What’s your go-to coffee order?

I’m a massive coffee addict so get ready! I usually start my morning with a triple shot of espresso from my stovetop Mokka and a splash of oatmilk. Later when I’m looking for a little pick me up at a cafe, I’ll usually go for a cortado or a flat white but if I’m feeling like I really need it sometimes I go for a flat white with an extra shot of espresso! I’m working on reducing my caffeine intake but unfortunately in addition to being addicted I really just love the taste of coffee.

What’s your favorite way to waste time?

Since moving to the Hague my favorite way to waste time is to go to the beach. The Netherlands has a massive coastline which I only live 10 minutes away from by bike. All summer long I go to the beach whenever it’s sunny even if only for an hour. It’s my favourite place to read a book, listen to a podcast, or just soak up the sun. Too frequently I ignore my responsibilities when it's above 70 degrees and sunny and immediately jump on my bike and jump in the ocean. 

What is your dream car?

If you were to ask what kind of car I would want parked in my future garage, I would say….none! My dream is to never have a car payment, monthly auto lease, or own a car at all. The worry of being reliant on a car and being responsible for its upkeep has never appealed to me. On the other hand, I love the bike culture that’s so prevalent in the Netherlands and how well connected European cities are by public transportation. Not having to worry about parking when I go out to eat, or visiting a new city, or going to a friend's apartment is such a luxury to me!

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

I would tell my younger self to slow down and take time to enjoy yourself. I think when I moved to the Netherlands, I was so focused on my coursework and studying that I didn’t fully take advantage of living in Europe. Sure, it was 2020 and we were still struggling with lockdowns, travel restrictions, and quarantines, but I think there were a lot of opportunities that I turned down in favor of studying. Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s important to devote appropriate time to academics but it’s also important to familiarize yourself with the country, city, and culture that you’re living in! I was so focused on making the most of the academic opportunities I was afforded that I ignored the incredible cultural opportunities that were right in front of me.

What does Skola mean to you?

One of the things that I’m most proud of Skola is our ability to empower students to tackle their academic future. All of us on team Skola have gone through the same hurdles and challenges associated with leaving the United States to study, but we’ve also reaped the rewards! I’m so excited to be able to share all of the tips, recommendations, and countless hours of research that Skola has prepared to help students just like high school me tackle the next step in their academic journey!