Meet your Advisor - Trey Kirkpatrick

Where did you study abroad?

Trey Kirkpatrick in front of historic buildings while studying abroad in Viterbo, Italy.

I studied abroad in Viterbo, Italy. It was one of the most amazing and life-changing experiences of my life. Living in such a small and authentic town gave me so much perspective on the world, and the amazing food didn’t hurt either.

What is your favorite memory from your time abroad?

Historic buildings on the coast of Italy. My favorite memory from my time abroad was spring break. To start, we went to the Amalfi Coast for my friend’s 21st birthday. We spent time enjoying the beach, eating pizza, trying seafood, and so much more. The Amalfi Coast was one of the most scenic and picturesque places I have ever visited. We took the ferry from where we were staying in Salerno to all the towns along the coast. We were some of the only people on the boat, so it felt like our own private boat tour.

After we finished up in Amalfi, we took the train up to Tuscany on a whim and spent five days staying in an amazing rooftop Airbnb in Siena — I have no idea how we were able to get such a nice place on such short notice. We spent our days trying the local food and drinks, and it was so amazing to have real authentic Tuscan food at some of the best restaurants in the region. During our stay, we decided to take an afternoon trip to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower. Although there wasn’t a whole lot to do there, seeing it in person was surreal. Overall, this trip was one of the most memorable and fun two weeks of my life.

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

Trey Kirkpatrick in a yellow and black jacket with the sea and ice behind him in Iceland.

My favorite place I have ever traveled is Iceland. While I did not travel there during my time studying abroad, it was still one of the coolest places I have ever been. The landscapes are truly out of this world, and it feels like you are on another planet. I always recommend Iceland to anyone who wants a fun and unique adventure.

What is your funniest travel memory?

My funniest travel memory would have to be when my friends and I were walking to the train station in Viterbo in the pouring rain and a car drove by and splashed us all. In the moment, I was not too happy, but looking back, I can definitely get a good laugh out of it.

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

If I could go to any USAC program it would have to be our Rabat, Morocco, program. I have never been to Africa, and I think it would be such a cool experience to see a completely new culture.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Trey Kirkpatrick admiring historic buildings while traveling.

I love spending time outdoors in nature, trying new restaurants, going out with my friends, and, of course, traveling! I like to cook as well; I love to make the recipes I learned during my time in Italy for my friends and family.

What’s on your bucket list?

Something on my bucket list is seeing the northern lights. I didn’t get to see them during my time in Iceland, so it’s something that is definitely still on my bucket list.