Reflection Journal

Reflection Journal

Week 2

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Week 1: Diep geworteld, breed vertakt perfectly describes why I wanted to intern abroad.

Week 1: Diep geworteld, breed vertakt perfectly describes why I wanted to intern abroad.



Week 1: Diep geworteld, breed vertakt perfectly describes why I wanted to intern abroad.

While I do love being in college and doing animal-based medical research, it's easy for routines to feel repetitive. Most weekdays consisted of: lecture, in vivo research, study, sleep, and repeat for every semester (including summers). Pursuing this research internship abroad has felt like a way to explore a new world (well, country) and spread my wings into a new branch of research.

I am happy to say that my experiences here have been unlike any other. I quickly made friends with those in my international dorm, and spontaneously explored Brussels (about 20mins by train from Leuven) on only my second day in Belgium. In just this short time, I've been able to explore two cities, meet so many kind people, and admire the beautiful landscape here.

Even the struggles here are unique. Using a car for transportation is difficult in Leuven, so I primarily bike or bus around the city. Normally this wouldn't be an issue, but the many hills and rainy weather are a struggle. I'm not used to constantly cycling up and down hills, or being faced with cold, dry wind during downpours,. However, I am still finding positives despite these initial setbacks. I can feel myself getting more fit with every day I bike — from all the sightseeing, I've lost track of how far I have cycled each day. And despite the weather, I find Leuven to be even more beautiful when it's raining (and now bring an umbrella everywhere).

While I do love being in college and doing animal-based medical research, it's easy for routines to feel repetitive. Most weekdays consisted of: lecture, in vivo research, study, sleep, and repeat for every semester (including summers). Pursuing this research internship abroad has felt like a way to explore a new world (well, country) and spread my wings into a new branch of research.

I am happy to say that my experiences here have been unlike any other. I quickly made friends with those in my international dorm, and spontaneously explored Brussels (about 20mins by train from Leuven) on only my second day in Belgium. In just this short time, I've been able to explore two cities, meet so many kind people, and admire the beautiful landscape here.

Even the struggles here are unique. Using a car for transportation is difficult in Leuven, so I primarily bike or bus around the city. Normally this wouldn't be an issue, but the many hills and rainy weather are a struggle. I'm not used to constantly cycling up and down hills, or being faced with cold, dry wind during downpours,. However, I am still finding positives despite these initial setbacks. I can feel myself getting more fit with every day I bike — from all the sightseeing, I've lost track of how far I have cycled each day. And despite the weather, I find Leuven to be even more beautiful when it's raining (and now bring an umbrella everywhere).

While I do love being in college and doing animal-based medical research, it's easy for routines to feel repetitive. Most weekdays consisted of: lecture, in vivo research, study, sleep, and repeat for every semester (including summers). Pursuing this research internship abroad has felt like a way to explore a new world (well, country) and spread my wings into a new branch of research.

I am happy to say that my experiences here have been unlike any other. I quickly made friends with those in my international dorm, and spontaneously explored Brussels (about 20mins by train from Leuven) on only my second day in Belgium. In just this short time, I've been able to explore two cities, meet so many kind people, and admire the beautiful landscape here.

Even the struggles here are unique. Using a car for transportation is difficult in Leuven, so I primarily bike or bus around the city. Normally this wouldn't be an issue, but the many hills and rainy weather are a struggle. I'm not used to constantly cycling up and down hills, or being faced with cold, dry wind during downpours,. However, I am still finding positives despite these initial setbacks. I can feel myself getting more fit with every day I bike — from all the sightseeing, I've lost track of how far I have cycled each day. And despite the weather, I find Leuven to be even more beautiful when it's raining (and now bring an umbrella everywhere).

  • "Diep geworteld, breed vertakt", or

    "Deeply rooted, broadly branched".



    05/10/24

    Leuven



  • View of the city at sunrise

    from my housing accommodation.


    05/11/14

    Leuven



  • Belgian meatballs & fries

    with tar tar sauce from Ballekes.


    05/11/24

    Brussels



  • One of many touristy Belgian chocolate

    shops with Mannekin Pis-themed items.


    05/11/24

    Brussels



  • The altar of the 900-year old

    Église Notre-Dame de la Chapelle.


    05/11/24

    Brussels


  • Brussels sign in front of the

    Église Sainte-Catherine.


    05/11/24

    Brussels


  • A duck overlooking the Dyle River.

    Taken while walking to meet a friend.


    05/16/24

    Leuven


  • Sint-Pieterskerk, or Saint Peter's

    Church - the central cathedral of Leuven.

    05/16/24

    Leuven


  • Grote Markt, or "large market".

    Leuven's central square.


    05/16/24

    Leuven


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  • Prijs Per Gewicht, or Kilo Shop.

    One of many thrift shops I visited!



    05/18/24

    Leuven



  • Stracciatella & speculoos (biscoff-

    flavored) ice cream, + a chocolate waffle.



