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Vipech Bun
Year Junior
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Major Business
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Hometown Renton, WA
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Study Abroad Program OMA&D Classics Rome, Engineering Japan: Exploring the Heart of High-Tech, Rehab Medicine South Africa: Disability in Resource Limited Setting
What was your favorite part of studying abroad?
I really enjoyed immersing myself within the new culture, and all of this happens quite fast when you are studying abroad. From learning to say your first hello or thank you in the new language to actually buying something for the first time using new currency, these are experiences that reminds me that I am in a completely different country yet I am taking part in embracing these new changes.
What was your favorite meal abroad?
I had okonomiyaki for the very first time in Japan and it was pretty amazing. They are pretty much savory pan cakes mixed with cabbages, choices of meat, vegetables, and a sweet sauce slathered on top. It tasted like a giant takoyaki. Not only was the food great but it was a cultural experience sitting around the giant griddle with our legs folded as the waiter helped us to cook each okonomiyaki.
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
I really want to encourage fellow students to take advantage of being in a different country and just go explore. This seems obvious, but when you are faced with a packed day that was planned for you from when to go to class and when to eat, it is very tempting to just take a nap once you are free. As amazing as that nap might feel, you cannot make up for the missed opportunity to see the country outside of what the university has planned for you, once you walk outside of that protective bubble then you really get to experience immersion. It definitely depends on the country that you are in, but either have at least one buddy with you, or go solo if you feel comfortable because the Instagram opportunities awaits you.
What are your plans for the future?
Since I am only starting out my college experience, I have the plan to combine both business and human centered design into my majors and future career. What I value is the aspect of community and interacting with people, but at the same time being able to make a difference through my ability to be creative and solve problems. I want to get involved with accessibility design and innovating different ways those with disability or lack of accessibility interact with technology and how these issues can be changed for the better.
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