I’m an upcoming senior majoring in creative writing and linguistics. I was drawn to this Bookpacking experience as an opportunity to learn more about the rich history of Western Europe and how people of various classes mobilized to achieve social change. I have always heard great things about Les Miserables and A Tale of Two Cities, and so I found this to be the perfect chance to read these texts right where they were written. As a Pakistani American, I am especially interested in understanding diaspora experiences and the lives of immigrants and their families especially as they relate to class. On this note, I’m super excited to see Brick Lane in London and experience the incredible international cuisine of the city. In Paris, I look forward to seeing the stunning architecture of Versailles and the various cathedrals and museums.