    05/18/24

    Leuven



  • Walkway towards the Groot Beginhof,

    a church in the south of the city.



    05/19/24

    Leuven



  • Tried my first croque monsieur at Bar

    Berlin with a iced honey latte.



    05/19/24

    Leuven



  • Iced elderberry lemonades while

    watching a soccer match with a friend.



    05/19/24

    Leuven



  • Biked to the historic Arenberg Castle

    and its surrounding park/greenery.



    05/20/24

    Leuven



  • Visited a Belgian saint's (Sint

    Anthonius or St. Anthony's) Chapel.


    05/20/24

    Leuven



  • Universiteitsbibliotheek en

    bibliotheektoren, KUL's main library.


    05/20/24

    Leuven



  • Tried authentic Belgian fries and Dutch

    bitterballen, with joppie & tartar sauce.


    05/20/24

    Leuven



  • Tried Wurst, a gourmet hot dog place.

    Argentinian hot dog, sides, + Belgian soda.



    05/21/24

    Leuven



  • Bought pastries including Belgian

    "sandwiches" (bread rolls) at Au Flan Breton.



    05/22/24

    Leuven



  • Ate Indian food for the first time with

    fellow int'l researchers!



    05/24/24

    Leuven





Week 2: Exploring Leuven via its food.



Week 2: Exploring Leuven via its food.




Week 2: Exploring Leuven via its food.

This week has mostly been centered around exploring Leuven. Last week was filled with experiences from Brussels and IORT. This week, I wanted to take time to explore the city by shopping around and finding my new favorite restaurants.

At home, I love watching international cooking videos and learning all about cultures through their cuisine. Leuven has such a diverse food culture, so I knew I wanted to jump into the local food scene, as soon as I got settled. While the help of Belgian Ph.D. students and a French friend from my dorm (who's a fellow medical research intern!), I'm learning all about Dutch and French cuisine, language, and culture. I received many recommendations for patisserie, frituur, and broodje places. I tried many types of Dutch, Belgian, and French foods: bitterballen, frites, speculoos ice cream/spread, a croque monsieur, sandwiches (bread rolls), Ritchie's (a Belgian soda), and more. I even tried Indian food for the first time with several other international researchers who are visiting Leuven.

I've grown more comfortable and familiar with my housing accommodation, laboratory, and city, overall. I'm so excited to try more restaurants (Turkish, Syrian, etc.) and for all the experiences I'll have next.

This week has mostly been centered around exploring Leuven. Last week was filled with experiences from Brussels and IORT. This week, I wanted to take time to explore the city by shopping around and finding my new favorite restaurants.

At home, I love watching international cooking videos and learning all about cultures through their cuisine. Leuven has such a diverse food culture, so I knew I wanted to jump into the local food scene, as soon as I got settled. While the help of Belgian Ph.D. students and a French friend from my dorm (who's a fellow medical research intern!), I'm learning all about Dutch and French cuisine, language, and culture. I received many recommendations for patisserie, frituur, and broodje places. I tried many types of Dutch, Belgian, and French foods: bitterballen, frites, speculoos ice cream/spread, a croque monsieur, sandwiches (bread rolls), Ritchie's (a Belgian soda), and more. I even tried Indian food for the first time with several other international researchers who are visiting Leuven.

I've grown more comfortable and familiar with my housing accommodation, laboratory, and city, overall. I'm so excited to try more restaurants (Turkish, Syrian, etc.) and for all the experiences I'll have next.

This week has mostly been centered around exploring Leuven. Last week was filled with experiences from Brussels and IORT. This week, I wanted to take time to explore the city by shopping around and finding my new favorite restaurants.

At home, I love watching international cooking videos and learning all about cultures through their cuisine. Leuven has such a diverse food culture, so I knew I wanted to jump into the local food scene, as soon as I got settled. While the help of Belgian Ph.D. students and a French friend from my dorm (who's a fellow medical research intern!), I'm learning all about Dutch and French cuisine, language, and culture. I received many recommendations for patisserie, frituur, and broodje places. I tried many types of Dutch, Belgian, and French foods: bitterballen, frites, speculoos ice cream/spread, a croque monsieur, sandwiches (bread rolls), Ritchie's (a Belgian soda), and more. I even tried Indian food for the first time with several other international researchers who are visiting Leuven.

I've grown more comfortable and familiar with my housing accommodation, laboratory, and city, overall. I'm so excited to try more restaurants (Turkish, Syrian, etc.) and for all the experiences I'll have next.

Super jazzed for my Brussels birthday weekend!

Super jazzed for my Brussels birthday weekend!

Super jazzed for my Brussels birthday weekend!

This weekend, I celebrated my birthday! It was a bittersweet being so far from family and friends, but I had a great time exploring Brussels with a friend.

