Graduation Trip

Kally Meyer Start Date: Oct 23, 2023 - End Date: May 9, 2024
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Madrid, Spain
  • Barcelona, Spain
  • Lyon, France
  • Geneva, Switzerland
  • Zürich, Switzerland
  • Milan, Italy
  • Venice, Italy
  • Florence, Italy
  • Pisa, Italy
  • Rome, Italy
  • Naples, Italy
  • Mýkonos, Greece
  • Athens, Greece
  • Santorini, Greece

My Travel Story

by: Kally Meyer Start Date: Oct 23, 2023 - End Date: May 9, 2024
I will be graduating from Minnesota State University, Mankato in May 2024 and am planning to explore Europe for the month of June before starting a full-time job. I have always loved traveling and exploring new cultures, and figured what better way for me to celebrate my accomplishments and the start of a new chapter? 

The gameplan:
I plan to fly out of MSP around June 1st to either Portugal or Spain, depending on flight prices and how much I have saved up by the time I book. I will be exploring the south of France as I make my way to Switzerland. In Switzerland, I plan to spend some time hiking and exploring the Swiss Alps. Next, I will make my way to Italy where I plan to hit 6 different cities. Finally, I will head to Greece before heading back to Minnesota around July 1st- just in time to celebrate the 4th with my friends and family.

Why these countries?
Italy has been my dream destination for as long as I can remember, which is why the majority of the trip will revolve around exploring different cities there. 
After spending my junior year at the University of Georgia, I found a love for hiking after visiting the mountains in north Georgia, which sparked the idea of hiking in Switzerland. I also spent my Freshman and Junior year spring breaks in Puerto Rico, which allowed me to put my Spanish to use and fall in love with the Spanish aspects that mix into Puerto Rican culture- creating the desire to explore Spain. After hearing all the stories my little sister Megan had from traveling to Greece this past summer, I knew I needed to include it in my itenerary.

Final thoughts:
I am beyond grateful for all the support and guidance I have received during my college years. It feels like just yesterday I was a 2020 high school senior unsure what the future would hold in regards to COVID-19, college, my friends/family, and my future career. I am excited to finally walk down a stage and experience a true graduation. I can say with full confidence that I am proud of how far I have come and all the way I have challenged myself during these 4 years. I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for me and how much I will continue to grow. 

Feel free to send any recommendations or advice regarding Europe and starting a career my way. Thank you in advance!
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Madrid, Spain
  • Barcelona, Spain
  • Lyon, France
  • Geneva, Switzerland
  • Zürich, Switzerland
  • Milan, Italy
  • Venice, Italy
  • Florence, Italy
  • Pisa, Italy
  • Rome, Italy
  • Naples, Italy
  • Mýkonos, Greece
  • Athens, Greece
  • Santorini, Greece