After graduating from SCAD, I met Joe, a handsome young man with expansive curly red hair and dreams of going abroad. I certainly couldn’t let him go on his own, so we headed off to Japan to teach English.
Japan was amazing—good money, complete freedom, and endless exploration. The first year flew by, and much to our families’ dismay, we signed on for another.
This wasn’t my first time living abroad. I spent my middle school years in Düsseldorf, Germany. Attending an international school there showed me how small and interconnected the world truly is. I saw firsthand that the American way isn’t always the best way.
Back in Japan, we spent our breaks exploring every inch of the country and traveling to China, Hong Kong, and Australia. After our contracts ended, we explored Southeast Asia and India.
Our thirst for adventure led us to Sydney, Australia, where Joe pursued his Master’s degree. Life in Sydney was very fun but tough financially. I struggled to find work as a designer, eventually landing a job as a catalog designer for a tech company.
Still not ready to return Stateside—our adventures continued in Tanzania, where Joe signed a two-year contract with Amani Children’s Home. I volunteered as an art teacher and managed an expat bar. In Tanzania, everything felt like a challenge. Simple tasks felt monumental, and the experience was humbling. Living in places where I was the minority gave me a profound appreciation for those who don’t have the privilege of choice.
Living abroad for five years was the best gift Joe and I could have given ourselves. Travel is the best way to understand our interconnected world. It taught me empathy and broadened my worldview.
However, not everyone has the opportunity to travel. When travel isn’t possible, education serves as the next best path to understanding, offering similar insights and fostering empathy.
My travels shaped my passion for graphic design and my commitment to nonprofits focused on education. Those experiences made me realize the power of education in bridging cultural gaps and fostering understanding.
And as for Joe and his once-expansive curly red hair? It's settled down a bit, but our adventurous spirits haven't. We're always plotting our next journey—and we’ve got a big one coming up this July!
We’re heading to the Big Island of Hawai'i for a three-week home exchange. I’ll be working on and off throughout the trip, but please be patient as I am looking forward to living on “island time”!