All weekend, there were all sorts of live music events for Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend 2024. From brass bands busking around the busy streets to experimental jazz fusion performances in front of cathedrals, the city was so lively. We had a bunch of Belgian fries (double-fried in duck fat!) with tartar sauce, Brussels-style waffles (the square kind, very different from the Liege ones), and our first Belgian beers. On top of all the Belgian food, I brought a cultural tradition to Europe. It's customary for Filipinos to eat noodles on someone's birthday, as the long noodle strands represent a long, healthy life. My friend reserved an authentic Italian restaurant where we had some incredible noodles.

While it was a bit strange to be away from home during my birthday, the celebration I had will be one I'll never forget.

This weekend, I celebrated my birthday! It was a bittersweet being so far from family and friends, but I had a great time exploring Brussels with a friend.

All weekend, there were all sorts of live music events for Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend 2024. From brass bands busking around the busy streets to experimental jazz fusion performances in front of cathedrals, the city was so lively. We had a bunch of Belgian fries (double-fried in duck fat!) with tartar sauce, Brussels-style waffles (the square kind, very different from the Liege ones), and our first Belgian beers. On top of all the Belgian food, I brought a cultural tradition to Europe. It's customary for Filipinos to eat noodles on someone's birthday, as the long noodle strands represent a long, healthy life. My friend reserved an authentic Italian restaurant where we had some incredible noodles.

While it was a bit strange to be away from home during my birthday, the celebration I had will be one I'll never forget.

This weekend, I celebrated my birthday! It was a bittersweet being so far from family and friends, but I had a great time exploring Brussels with a friend.

All weekend, there were all sorts of live music events for Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend 2024. From brass bands busking around the busy streets to experimental jazz fusion performances in front of cathedrals, the city was so lively. We had a bunch of Belgian fries (double-fried in duck fat!) with tartar sauce, Brussels-style waffles (the square kind, very different from the Liege ones), and our first Belgian beers. On top of all the Belgian food, I brought a cultural tradition to Europe. It's customary for Filipinos to eat noodles on someone's birthday, as the long noodle strands represent a long, healthy life. My friend reserved an authentic Italian restaurant where we had some incredible noodles.

While it was a bit strange to be away from home during my birthday, the celebration I had will be one I'll never forget.

  • My first Belgian beer from the Belgian

    Beer Museum! (It was bitter, not my thing.)



    Brussels




  • Lunch at Fresca, an Italian restaurant just

    south of Brussels.



    Brussels




  • Posters from the Belgian Beer Museum,

    detailing how beer is made in 3 languages.



    Brussels




  • A decorative display of raw noodles on a

    weighing scale in Fresca.



    Brussels




  • Midday snack from Maison Dandoy. Brussels

    waffles with speculoos toppings.



    Brussels




  • The Grand Place (main city plaza) during

    the Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend.



    Brussels




  • Stage set up at the Place

    Sainte-Catherine.



    Brussels




  • A snack from Madmum: passionfruit

    cheesecake, pastry, & tea.



    Leuven




  • Light storm brewing over the city center.

    Taken at int'l dorm.



    05/28/24

    Leuven



  • Otomat's Poulet Chasseur pizza. Belgian

    beer (Duvel) yeast was used for the dough.



    05/30/24

    Leuven



  • Bar & refrigerator at Belgian pizzeria,

    Otomat.


    05/30/24

    Leuven



  • Ceiling and architecture

    of Antwerp-Centraal.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Statue of David Teniers II, a Flemish

    baroque painter.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Inside of Antwerp's central shopping

    mall, Shopping Staadfeestzaal.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • The outside of the Onze-Lieve-

    Vrouwekathedraal, or the Cathedral of our Lady.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Detailed carvings of Onze-Lieve-

    Vrouwekathedraal's side entrance.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Museum Plantin-Moretus, a museum in a

    16th-century printing family's home.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Centuries-old texts of Gregorian chants,

    likely printed in the 1700s.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • The Plantin-Moretus family's home

    garden, connecting various exhibits.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Plantin-Moretus family's

    beautiful spiral staircase painting.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • One of two libraries in the printing

    museum.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Copy of 16th-century anatomy

    book, printed by Plantin.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • The altar of Sint-Andrieskerk, or

    St. Andrew's Church.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • From entrance of the Het Steen, a

    medieval fortress w/ a panoramic view.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



Week 3: Historical adventures in Antwerp

Week 3: Historical adventures in Antwerp

Week 3: Historical adventures in Antwerp

After a long (but fruitful) week of rain, pizza recommendations, and new lab techniques, I was excited to explore a new city. Two friends and I went around Antwerp this weekend (also called Antwerpen in Dutch, and Anvers in French).

It was so beautiful! My favorite part was the printing museum we visited, called Museum Plantin-Moretus. I had little to no interest in the printers before this museum. Visiting helped change my mind, a bit. The museum was the former residence of Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus, two influential 16th-century printers. They were the first to print materials on an industrial scale. The museum showcased elaborately decorated rooms, replicas of the first-ever industrial printers, and some of their centuries-old artwork. Their innovation drastically changed the distribution of knowledge in many fields: language translations, medical/plant sciences, religion, and the humanities. I even got to test out a Gutenberg press, myself!

