Hello! My name is Rhoslyn Kersten and I am from Philadelphia, PA (yes, actually in the city). I am currently in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences as well as the David C. Frederick Honors College here at Pitt as an undecided student. I have a lot of different interests (and am very indecisive) so am taking the time to explore and find what I want to do for the foreseeable future. I am honored to have been selected to participate in the Plus3 Netherlands trip and look forward to sharing my experiences!

I have always had the desire to travel and see different parts of the world. Growing up within such an active city has given me an appreciation for what a city has to offer and has only made me more excited to explore other cities, specifically Amsterdam and Rotterdam. I have been fortunate enough to go out of the country before, once to Australia to visit family and then to Israel, and have gone to Maine every summer in between. When I visit a new place, I love to explore the culture and different practices that are kept there, and look forward to learning about The Netherlands in just a few days! Aside from my interest in travel, I used to dance all throughout my childhood, doing mostly ballet but also contemporary and theater. In general, I love to be outside and explore the natural world, so I am excited to learn about more efficient practices to help protect those spaces and preserve them for future generations!

As someone who has always wanted to travel, I knew that it would be a priority for me coming into college. When I read about the Plus3 program in the Netherlands through the Honors college, I had to apply and take advantage of this opportunity so early on in my college career. After further looking into it, I realized that it directly aligned with one of my interests and something I was considering, which is the Certificate of Sustainability. In choosing this program, I hope to learn about different ways that businesses can be more sustainable and hopefully bring that knowledge back home with me. I know that such an experience can greatly contribute to my education, but I also believe it will broaden my perspective and give me a greater appreciation for other cultures around the world. I am excited to develop both academic and professional skills as well as personal skills while exploring a new country and standard for sustainability!