Blogger
Cynthia
Cynthia's Bio
Cynthia resides in Tennessee, and is currently a 21-year-old senior at Middle Tennessee State University studying in Budapest, Hungary. Are you ready to read her stories? Because she's ready to tell them:
"I can't wait to take everyone along on my journey through the heart of central Europe! From glorious scenery, fascinating foreign friends, country-hopping adventures, brilliant historical landmarks, or even the frustrating mishaps that come with any worthwhile experience, I am ready to tell all!"
If you want to learn more about Cynthia before you read more about her adventure, read the following question and answer session we had with her:
What is the aspect of your upcoming semester that makes you most excited?
It would be nearly impossible to pinpoint a single aspect that has my heart fluttering about this upcoming semester! Actually, I have been so busy with finals and work the past three weeks that leaving for Hungary seems surreal. However, I must say, I am most excited about all of the interesting people I am going to encounter! This past semester I met the bulk of exchange students at my university. I noticed a pattern as I befriended more and more foreign friends.
Initially, both people are very friendly, almost fake toward each other, then accidentally they offend each other repeatedly because of the ignorance to each other's customs, or language misunderstanding.
Neither person fully understands the other, and then one day something clicks and both are very genuine and real with each other, and despite moments of confusion, truly become friends. I can't wait to be the foreign kid for once!
What are you looking forward to the least in your upcoming semester?
One thing I am dreading about next semester is the language barrier. I do not speak Hungarian. There is nothing more frustrating to me then not understanding people or being out of the loop. I hate relying on someone else to translate everything. There really is so much that is "Lost in Translation," and I dread being the one who is lost!
I have this distinct, future scenario in my head that I just can't shake. Two Hungarians (older women) are speaking loud, abrasive Hungarian to me and making swooping hand gestures to me, as if this will help me understand, and I am facing them with a fake, unsure grin across my face (the type found in all third-grade yearbook photos), one eyebrow slightly raised, and my bugged eyes shift rapidly from one lady to the other. My ridiculous expression is unwavering as if I was a victim of Botox ninjas. Frozen in confusion, all I can do is nod eagerly. After a few minutes, they look at each other baffled, and throw their arms in the air with frustration, turn and walk off discussing my ignorance. If this fear is fortuitous, then, this is what I most dread.
What made you want to study abroad?
In high school I desperately wanted to be a foreign exchange student, yet it never came to pass. I've always been interested in other cultures and traveling. A friend of mine and I made plans to backpack around Europe summer '06, but the previous fall after a year of planning, she said she wouldn't have the resources that summer, but perhaps the next. I am not one to wait and depend on someone else to live my dreams. I refuse to have another dream turn in to a regret that haunts me.
I knew I wasn't comfortable enough to go at it alone, but I wanted to travel. And study abroad seemed the most logical next step. Instead of one month, bouncing from country to country on a dime, I could live in a different country for a semester and travel after it was over! This idea didn't require me to depend on anyone else. Also, I could receive the few remaining hours I needed for my degree. Budapest, Hungary will be my home for the next five months, where I will travel, learn, and live!
Why did you choose this destination/program?
My options were limited because I do not speak any other languages, most unfortunately! In 2000, I actually got the chance to go to Romania for two weeks. I found it so odd how even though I was thousands of miles away from home there was a familiarity to the Transylvanian area. The terrain was very similar to my east Tennessee Appalachian Mountains. In fact, so similar that "Cold Mountain" was later filmed there. Also, the people have a friendly, hospitable way about them just as southerners do.
On the other hand, everything else was so vastly different, such as the soldiers with rifles slung over their shoulders who walked the streets in pairs. Ever since that trip, eastern Europe has interested me.
Initially, I wanted to go to Poland or the Czech Republic. Then, I went to a book signing and a man told a story about his and his Polish wife's experience in Poland, and I begin to reevaluate my decision. I realize petty crime happens everywhere, and one man's experience shouldn't be enough to sway a decision, but I took the irony as a sign. Then, Hungary began to sound even more appealing to me.