After a long (but fruitful) week of rain, pizza recommendations, and new lab techniques, I was excited to explore a new city. Two friends and I went around Antwerp this weekend (also called Antwerpen in Dutch, and Anvers in French).

It was so beautiful! My favorite part was the printing museum we visited, called Museum Plantin-Moretus. I had little to no interest in the printers before this museum. Visiting helped change my mind, a bit. The museum was the former residence of Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus, two influential 16th-century printers. They were the first to print materials on an industrial scale. The museum showcased elaborately decorated rooms, replicas of the first-ever industrial printers, and some of their centuries-old artwork. Their innovation drastically changed the distribution of knowledge in many fields: language translations, medical/plant sciences, religion, and the humanities. I even got to test out a Gutenberg press, myself!

After a long (but fruitful) week of rain, pizza recommendations, and new lab techniques, I was excited to explore a new city. Two friends and I went around Antwerp this weekend (also called Antwerpen in Dutch, and Anvers in French).

It was so beautiful! My favorite part was the printing museum we visited, called Museum Plantin-Moretus. I had little to no interest in the printers before this museum. Visiting helped change my mind, a bit. The museum was the former residence of Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus, two influential 16th-century printers. They were the first to print materials on an industrial scale. The museum showcased elaborately decorated rooms, replicas of the first-ever industrial printers, and some of their centuries-old artwork. Their innovation drastically changed the distribution of knowledge in many fields: language translations, medical/plant sciences, religion, and the humanities. I even got to test out a Gutenberg press, myself!

Week 4: The L in Leuven is for lots of rest.

Week 4: The L in Leuven is for lots of rest.

This week was considerably slower than usual — not in terms of internship work (I accomplished a lot this week!), but my adventures here in Belgium.

I wasn't feeling my best. I fell off my bike and it took some time for the rental shop to repair the now-broken gear shift. My back was quite sore this week, with my chronic pain flaring up every now and then. I also felt quite fatigued. I'm still not sure if it's from all the biking or my recurring headaches.

It's incredibly easy to get wrapped up in all the excitement. With all the new sights to see and places to explore, it's hard to take things slow. After some time, I guess my body took a hit. I forced myself to take the time to rest this week.

After lots of naps and UberEats orders, I'm ready to get back to it.

This week was considerably slower than usual — not in terms of internship work (I accomplished a lot this week!), but my adventures here in Belgium.

I wasn't feeling my best. I fell off my bike and it took some time for the rental shop to repair the now-broken gear shift. My back was quite sore this week, with my chronic pain flaring up every now and then. I also felt quite fatigued. I'm still not sure if it's from all the biking or my recurring headaches.

It's incredibly easy to get wrapped up in all the excitement. With all the new sights to see and places to explore, it's hard to take things slow. After some time, I guess my body took a hit. I forced myself to take the time to rest this week.

After lots of naps and UberEats orders, I'm ready to get back to it.

This week was considerably slower than usual — not in terms of internship work (I accomplished a lot this week!), but my adventures here in Belgium.

I wasn't feeling my best. I fell off my bike and it took some time for the rental shop to repair the now-broken gear shift. My back was quite sore this week, with my chronic pain flaring up every now and then. I also felt quite fatigued. I'm still not sure if it's from all the biking or my recurring headaches.

It's incredibly easy to get wrapped up in all the excitement. With all the new sights to see and places to explore, it's hard to take things slow. After some time, I guess my body took a hit. I forced myself to take the time to rest this week.

After lots of naps and UberEats orders, I'm ready to get back to it.

  • Sunday brunch with friends! A chicken

    bagel sandwich from Nosh.



    06/02/24

    Leuven



  • Sunday brunch with friends! A chicken

    bagel sandwich from Nosh.



    06/02/24

    Leuven



  • Fell off my bike & into a puddle pf

    melted Smurf ice cream. (I'm okay!)



    06/02/24

    Leuven



  • Afternoon meal at Wasbar:

    another fried chicken sandwich..



    06/03/24

    Leuven



  • UberEats sushi! Perfect for a sick day.




    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Statue of David Teniers II, a Flemish

    baroque painter.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Statue of David Teniers II, a Flemish

    baroque painter.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Statue of David Teniers II, a Flemish

    baroque painter.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Statue of David Teniers II, a Flemish

    baroque painter.



    06/01/24

    Antwerp



  • Ate American-style burgers with

    friends at Manhattan Burgers.



    06/09/24

    Leuven



  • Enjoyed the nice, cool weather

    in the Grote Markt.



    06/09/24

    Leuven



  • Chatted and drank fruit tea

    in the Grote Markt.


    06/09/24

    Leuven



  • On the way to meet friends at the gym

    in Sportcampus Arenberg.



    06/10/24

    Leuven



  • Early morning uphill walk toward

    the bus station to get to lab.



    06/11/24

    Leuven


  • WFH, but home meaning a coffee

    shop called Oats Day Long.



    06/12/24

    Leuven



  • Cultural potluck with fellow

    dormmates!



