazine, Madeline Hoffman, she enjoys reading, writing, and playing Skulszki is a sophomore at FSU who is left, was not feeling well. We were not going to soccer. In the future, she aspires to be an Marc Hollingsworth majoring in English (EWM) and com- leave her out, of course, so we took one of her the editor for literary fiction. Born and raised in Orlando, Holling- munications. She is involved in water next day, in the same location, which is Valencia’s sworth is a senior at FSU, majoring in polo and is a lifeguard at FSU. She as- National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts. Carter Floyd English (EWM) and minoring in entre- pires to be a journalist in the future. Floyd is an FSU junior from Seattle ma- preneurship. Post-graduation, he hopes joring in both sport management and to turn his passion for cars into a career Ian Tramm Advisors: English (EWM). He enjoys reading, writ- writing for an automotive publication. Tramm, a senior at FSU studying English Susan Hellstrom and Jack Clifford ing, and screaming at his television dur- (creative writing) and Italian, is a 22-year- Student editors: ing football season. His ultimate goal is to Amber Lewis old aspiring writer who hopes to break Amber Lewis, Madison Manley, work in collegiate athletic administration. Lewis is a junior at FSU, double major- into the field of freelance travel -jour Sarah Silva, and Brittany Wallace

NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 42 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 43 Obrentz from page 23 “I remember watching the local Floren- “It was an amazing feeling—having that special, shared What I love about Spain . . . tines go about their daily lives around the city experience with a small group that understands and shares Text and photos by students in the summer 2017 magazine course and thinking how incredibly fortunate they the same nostalgia. The people with whom I bonded in are to be surrounded by such beauty every day,” she says. Florence remain an important part of my life today.” What I love about Spain is the stunning The food, she says, was amazing, even for — Candi Obrentz scenery“ as well as the incredible people that a picky eater like herself, adding she found it I get to admire it with. easy to eat well in Florence. the FSU study center, recently opened its tionally to this day. ”– Brittany Argote “I remember my first gnocchi al gorgon- second location in her Manhattan neighbor- Upon graduation from FSU, her mom and zola like it was yesterday,” she says. “Did I hood. Seeing the familiar logo, she says, is a stepfather gave Obrentz a round-trip ticket care that it was probably too heavy of a dish constant reminder of that summer. to any destination of her choice. There was to be eating on a hot summer night in Flor- Obrentz took three classes in Florence— one rather important condition: She was on ence? No! I tried new pastas, new sauces, an introduction to Italian course, a humani- her own financially and she had to find a job and different pizzas literally every day of the ties course, and art history—the right num- to support herself. week and I loved everything.” ber, she says, because she wanted to be out- Obrentz set out for France because She enjoyed many of the culinary delights side exploring. French was the second language she knew native to Italian culture, such as “the rich “Brilliantly, my art history class was of- best. Solo, she used her open-ended student taste of the olive oil, the nutty sharp flavors ten taught in museums and churches so that ticket to fly to Paris and traveled around a of Pecorino cheese, the scent of garlic waft- we viewed the artistic works in person as we bit with no luck finding employment. Fortu- ing from the trattorias, and of course the in- learned about them -- our textbooks came to nately, she took advantage of an offer to stay credible wine.” life,” she says. “Since I struggle to sit still in with her aunt and cousins while she searched The delicacy of the dishes she enjoyed a classroom, it was a huge bonus to learn in for a job. combined with that feeling of “being self- that manner.” A short stay led to her living in Valbonne sufficient” on her journey made each dining Sharing an experience such as studying for almost a year, during which she was experience that much more memorable. Her abroad in a country almost halfway across an au pair caring for a 13-year old girl and favorite Florence panini shop, Antico Noè, the globe can create incomparable bonds and a 10-year old boy. She had the freedom to which was located around the corner from the gift of lifelong friends. When Obrentz travel around France, Italy, Austria, Spain, arrived in Tallahassee for the fall semes- and England, which was another incredible ter of 1992, she immediately connected learning experience for Obrentz. I love the beautiful with her friends from Florence to re- When a timely job prospect arose through buildings, the Central Market, unite on the familiar grounds of FSU. her aunt’s company, the challenge of choos- “ and most of all, the jamón. The early 1990s preceded texting and ing a place to live emerged, and Obrentz be- social media, she points out, so stay- gan thinking about a possible future in New – Marc Hollingsworth” ing in touch with her classmates from York City. She wished to maintain as much as other schools meant old-school phone possible the whirlwind of exposure to many calls and making travel plans to see each cultures and lifestyles in Europe. other in person. “I love cities with abundant opportunities “It was an amazing feeling—having and rich cultures, so after living in France that special, shared experience with a and adoring Italy so very much, New York small group that understands and shares fit the bill,” says Obrentz, who has beena the same nostalgia,” Obrentz says. “The member of The Seminole Club of NYC for people with whom I bonded in Flor- over 20 years. “Moving to Manhattan made ence remain an important part of my sense for me.” life today.” Obrentz understands how the decision- making process to study abroad as an un- From Florida to Florence dergraduate is different from one student to to New York the next, but everyone who does it can find a Obrentz’s desire to continue explor- common purpose. ing after her four years at FSU stemmed “I believe that those of us who embrace from her exposure to Italian culture as the lessons learned about ourselves and oth- a young adult. Her study abroad jour- ers from experiences, like living abroad, will I loved the Plaza de la Virgen the most. Every ney brought her to the realization that be furnished with memories and tools that “time I walked by it would take my breath away, from the phrase “variety is the spice of life” enrich our lives for years to come,” she says. the first time I saw it ’til the last. holds true for her. Having the chance to Obrentz’s choice to study in Florence ig- I just love going on adventures with my fellow Noles. In Candi Obrentz, in her office in Manhattan – Teaghan Skulszki in 2017, is committed to helping others be delighted by diverse places and indi- nited her adventurous mindset and taught ” “Spain, there’s never a dull moment and there’s always new, launch their own invention ideas through viduals fueled a motivation to continue her that the world provides boundless pos- incredible places to discover. her customized advisory services business. her travels domestically and interna- sibilities if you go out in search of them. ” – Rachel Dranetz NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 44 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 45 I fell in love with the beauty of Spain, What I love about Spain . . . “like the views from Park Guell. Text and photos by students in the summer 2017 magazine course – Alyssa” Blanco

