|
|
 |
STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM - STUDENT EXPERIENCES
Thomas Caldwell How did you select your Study/Intern Abroad location? I chose London for three reasons; first, I had already had the opportunity to visit the wonderful city some years earlier and with the ease of navigating and the feeling of safety I had never had in any city before, I knew when narrowing down locations that London was the place to spend my study abroad experience; second, I knew that London, like New York, was a cultural hub that would allow me to interact with people from many different European countries, and the opportunity to meet and work with these people was very appealing; and lastly, I also knew London was a travel hub that would allow me to travel to many different locations, something I had planned to pursue, especially when I realized how many places I wanted to see and the bargains available for flying from London. Why did you want to study or intern abroad? As a business major with the heart of a traveler, I knew study abroad was something I had to experience. The “Business World” is growing smaller everyday. With technology aiding businesses to perform worldwide commerce, the understanding of different cultures and how different countries perceive business is essential knowledge for business majors. The study and intern abroad experience would help me capture that knowledge first hand. Also, having visited many locations during summer months, I knew I enjoyed traveling far too much not to take the opportunity to travel to a foreign country and experience its culture, landscapes, and most importantly form relationships with its people. What was the highlight of the experience? My personal highlight was the opportunity I had to travel to Egypt for spring break. Visiting Egypt was one of the most memorable aspects of the experience for me, which included making friends with some Londoners, New Zealanders, and Australians, not to mention the Egyptians and Nubians that I met. I also got to read Shakespeare on a felucca coasting on the Nile with some background music provided by the magic of my ipod with speakers (this helped me gain friends!). It was the most wonderful and amazing vacation thus far in my life! What surprised you the most? What surprised me the most was ME! I was very surprised at how quickly I adapted to life in London , which included the very uncomfortable living arrangements of five guys to one (what felt like a 5 by 7) bedroom. This was not always ideal, but somehow it all seemed to work out. How has (or how might) this experience affect your major and future career? The experience has already affected my future in that with every employer and law school that has interviewed me, my experience abroad has been one of the first topics they have wished to discuss. Often I have found that my interviewers have also had travel experience, and talking about our travels became a great ice breaker that built a beneficial rapport. I honestly believe the experiences have definitely assisted me in getting employment opportunities. What would you tell students considering studying or interning abroad? First and foremost, MAKE A CHECKLIST! On this checklist write: what you want from the experience (specific classes you want to take, language skill development, travel opportunities, work experience, etc.), countries where you would like to live for a while, and a timetable in which you are to complete everything (research, application process, financial aid/building savings, etc.) Then, DO YOUR RESEARCH! Find programs that match your checklist (PS Mrs. Farmer is very helpful in this step). Also, it is very important to know about your country before you go, even if this means researching all the countries that interest you. And lastly, DON'T GET DISCOURAGED! The study abroad experience is worth it! Don't let frustration over finding a program, money, or pre-departure anxiety allow you to miss out on this amazing lifetime and life changing opportunity. |
|