    06/13/24

    Leuven



  • Chez Albert = Belgium's best waffle stall.




    06/01/24

    Bruges



  • Entrance to a Bruges beer shop




    06/15/24

    Bruges



  • The Belfort, or the Bruges Belfy, a

    historical bell tower in the Grote Markt.



    06/15/24

    Bruges



  • Organ of Sint-Salvatorkathedraal,

    a Gothic Catholic cathedral.



    06/15/24

    Bruges



  • Inside Rombaux, a beautiful

    musical instrument store.



    06/15/24

    Bruges



  • Group of swans along Wijngaardplein,

    translated as Vineyard Square.



    06/15/24

    Bruges



  • Dormmates and I along the Bruges canals




    06/15/24

    Bruges



  • Group dinner at Bistro Lily Frituur,

    I got fish & chips :)



    06/15/24

    Bruges



Week 5: Swans and ducks in Bruges, oh my!

Week 5: Swans and ducks in Bruges, oh my!

Week 5: Swans and ducks in Bruges, oh my!

As I've gotten more accustomed to my international dorm, I've slowly become friends with most people on my floor. Everyone I've met is involved in a different area of research than me, and it's been incredible to learn about their fields. From Ph.D. students studying astrophysics and nanotechnology, to fellow undergrads working on neuroscience, it's been eye-opening.

I started off this week by introducing my friends to American-style burgers during our weekly Sunday brunch and enjoying the fresh air together over a cup of warm tea. Later during the week, we held a cultural potluck in our dorm. Two Ph.Ds. from India cooked chicken biryani, I made Filipino turon, and other friends brought Belgian beer (Stella Artois, originating from Leuven) and fruit juice.

Over the weekend, we decided to explore Bruges, or Brugge — a city about 1-2 hours from Leuven, known for its winding canals and beautiful architecture. It was so fun and peaceful to roam around the city, see the swans and ducks swim around, and walk around the local park areas. I even got to try stoofvlees for the first time!

As I've gotten more accustomed to my international dorm, I've slowly become friends with most people on my floor. Everyone I've met is involved in a different area of research than me, and it's been incredible to learn about their fields. From Ph.D. students studying astrophysics and nanotechnology, to fellow undergrads working on neuroscience, it's been eye-opening.

I started off this week by introducing my friends to American-style burgers during our weekly Sunday brunch and enjoying the fresh air together over a cup of warm tea. Later during the week, we held a cultural potluck in our dorm. Two Ph.Ds. from India cooked chicken biryani, I made Filipino turon, and other friends brought Belgian beer (Stella Artois, originating from Leuven) and fruit juice.

Over the weekend, we decided to explore Bruges, or Brugge — a city about 1-2 hours from Leuven, known for its winding canals and beautiful architecture. It was so fun and peaceful to roam around the city, see the swans and ducks swim around, and walk around the local park areas. I even got to try stoofvlees for the first time!

As I've gotten more accustomed to my international dorm, I've slowly become friends with most people on my floor. Everyone I've met is involved in a different area of research than me, and it's been incredible to learn about their fields. From Ph.D. students studying astrophysics and nanotechnology, to fellow undergrads working on neuroscience, it's been eye-opening.

I started off this week by introducing my friends to American-style burgers during our weekly Sunday brunch and enjoying the fresh air together over a cup of warm tea. Later during the week, we held a cultural potluck in our dorm. Two Ph.Ds. from India cooked chicken biryani, I made Filipino turon, and other friends brought Belgian beer (Stella Artois, originating from Leuven) and fruit juice.

Over the weekend, we decided to explore Bruges, or Brugge — a city about 1-2 hours from Leuven, known for its winding canals and beautiful architecture. It was so fun and peaceful to roam around the city, see the swans and ducks swim around, and walk around the local park areas. I even got to try stoofvlees for the first time!

Week 6: To the Northern Coast (De Haan & Ostend)

Week 6: To the Northern Coast (De Haan & Ostend)


Week 6: To the Northern Coast
(De Haan & Ostend)

Whether they were going back to their home countries or pursuing graduate studies outside of Leuven, the friends I made abroad started to leave. It was bittersweet. I was sad to say goodbye to so many friends I had made. But on the other hand, it made me better appreciate the time I still had abroad. After all, I was barely over halfway done with my internship.

Two of my dormmates and I spontaneously decided to explore Belgium's Northern coast that weekend. De Haan and Ostende, two cities along the Northern Sea, weren't originally on my "to-travel" list, but I was so glad we went.

By taking the Kusttram (aka the Coastal Tram, the world's longest tram line!), we traveled from De Haan to Ostend (spelled/pronounced as Ostende). We made plenty of stops along the way to walk along the rocky shore, eat broodjes on the beach, and saw lots of boats docked along the piers. Sunny days in Belgium are few and far between, so it made sense that the beach was packed full of people (despite the cool and windy weather). We even popped by the Ostendaise: Seafood Fest and tried some food there (and in the local food stalls).