I love the wonderful I’m in love with how the modern aspects of Spain adventures FSU takes us “ have had to weave themselves into the historical sites on, and I love the wonderful “ and monuments. There is history everywhere you look, people I have been able to whether it’s at the Roman aqueduct in Segovia or in experience them with. La Plaza de la Virgen in Valencia, and modernity has – Madison Manley” respected these important sites and monuments as it has developed. It’s just the most beautiful experience to be knee-deep in the building blocks of what has made Spain the country it is today. ”– Brittany Wallace

What I love about Spain is all of the “different food and activities I have tried since I’ve been here, including surfing at a beach in I love the hidden coffee shops that Cullera. “are filled with love and culture. ” – Amber Lewis – Samantha” Gettis

What I love about Spain is the “elaborate street art hidden throughout the maze-like side streets of Valencia. – Ian ”Tramm

What I love about Spain is you can What I love most about Spain is its wealth wander“ aimlessly through the streets and be “of history, like this stained glass window in the overwhelmed with beautiful sights. Alcázar of Segovia. – Taylor” Goggin ” – Carter Floyd NOMADIC NOLES NOMADIC NOLES 46 Summer 2017 Summer 2017 47 What I love about Spain . . . Text and photos by students in the summer 2017 magazine course See more student photos on the course Instagram page, instagram.com/nomadicnoles

I love not only being able to taste the “great food, but also actually getting to make paella at one of the group activities. I definitely recommend going on those. ”– Kamille Catala What I love about Spain is living in a place so beautiful the “pictures look like a movie set. ” – Jessica O’Connor

What I love about Spain“ is no matter where I love the ability to watch the sunrise and sunset, with the best you go, you’re surrounded people, in the most beautiful city in the world. . . Nothing will ever “ by history. be able to top this experience. Thank you, Valencia. ”– Sarah Silva – Madeline” Hoffman NOMADIC NOLES 48 Summer 2017