We first met our Photographer of the Month, Dare'l McMillian, at a Western Michigan University press event for Phantom of the Opera.

Music for shifting times: that is what we've called this series. Part of the idea behind the music shared with you in the series is to guide you to music which may help you think about or live through the unexpected, disconcerting, strange -- choose your own more emphatic adjective if you like -- situations facing the world. 

If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, last month I wrote about capturing your study abroad experience. Now, I’m going to discuss some ways you can share your experience. Hopefully this helps give you some ideas. The biggest thing is sharing your experience where it makes sense for you. 

Archeological sites offer pieces to the massive puzzle of human history. At Chimney Rock National Monument, nestled in the San Juan National Forest in Southwest Colorado, summer travelers touring between May 15 and September 30 can learn about the indigenous people who constructed rudimentary homes and ceremonial buildings centuries ago.

Indonesia is famous around the world for its spectacular beaches, islands, and reefs. Hundreds of species of fish, sea cucumber, and coral are native to Indonesia, which makes it a snorkeling and diving hotspot for adventure lovers around the world.

I looked down on her. Was there any other way to say it? I’m sure that’s how she saw me. Physically, there was no way around it. The top of her head came to my waist, her height the result of a lifetime of poor nutrition. Economically, I, a teen American, would be given more in life than she ever had. I was finishing high school with excellent grades and a good shot at college.

Do you remember your time in a classroom? Perhaps there are flickering images of building with blocks, playing handball at recess, or you can possibly grasp the names of your teachers all the way back to kindergarten. Perhaps you remember running the mile in physical education, joining your first bake sale, or that time you wanted to learn to play the flute.

At first glance, melon pan may seem a curiously misleading name – especially if you happen to choose a double chocolate melon pan (and you should – actually, order a few) or matcha melon pan.

Winter. It is a time, at the turning of the year, for looking back, and looking forward. It is a time for silence and solitude, for gathering in community and sharing with friends, as well.  

Harsh weather sometimes comes along; at this writing, harsh political and social situations abound. Yet there is, there can be, hope. That may be found in the solitude and in the community the turning of the year invites. 

As I think back on my study abroad experience in London, I am lucky enough to have my blog, pictures, and videos to help me remember my many experiences. As time goes on, the minor details aren’t as easily recalled, but having something to look back at has been incredibly helpful in being able to remember. Today, I want to take a moment to share why you should consider capturing your experiences and some tips to do so. While it is best to be present and enjoy your time abroad, I would also encourage you to find ways to capture it.