Student Success Spotlight: Maya Meads 

Maya Meads has considered many different career paths, but one dream has remained constant: seeing the world. 

This dream became a reality when the Berea College student spent two weeks studying abroad in Turkey. It was Meads' first time leaving the United States and an experience she had eagerly anticipated for an entire school year. 

"Traveling is the number one thing I aspire to do," Meads said. "The world can be an amazing, unbelievable place. I don't think humans were designed to stay put." 

Her preparation began long before the flight. Meads created countless packing lists, researched what she might need, developed a budget, and planned for nearly every part of the journey. After months of anticipation, finally arriving in Turkey felt almost unreal. 

Being so far from home placed Meads in a completely unfamiliar environment. The differences in language, culture, and social norms made each day exciting and gave her the chance to experience life from a new perspective. 

"I had never left the country before, so this was a completely unique experience for me," she said. 

One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was living alongside Turkish students and experiencing their daily routines. Through those interactions, Meads learned about the country's history, culture, and traditions directly from the people who call it home. 

The experience encouraged her to become more open-minded and curious about lives beyond her own surroundings. It also showed her how much can be learned by stepping into an unfamiliar place and forming connections with people from another culture. 

For Meads, the two-week trip represented more than a change of scenery. It confirmed that travel can play an important role in her future, even as she continues exploring possible career paths. 

"Overall, I am so thankful for the opportunity I had to study abroad," Meads said, "and so excited for what it has ignited inside of me." 

Turkey became the first destination in what Meads hopes will be a life shaped by travel, learning, and new experiences.