Study Abroad: Slovenia

By: Chandler Christensen, BLA '21

Ljubljana. If you’re the average person, like I was, you have no idea where that is, what it looks like, or even how to pronounce it. The correct pronunciation is “Lyoo-blyah-nuh”. Or “Loob-lee-ah-nah” for those of us with little European language background. Yes, the ‘j’s are silent. How cool is that? Geographically, Ljubljana is located in central Slovenia. If you haven’t googled where that is already, the country of Slovenia is bordering the north-east edge of Italy. It is a stunning land of green pastures, mountains, rivers, and a very cute little coastline.

Life in Ljubljana is laid back, quiet, and very European. In the mornings the streets are busy with bicycles and public transit. Noontime is the perfect time to go people watching as families and individuals hit the streets to visit their neighborhood cafe for a light lunch and some coffee. The CASSIDY FROST, BLA ‘21 Our time in Slovenia definitely did not go the way that I envisioned it, returning to Utah earlier than anticipated in the wake of a pandemic. I was able to learn so much from the short amount of time that we did have. I met people whose outlook on life changed my own and experienced a culture full of tradition. I believe travel broadens our minds, allows us city center comes to life at night as the restaurants and bars along the river open and friends meet up for a drink and some food. Time seems to move slower. The hustle of the American life is seemingly nonexistent. Locals enjoy taking their time, delving into conversation, and enjoying a nice burek, a Slovenian pastry.

School is different. There is a great deal to learn from the unique perspective and beliefs of the Slovenian people. But learning is not exclusive to class. Travel opportunities are around every corner, and in turn, so are learning opportunities. The study-abroad experience is exciting, different, and challenging. All in all however, the study abroad experience is worth it!

By: Cassidy Frost, BLA ‘21

Our time in Slovenia definitely did not go the way that I envisioned it, returning to Utah earlier than anticipated in the wake of a pandemic. I was able to learn so much from the short amount of time that we did have. I met people whose outlook on life changed my own and experienced a culture full of tradition. I believe travel broadens our minds, allows us to be more understanding, and makes us better people. I’m grateful for the 4 weeks that we had and the cities we were able to experience. Coming home early was disappointing, but because of it, I have a fire to keep traveling and learning. Ljubljana is such a unique, beautiful place that will always hold a piece of my heart.