by Irfaun Karim, Class of 2024
The exploratory funds provided by the Luther Hodges Scholars Program play a pivotal role in
catalyzing the expansion of knowledge among its scholars, enabling them to delve into a wide
array of subjects that align with their interests and aspirations. During my transformative
experience studying abroad in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, I seized a enriching opportunity to
immerse myself in the realm of urban development across Europe by participating in the
Conference on Comparative Urbanism and Urban Studies held in Porto, Portugal.
The significance of this opportunity was magnified by my background in the study of
Portuguese at UNC Chapel Hill, as it offered a dual advantage—allowing me to advance my
research on public transportation within the European context while simultaneously honing my
Portuguese proficiency through immersive cultural experiences.
Through this immersive journey, I gained invaluable insights into the myriad strategies employed
throughout the continent to foster connectivity across diverse cultures and geographical
landscapes. From unraveling the intricacies of Barcelona’s grid-style city development to
witnessing firsthand the efficiency of the city-connect train model in the Netherlands, this
venture provided me with a holistic understanding of public transportation systems on a
city-wide scale.
Participating in this seminar-style conference proved to be a dynamic platform for learning, as
keynote addresses covered a spectrum of pertinent topics, while interactive open sessions
facilitated fruitful exchanges with researchers who shared their latest findings and perspectives.
Furthermore, this immersive journey offered me a profound exploration of Porto’s rich cultural
and architectural heritage. Roaming the historic streets and marveling at landmarks such as the
iconic Luis I Bridge and the grand Porto Cathedral provided me with a deeper appreciation for
the city’s concerted efforts to seamlessly integrate its residents and visitors, thus enriching my
understanding of urban dynamics in practice.
I am immensely grateful to the Luther Hodges Scholars Program for their unwavering support,
which not only facilitated my intellectual growth but also contributed significantly to my personal
and cultural enrichment. This transformative experience has undoubtedly broadened my
horizons and fortified my commitment to making meaningful contributions to the field of public
transportation and beyond.