It was fun to see a different version of Belgium — one that reminded me (just a bit) of home.

Whether they were going back to their home countries or pursuing graduate studies outside of Leuven, the friends I made abroad started to leave. It was bittersweet. I was sad to say goodbye to so many friends I had made. But on the other hand, it made me better appreciate the time I still had abroad. After all, I was barely over halfway done with my internship.

Two of my dormmates and I spontaneously decided to explore Belgium's Northern coast that weekend. De Haan and Ostende, two cities along the Northern Sea, weren't originally on my "to-travel" list, but I was so glad we went.

By taking the Kusttram (aka the Coastal Tram, the world's longest tram line!), we traveled from De Haan to Ostend (spelled/pronounced as Ostende). We made plenty of stops along the way to walk along the rocky shore, eat broodjes on the beach, and saw lots of boats docked along the piers. Sunny days in Belgium are few and far between, so it made sense that the beach was packed full of people (despite the cool and windy weather). We even popped by the Ostendaise: Seafood Fest and tried some food there (and in the local food stalls).

It was fun to see a different version of Belgium — one that reminded me (just a bit) of home.

Whether they were going back to their home countries or pursuing graduate studies outside of Leuven, the friends I made abroad started to leave. It was bittersweet. I was sad to say goodbye to so many friends I had made. But on the other hand, it made me better appreciate the time I still had abroad. After all, I was barely over halfway done with my internship.

Two of my dormmates and I spontaneously decided to explore Belgium's Northern coast that weekend. De Haan and Ostende, two cities along the Northern Sea, weren't originally on my "to-travel" list, but I was so glad we went.

By taking the Kusttram (aka the Coastal Tram, the world's longest tram line!), we traveled from De Haan to Ostend (spelled/pronounced as Ostende). We made plenty of stops along the way to walk along the rocky shore, eat broodjes on the beach, and saw lots of boats docked along the piers. Sunny days in Belgium are few and far between, so it made sense that the beach was packed full of people (despite the cool and windy weather). We even popped by the Ostendaise: Seafood Fest and tried some food there (and in the local food stalls).

It was fun to see a different version of Belgium — one that reminded me (just a bit) of home.

  • Saturday brunch with friends at

    Le Pain Quotidien, a local French bakery.



    06/22/24

    Leuven



  • All the pastry selections inside Le Pain

    Quotidien! (Almond croissants were my fav)



    06/22/24

    Leuven



  • Mid-Leuven Festival snack from Wurst,

    a specialty hot-dog spot.



    06/22/24

    Leuven



  • Ate sandwiches with friends on the beach

    of De Haan.



    06/23/24

    De Haan



  • Fish stalls in Ostende that sold fish & food

    along the beach.



    06/23/24

    Ostende



  • Dinner from the Ostende food stalls!

    (Included Belgian escargot)



    06/02/24

    Leuven



  • Goodbye dinner at Antico Pizza for

    one of our dormmates going to Italy.



    06/21/24

    Leuven



  • Midday snack after the Saturday market

    at Madmum, a local cafe chain in Leuven.



    06/29/24

    Leuven



  • Tried Ethiopian food with friends at

    the first time with Lalibela.



    06/30/24

    Leuven



  • Belgian McDonalds: ft. a Maestro burger,

    frites saus, & zoetzure saus.



    06/24/24

    Leuven



Week 7: Lounging around in Leuven

Week 7: Lounging around in Leuven


Week 7: Lounging around in Leuven

After a jam-packed week of biomechanics motion capture assessments, literature review for my ASD project, and team outings, I decided on staying in Leuven for the weekend with friends.

Friday through Sunday were filled with watching soccer (or football, as explained by the other int'l dormmates…) games, lounging in the Oude Markt's outdoor sports bars, working in local coffee shops, and exploring new restaurants (including Belgian McDonald's and a family-owned Ethiopian restaurant).

After a fast-paced, research-filled week, taking a slow weekend was as relaxing as needed.

After a jam-packed week of biomechanics motion capture assessments, literature review for my ASD project, and team outings, I decided on staying in Leuven for the weekend with friends.

Friday through Sunday were filled with watching soccer (or football, as explained by the other int'l dormmates…) games, lounging in the Oude Markt's outdoor sports bars, working in local coffee shops, and exploring new restaurants (including Belgian McDonald's and a family-owned Ethiopian restaurant).

After a fast-paced, research-filled week, taking a slow weekend was as relaxing as needed.

After a jam-packed week of biomechanics motion capture assessments, literature review for my ASD project, and team outings, I decided on staying in Leuven for the weekend with friends.

Friday through Sunday were filled with watching soccer (or football, as explained by the other int'l dormmates…) games, lounging in the Oude Markt's outdoor sports bars, working in local coffee shops, and exploring new restaurants (including Belgian McDonald's and a family-owned Ethiopian restaurant).

After a fast-paced, research-filled week, taking a slow weekend was as relaxing as needed.

Week 8: A Leuven Fourth of July & Liege waffles!

