Spring 2017 Participant
I learned the importance of not creating false or unrealistic expectations. I went into my program/study abroad experience with little expectations of what I felt I was getting myself into and that was perhaps the best thing I did. It made it easier to adapt, find friends, be flexible with different academic experiences, etc. Not getting caught up prior to arriving in a "fairytale" or even a "scary place" made things so much more open-minded and exciting. There were several obstacles that I was naturally faced with, but by not having some sort of preconceived notion of how studying abroad would/should be, I was able to enjoy my experience to the fullest and take things as they came. I never felt disappointed or let down because of this.
Meredith L Johnson, Fall 2016 Participant
It was really interesting to experience school in another country.
Spring 2017 Participant
Being able to achieve things on my own, so far from home was one of the most rewarding elements of my study abroad experience. I had a great support system but it was even more rewarding being able to thrive in an environment where I was constantly challenged as I had been thrown into a new culture and country.