What I’ve Learned in Boston: My Experiences

Before coming to Boston, I had never been abroad. So, when I arrived at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), I was understandably nervous. That quickly changed when I realized that people from all over the world come here to study. For me, that’s what gives the city its special charm – it feels like a crossroads of different cultures and ideas. It’s very common to hear multiple languages in a single café, and conversations move easily from science to ​art to policy.

Boston is a city where ​history and innovation coexist effortlessly. As a scientist, I find it remarkable that so many renowned research institutes and universities are located in such a small area. These include Harvard, MIT, Berklee College of Music, and the women’s university of Wellesley College. These institutions have a significant impact on everyday life in the city. For example, you could attend a public lecture at Harvard in the morning, participate in a panel discussion at MIT that same day, and meet a Nobel Prize winner or renowned professor on your way to the café.

Bostonians are very proud of their city and its significant role in the formation and development of the U.S. Despite not knowing anyone beforehand, I was welcomed here with open arms. People in Boston are ​very passionate about sports. No matter where they meet, they talk about their sports teams, especially the legendary Red Sox baseball team and the New England Patriots football team that was a finalist at the Super Bowl in 2026. I must admit, however, that I myself am more enthusiastic about ​soccer. But I don’t say that too loudly in Boston.

In Boston, the seasons greatly impact your life, and the ​differences are extreme. I find that absolutely inspiring. You have to build up resilience for the freezing winters during the wonderful, warm summers. However, my favorite season is fall, when the leaves change color in September and October, and Boston seems to glow.

Boston is located by the sea and is also very much shaped by water in other ways. The Mystic River cuts through the city, as does the Charles River further south, where MIT is located. Across the way, I am drawn to the ​Charles River Esplanade, a place that is very important to me and which I visit again and again with friends. Here, depending on your mood, you can play sports, go for a walk, or simply look out at the water at one of the docks. For me, this place is a beautiful constant in an ever-changing world.

Boston is best explored on foot, and of course the famous Freedom Trail, which takes you past places that are essential to American history, is a must. For dinner, we head to the North End, an area heavily influenced by Italian immigrants. That’s why some of the best Italian restaurants in the city can be found there. La Famiglia Giorgio’s is one of my favorites; the food here is inspired by Roman cuisine, and the portions are generous. Incidentally, Boston is not only known for seafood classics such as clam chowder and lobster rolls, but also for the ​Italian dessert classic cannoli. In my opinion, the best ones are available at Bova’s Bakery.

Maya Nasr came to Boston in 2014 to study aerospace engineering at MIT. She has since earned her doctorate and is now conducting research on satellite data for methane emissions at Harvard University. Nasr previously worked on the planning and surface operations of the NASA Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover mission. 

1. Hands-on science at the Museum of Science: If you’re interested in research and innovation, a visit to the Museum of Science on the Charles River is well worth your time. This large science museum features interactive exhibits on topics such as space exploration, technology, and the environment, bringing many complex scientific concepts to life in an engaging way.
2. Browsing for books in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood: For a peaceful stroll, we recommend the Beacon Hill neighborhood with its narrow brick streets and historic houses. A visit to the Beacon Hill Books & Café is particularly charming, where literature, architecture, and café culture come together in a uniquely cozy atmosphere.
3. Explore the islands off the coast: If you have a little more time, a trip to the Boston Harbor Islands is well worth it. You can reach several islands by ferry, featuring hiking trails, historic forts, and beautiful views of the Boston skyline – a lovely contrast to the fast-paced city.