Week 8: A Leuven Fourth of July & Liege waffles!


Week 8: A Leuven Fourth of July & Liege waffles!

Most of the IORT team was out for a conference in Edinburgh, so my work week was primarily spent working in (cat) cafes and libraries all around Leuven.

Aside from research, I was also all around Leuven. I watched the UEFA Euro Championship in the Oude Markt and celebrated the 4th of July in KU Leuven's American College! The American College is a dorm near the city center, and some American residents + study abroad students and staff from Texas A&M held a celebratory BBQ! Everyone there gave me a warm welcome, and it was nice to see some American students after two months abroad.

Over the weekend, my friends and I decided to finally go to Liege! I had heard so many things about authentic Liege waffles and wanted to try them out. Aside from having waffles, we explore La Boverie (a beautiful fine arts museum), looked around some shopping districts, and enjoyed music from a Maneskin cover band.

Most of the IORT team was out for a conference in Edinburgh, so my work week was primarily spent working in (cat) cafes and libraries all around Leuven.

Aside from research, I was also all around Leuven. I watched the UEFA Euro Championship in the Oude Markt and celebrated the 4th of July in KU Leuven's American College! The American College is a dorm near the city center, and some American residents + study abroad students and staff from Texas A&M held a celebratory BBQ! Everyone there gave me a warm welcome, and it was nice to see some American students after two months abroad.

Over the weekend, my friends and I decided to finally go to Liege! I had heard so many things about authentic Liege waffles and wanted to try them out. Aside from having waffles, we explore La Boverie (a beautiful fine arts museum), looked around some shopping districts, and enjoyed music from a Maneskin cover band.

Most of the IORT team was out for a conference in Edinburgh, so my work week was primarily spent working in (cat) cafes and libraries all around Leuven.

Aside from research, I was also all around Leuven. I watched the UEFA Euro Championship in the Oude Markt and celebrated the 4th of July in KU Leuven's American College! The American College is a dorm near the city center, and some American residents + study abroad students and staff from Texas A&M held a celebratory BBQ! Everyone there gave me a warm welcome, and it was nice to see some American students after two months abroad.

Over the weekend, my friends and I decided to finally go to Liege! I had heard so many things about authentic Liege waffles and wanted to try them out. Aside from having waffles, we explore La Boverie (a beautiful fine arts museum), looked around some shopping districts, and enjoyed music from a Maneskin cover band.

  • Sleeping little cat from Poescafe,

    a cat cafe near the outskirts of town.



    07/02/24

    Leuven



  • Baffled by all the different Belgian sauces

    when shopping at a large grocery store.



    07/02/24

    Leuven



  • View from the American College's garden

    during intl student's 4th of July celebration.



    07/04/24

    Leuven



  • The Liege train station's beautiful art roof!



    07/04/24

    Liege



  • Outside La Boverie, a fine arts museum

    surrounded by a park and river.



    07/06/24

    Liege



  • Inside La Boverie!




    07/06/24

    Liege



  • Another area of La Boverie facing

    houses across the river.



    07/06/24

    Liege



  • A Monet I saw!!




    07/06/24

    Liege



  • Group of yachts along a Liege river.




    07/06/24

    Liege



  • Inside the Cathedrale Saint-Paul

    De Liege.



    07/06/24

    Liege



  • Climbed up hundreds of steps to see

    all of Liege!



    07/06/24

    Liege



  • Listened to a Maneskin cover band at a local

    music festival



    07/06/24

    Liege



  • Watched UEFA Euro Championship

    in Leuven's Oude Markt!



    07/01/24

    Leuven



  • Sunday brunch with friends

    at Bar Berlin!



    07/07/24

    Leuven



  • Tried Pinocchio's infamous

    waffles & ice cream



    07/09/24

    Leuven



  • Me with my Pinocchio ice cream!



    07/09/24

    Leuven



  • Brought some friends to get sushi before

    watching the Euro Cup.



    07/10/24

    Leuven



  • Met even more friends at Bar Louvain

    to watch the Euro Cup!



    07/10/24

    Leuven



  • Finally visited the Belgium's famous

    Atomium on a national holiday.



    07/11/24

    Brussels



  • Introduced my friends to Korean BBQ!




    07/11/24

    Brussels



  • Watched an orchestral performance in

    the Grand-Place For Brussel Danst.



    07/11/24

    Brussels



  • View of Brussels from Rooftop 58,

    a popular rooftop bar.



    07/11/24

    Brussels



Week 9: National holiday in Brussels

Week 9: National holiday in Brussels


Week 9: National holiday in Brussels

As my internship began to wind down, my non-research experiences amped up (just a bit!).

After my lab duties, I tried out more waffles places around town (can solidly say Leuven's Pinocchio & Bruges' Chez Albert were the best), watched more soccer (football) with friends, and brought them to get some great sushi.

