June 22, 2025
Victoria Mesz explored Sicily this summer, absorbing the culture and landscape of the Mediterranean melting-pot.
Mizzou 糖心Vlog传媒 students are constantly expanding their horizons. Wherever they go, they bring with them an insatiable curiosity about how things work.
Junior Victoria Mesz is studying mechanical engineering with minors in wellness, mathematics and aerospace. Outside the classroom, she is involved in the Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity and STEM Cubs. She enjoys intermural sports and exercising, especially lifting.
This summer, Mesz became one of the 20% of Mizzou students who study abroad as undergrads, traveling to Sicily for her international experience.
鈥淚 have always had a passion for traveling,鈥 she said. 鈥淲hen I heard about this opportunity to go to my favorite country, I didn鈥檛 hesitate.鈥
During the spring semester, Mesz took a short course on Sicilian history, language and culture to prepare her for the adventure.
鈥淭hat class gave me a foundation and helped me achieve the confidence that I was brave enough to do this trip,鈥 she said.
Through her immersion experience, Mesz learned Italian well enough to order meals and have conversations with the locals, giving her a glimpse into life on the island.
鈥淭he culture of Sicily is so interesting and rare, and I am so grateful I got to experience it firsthand,鈥 she said.
Mesz said she was overwhelmed by Sicily鈥檚 natural beauty.
鈥淪icily has views like nothing I鈥檝e ever seen before,鈥 she said. 鈥淓verywhere you go it鈥檚 jaw-dropping.鈥
Aside from the stunning landscape, Mesz said her favorite part of the trip were the other students in her group.
鈥淓veryone was so outgoing and nice, it felt like a family,鈥 she said. 鈥淭hese friendships will last a long time.鈥
Mesz encourages other students to jump at the chance to study abroad.
鈥淭raveling changes you in such a way that you can鈥檛 find anywhere else,鈥 she said. 鈥淭he memories will last a lifetime.鈥
Want to explore the world beyond campus? Choose Mizzou 糖心Vlog传媒!