Travel Is The Best Educator: Curate Memories & Live Fully
“Education is the gateway to a world of infinite opportunity. Together, we can build competency to foster collaboration and exercise culturally responsive pedagogy that perpetuates intergenerational success.”
— Hanan Allen, MPA
I’m Hanan — a proud naturalista, travelista, and culinary enthusiast born and raised in the Flower City, Rochester, NY. With ethnic roots in Casablanca, Morocco, my heritage has shaped my passion for global travel, storytelling, and cultural exchange.
A Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Fiji, 2016–2018) and alumna of Penn State University and Rutgers University–Camden, I’ve experienced firsthand how study abroad, service, and community engagement can expand not just our worldviews, but our hearts.
This digital space was created to inspire bold exploration, meaningful connection, and global curiosity. Follow my blog for updates and travel inspo around the world!
The world is your oyster — let’s discover it together.
About Me
About Me
My Vision
My Vision
Join me on a journey toward global freedom
Where travel becomes more than a destination. Through exploring diverse cultures, I’ve discovered a deep passion for international education and the transformative power of immersive experiences.
These adventures have redefined my sense of possibility, pushing the boundaries of what I once thought was achievable. This is exploration that transcends the ordinary.
I invite—and challenge—you to experience the world’s wonders in ways you never imagined. The sky isn’t the limit. It’s just the beginning.
Why This Work Matters
Research from the Consortium for Analysis of Student Success through International Education (CASSIE) shows that only around 8 % of first-generation college students study abroad. Let’s change this narrative and make these international opportunities more accessible for first generation students worldwide.
My purpose is to expand offerings (including faculty-led and short-term programs) and provide support services that appeal to students with financial barriers. Active representation matters, and let this website be proof that studying and living abroad is possible for you too.
Offered Services
Speaking from lived experience, I am here as a holistic resource to first-generation students looking for opportunities abroad. Contact me if you are interested in learning more or need additional assistance with the following:
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Application review
Personal statement feedback
Mock interviews
Q & A informational session
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Personal statement feedback
Scholarship resources/referrals
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Referral resources (ex: US Fulbright Exchange, Gilman Scholarship, Critical Language Scholarship, etc).
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Graduate school education (ex: MPA, MPH, MSW, etc)
Testimonials
“Hanan consistently demonstrates respect by valuing the contributions of others and fostering a collaborative environment. She is committed to creating the best experiences for our students and approaches every challenge with a positive, solutions-focused attitude. Her supportive spirit and dedication truly make a difference and do not go unnoticed”
— Anastasia Tahou University of Rochester International Services
“Hanan has been an outstanding partner and collaborator over the past year. She has provided consistent support for student organizations and also demonstrated a high level of support for international students through attending many ISO events. She has served as a judge for the Global Photo Contest and organizer for the Lunar New Year event. Her consistent availability for collaboration, attendance at campus events, and service to the university demonstrate to all students that she is open and supportive during their time at the University of Rochester. The University of Rochester is lucky to have such a welcoming and supportive student support staff member”
— Nathaniel Bloemke University of Rochester Global Engagement
“Hanan Allen exemplifies resilience. While working alongside her in the Peace Corps, I saw her creatively navigate and overcome several obstacles to achieve success in her community. Her problem-solving skills are sharp, and her persistent positive attitude will surely be an asset to any team she joins”
— Kylie Smith Peace Corps Fiji