My name is Krystine Auguste, and I am a Haitian-American from Tampa, FL. During my undergraduate studies in hospitality and tourism management, I had a great time and was involved in student organizations. However, I regret not studying abroad. I was interested in it but didn't pursue it much, and for some reason, it felt out of reach. After a few years, I followed my passion for arts and history and pursued a Master of Arts in Museum Studies through the School of Library and Information Studies, University of Oklahoma. Early in my academic journey, I learned about the opportunity to study abroad and applied immediately!
Given the complexity of museum studies, the chance to take a dedicated study abroad class was like a dream come true. This summer, I took the OU in Italy: Exploring Libraries, Archives, and Museums course taught by Buffy Edwards and facilitated by Kaydee Dyer. We visited Siena, Florence, and Rome and stayed in Arezzo, Italy. It was a magical summer; we saw iconic masterpieces like the David of Galleria Academia in Florence and toured ancient Rome, including a close-up view of the Colosseum. This experience added immense value to my degree as we learned about museums and archives in real-time. We gained experience working with the Bruschi House Museum in Arezzo to enhance their visitor experience. The Rooney Family Center (RFC), part of the OU in Arezzo campus, also served as a place for students to learn to make pasta and hang out in their free time. We were fully immersed in the culture of Italy, speaking Italian with locals and even watching the Arezzo Joust! This class gave my classmates and me an unforgettable experience that greatly influenced the rest of my time as a Sooner.
I'm thrilled to return to Arezzo this fall as the Graduate Resident Director for the OU in Arezzo program for the academic year 2024–2025. I'll be working at the Rooney Family Center to help incoming study-abroad students as they arrive in Italy. The RFC is a fantastic space for incoming students, and I'm excited for them to enjoy their study abroad experience as I did. My past experiences have led me to this role, and I'm eager to join the team at the University of Oklahoma. Studying abroad is an experience I never thought I would have. I don't know when I would have traveled to Europe without the University of Oklahoma. Through this program, I experienced a new culture, tried new foods, made new friends, and furthered my career, Our professor and program coordinator were always warm and accommodating, and I can't say enough good things about studying abroad. As an online student, I feel more connected to the university after meeting Oklahoma students and faculty. Everyone should take the time to look into studying abroad!
