Meet Your Advisor - Emily Stage

Learn all about USAC Program Advisor, Emily!

Where did you study abroad?

Emily studying abroad in Peru.

I had the pleasure of spending half the summer of 2011 in Lima, Peru, intensively studying the Spanish Language. In 2013, I spent a full summer in Granada, Nicaragua through my Women’s Studies Program. During each visit, I stayed with host families and to this day I still chat with my host brother from Granada.

What is your favorite memory from your time abroad?

Emily ziplining in Nicaragua. I will never forget the rich history of Nicaragua! My studies were focused on the Nicaraguan Revolution of the 1970s from a feminist perspective, including the implications of United States involvement and interest. If you are at all interested in learning more, please read The Country Under My Skin by Gioconda Belli. She will change your life.

What is your favorite place you have traveled to and why?

Emily in front of Machu Picchu while studying abroad in Peru. I went to one of the new Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu! I went on a two-hour hike right after sunrise and arrived at the most breathtaking view of the Inca Citadel. I had a bittersweet feeling visiting the ancient site because, of course, I wanted to experience all the history, but its preservation is only as good as it is because the public wasn’t allowed access to the area for hundreds of years. There is still so much mystery surrounding this wonder. Who lived there and why was it abandoned?

What is your funniest travel memory?

I quickly learned the importance of carefully packing a carry-on after losing my luggage for over a week. Always bring more toothpaste!

If you could go on any USAC program, what would it be and why?

I would love to go to Portugal. As the oldest European country, it offers such historical value. Did you know they once owned half of the ‘New World?’

What do you like to do outside of work?

Emily playing disc golf. I’m very involved in my local disc golf community. I am a lead volunteer for the largest event in Las Vegas, Nevada, called The Las Vegas Challenge. Additionally, I am a co-founder of the first and only women’s league: The Sin City Sisters. If I am not running an event, you can catch me playing in one!

What is a weird fact about you?

I’m a murderino.

What’s on your bucket list?

I dream of being a homeowner. I have lots and lots of interior design ideas I’ve never been able to explore renting.

What’s a meme that describes your life?

Meme of a cat that reads "My terms are simple: you promise to worship me and meet all of my demands. Now sign here."