Thursday was especially fun, as my friends and I were all off from lab due to a national holiday. We took the day to actually explore Brussels like the tourists we are; we visited the Atomium (it was a lot larger than expected!) and danced to some upbeat music in the Grand Place. I also introduced my friends to Korean BBQ at a local family-owned spot, and ended the night at Rooftop 58, a rooftop bar that overlooked all of Brussels!

As my internship began to wind down, my non-research experiences amped up (just a bit!).

After my lab duties, I tried out more waffles places around town (can solidly say Leuven's Pinocchio & Bruges' Chez Albert were the best), watched more soccer (football) with friends, and brought them to get some great sushi.

Thursday was especially fun, as my friends and I were all off from lab due to a national holiday. We took the day to actually explore Brussels like the tourists we are; we visited the Atomium (it was a lot larger than expected!) and danced to some upbeat music in the Grand Place. I also introduced my friends to Korean BBQ at a local family-owned spot, and ended the night at Rooftop 58, a rooftop bar that overlooked all of Brussels!

As my internship began to wind down, my non-research experiences amped up (just a bit!).

After my lab duties, I tried out more waffles places around town (can solidly say Leuven's Pinocchio & Bruges' Chez Albert were the best), watched more soccer (football) with friends, and brought them to get some great sushi.

Thursday was especially fun, as my friends and I were all off from lab due to a national holiday. We took the day to actually explore Brussels like the tourists we are; we visited the Atomium (it was a lot larger than expected!) and danced to some upbeat music in the Grand Place. I also introduced my friends to Korean BBQ at a local family-owned spot, and ended the night at Rooftop 58, a rooftop bar that overlooked all of Brussels!

Week 10: Jazz Festival in Ghent

Week 10: Jazz Festival in Ghent


Week 10: Jazz Festival in Ghent

After finding out back in February that I’d be spending the summer in Belgium, I was beyond excited to see that my favorite artist was scheduled to play at the Gent Jazz Festival. I bought tickets right away, barely able to believe my luck! Even though she later dropped from the lineup, my excitement for the festival didn’t fade one bit.

That week in Gent turned out to be so much more than just a concert—it was a beautiful way to wrap up my time in Belgium. Exploring Ghent, catching amazing performances by artists like Wasia Project and Birdy, and snacking on Belgian treats between sets was unforgettable.

As the week wrapped up, I had to say my goodbyes to all my friends. It was bittersweet—but we promised to keep in touch after we all left. I’m so grateful for the friendships and unforgettable experiences I've had across Belgium. I know I'll be back someday, and I’m already looking forward to the next adventure there.
After finding out back in February that I’d be spending the summer in Belgium, I was beyond excited to see that my favorite artist was scheduled to play at the Gent Jazz Festival. I bought tickets right away, barely able to believe my luck! Even though she later dropped from the lineup, my excitement for the festival didn’t fade one bit.

That week in Gent turned out to be so much more than just a concert—it was a beautiful way to wrap up my time in Belgium. Exploring Ghent, catching amazing performances by artists like Wasia Project and Birdy, and snacking on Belgian treats between sets was unforgettable.

As the week wrapped up, I had to say my goodbyes to all my friends. It was bittersweet—but we promised to keep in touch after we all left. I’m so grateful for the friendships and unforgettable experiences I've had across Belgium. I know I'll be back someday, and I’m already looking forward to the next adventure there.
After finding out back in February that I’d be spending the summer in Belgium, I was beyond excited to see that my favorite artist was scheduled to play at the Gent Jazz Festival. I bought tickets right away, barely able to believe my luck! Even though she later dropped from the lineup, my excitement for the festival didn’t fade one bit.

That week in Gent turned out to be so much more than just a concert—it was a beautiful way to wrap up my time in Belgium. Exploring Ghent, catching amazing performances by artists like Wasia Project and Birdy, and snacking on Belgian treats between sets was unforgettable.

As the week wrapped up, I had to say my goodbyes to all my friends. It was bittersweet—but we promised to keep in touch after we all left. I’m so grateful for the friendships and unforgettable experiences I've had across Belgium. I know I'll be back someday, and I’m already looking forward to the next adventure there.

  • Central square facing NTGent (left)

    and Sint-Baafskathedraal (right)



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Inside the Sint-Baafskathedraal, one of

    Ghent's main cathedrals.



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Canal boats floating along the Leie River.




    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Bilokesite — venue for the

    Gent Jazz Festival!



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Music Mania section of Gent Jazz that

    sold vinyls and CDs!



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Saw Wasia Project live in concert!

    Was so surreal, I've been a fan for years.



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • More of Wasia Project




    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Performance of Iniko, known for

    their song "Jericho"



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • My friends & I waiting for Wasia

    Project in the pit!



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • The one and only Birdy,

    famous for "Skinny Love"



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Pre-jazz festival ice cream!

    (Citron & raspberry)



    07/13/24

    Ghent



  • Trying Portuguese food for the first time

    during goodbye dinner with friends.



    07/18/24

    Leuven



  • Bar down the street having a

    karaoke night.



    07/18/24

    Leuven