In the end, Budapest, Hungary won my heart! Central Europe and eastern Europe is going through a massive transition, since Communism fell less than 20 years ago. I want to experience these cultures before they become completely "westernized."
Another perk, I was not required to know the language, which is a double-edge sword in reality.
What are your hobbies and interests?
One of my biggest passions is soccer! I played growing up and in high school, and I believe I will always regret not attempting to play in college. It might sound foolish, but this past year I had a realization that in all competitive means, my soccer career was long lost, and it was like mourning the loss of a loved one. I don't know why it took me so long to realize how much I regretted my decision of not trying to play. However, I find it fulfilling to watch as much footie as I can, and play for fun with my friends, and I was involved on a few intramural teams, which helps with the soccer longings.
I am also a huge fan of dancing! Not any particular form, I actually enjoy the non-form form! This past semester I took a class called "Social Dance." I learned the basics of Tango, Salsa, Meringue, Swing, Waltz, Cha- Cha, and Disco (which happens to be the most difficult, might I add). I have a new found respect and love for dancers! Other interests of mine are socializing, reading, playing cards, crocheting, and other old lady habits. I am also a big fan of pranks and being deviant in a harmless manner!
What are your favorite books and magazines?
I never subscribe to any magazines, I can't remember the last time I bought one, and I rarely read them. On the rare occasion I do thumb through one I tend to grab some absurd garbage like People or other celebrity magazines. I look through them and say to myself, "These are so stupid! Who even reads this crap!?" Ironically, as I eww and aww at the latest Hollywood break-up or pregnancy.
I enjoy a witty book though! There is something so great about a book that can literally make you laugh out loud. To name a few: Bridget Jones' Diary, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, Jemima J, and Pleasure of My Company. I also enjoy travel books and historical portraits.
What type of music do you listen to?
My brother absorbed the true passion for music in the family. However, I do enjoy music very much! The best music is the kind that without conscious effort or intention your body begins to sway and move to, or your foot sneakily begins mimicking the beat. I love good vocals and humorous lyrics. I tend to find something or someone I love and cling. Such as the classics, Queen, Prince, Elton John, Patsy Cline, and Ella Fitzgerald. Foo Fighters, Norah Jones, Keith Urban, Alison Kraus and Union Station and Jet are staples on my iPod.
Secretly, some pop such as Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, Outkast, and Britney Spears grace my eardrums, too! I can't get into rap, country, or punk, but generally anything with a good beat.
What are you favorite TV shows and movies?
I wouldn't say I have a favorite show. I bounce between a few channels in hopes of finding something entertaining: Comedy Central, TLC, Style Network, Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and occasionally MTV just to be predictable. I make an attempt to watch Little People, Big World and America's Next Top Model for photographic inspiration. I also love when Discovery has Shark Week! Although terrified of sharks, they are also a huge interest of mine.
I do love movies I must say. For two hours, I can transport to another life. A few movies I really adore are the Motorcycle Diaries, Billy Elliott, Shrek 2, When Harry Met Sally, Some Like It Hot, Young Frankenstein, About a Boy and the list could go on.
If you could have dinner with one famous person - alive or dead, historical or celebrity - who would it be and why?
Believe it or believe it, I would love to dine with Ms. Dolly Parton. I realize out of the vast array of people who have shaped our country or made a massive impact on the world, it seems insane to pick Dolly. However, not only is she a Tennessee gal, but she's very intriguing. I recently watched a True Hollywood Story on her and realized there is more to her than silicone and bouffant blonde wigs.
She is a classic rags-to-riches story, and I always find those stories inspiring! "If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving another one," Dolly was quoted saying, which is truly a great point. However, she has been very benevolent with her wealth for those who couldn't start a new path. Also, she embraces her eccentricities and can make fun of herself, which says a lot about a person. Ultimately, I think she would be a hilarious and interesting dinner date!
Do you find Cynthia fascinating? Then just wait until you read her blog.
