Stories From Abroad

     

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    Hear first-hand stories from students who have built essential international skills by studying, volunteering, interning, teaching or working abroad. This is your portal to career-boosting international adventures!

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    Stories From Abroad

    90
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    2
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    1736
    26
    Asia (26)
    1735
    4
    Australia, New Zealand & Oceania (4)
    1888
    1
    Central America & the Caribbean (1)
    1734
    3
    Eastern Europe & Russia (3)
    1737
    2
    Middle East & North Africa (2)
    1731
    5
    North America (includes Mexico) (5)
    1732
    9
    South America (9)
    1738
    11
    Sub-Saharan Africa (11)
    1733
    31
    Western Europe (31)
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    2099
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    Build Experience in School (1)
    2100
    13
    Intern Abroad (13)
    2101
    6
    Learn A Language Abroad (6)
    2102
    34
    Study Abroad (34)
    2103
    16
    Teach English Abroad (16)
    2104
    7
    Travel Smarts (7)
    2105
    15
    Volunteer Abroad (15)
    2106
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    Work Abroad (5)
    2107
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    Working Holiday (5)
    90
    10923
    Insight And Education In Korea
    51
    11557
    Un stage au Cambodge (Français)
    52
    9812
    Caring And Career Skills In Belize
    53
    10157
    Changing Course In China
    54
    9740
    Sports, Study And Fun In France
    55
    9778
    Study And Adventure In New Zealand
    56
    9755
    People, Places And Passionate Volunteering In Peru
    57
    9738
    Living For The Moment In Valencia
    58
    11850
    The Warmest Welcome in Guatemala
    59
    9783
    Off The Beaten Path In Africa
    60
    9757
    Teaching And Learning In Tanzania
    61
    9773
    Independent In India
    62
    9741
    Adapting To Work In Peru
    63
    9746
    A Cross-Cultural Co-Op In West Africa
    64
    9789
    Loving Life In Lyon
    65
    9784
    Skill-Building In Bonn
    66
    9774
    Gaga For Ghana!
    67
    9745
    An Unforgettable Adventure In Nanjing
    68
    9792
    Rolling With The Punches In Seoul
    69
    10188
    Now Or Never In Colombia
    70
    11904
    Enthusiasm, Education and Experience in Greece
    71
    9807
    Fast Friendship In Korea
    72
    9790
    Design And Dining In Korea
    73
    9758
    Learning The Local Ways Of Addis Ababa
    74
    10163
    English Teaching In Eastern Europe
    75
    9768
    Going Solo In Spain!
    76
    14483
    Finding Home, By Teaching Abroad
    77
    9743
    Hooked On Volunteering!
    78
    10153
    China, South Africa And Beyond!
    79
    14088
    An Eye-Opening Experience Teaching in South Korea
    80
    9751
    A Canadian Globe-Trotter Visits The US
    81
    9737
    Passionate About Panama
    82
    10192
    Out And About In Paris
    83
    9780
    A Year In Marvelous Mexico!
    84
    9763
    A Professional Visit To Vietnam
    85
    9764
    Do It Yourself! A Proactive Intern In Rome
    86
    10143
    A Warm Welcome In Mexico
    87
    9756
    Springtime In Spain
    88
    9782
    Making The Most Of Milano
    89
    9761
    Communicating Creatively In Spain
    90
    90
    Drew
    Teaching Abroad in Korea
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on The International Workplace
    “
    As a foreigner, I'm at the bottom of the hierarchy chain. The good news is that I am flexible and quickly adapting to the culture. It's just how Korean society functions, and I'm along for the ride!”
    His thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    I consider myself a very adventurous eater, but I was put to the test when they served duck feet and octopus soup. I was a little intimidated, but I got over it and it wasn’t all that bad!”
    His thoughts on Motivation
    “
    What really kicked off my travel addiction was studying abroad in Prague. It was the single best experience of my entire life. ”
    Marie-Josée
    Interned in Cambodia
    University of Ottawa
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The International Workplace
    “
    En apprenant à écouter mes collègues et en les observant lorsqu’ils discutaient entre eux, j’ai rapidement su adapter mon comportement et mon discours afin que tout le monde se sente plus à l’aise.”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    Cette expérience m’a donné plus confiance en moi-même et m’a montré que la persévérance et la motivation sont des qualités qui peuvent nous mener bien loin!”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    Même si je n’avais pas le profil idéal pour mon poste, je me suis rendue jusqu’au bout du processus de sélection et j’ai été récompensée pour mes efforts.”
    Lindsey
    Volunteered in Belize
    Flagler College
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Homestays
    “
    My host mother was a stay-at-home mom, so I was fortunate enough to spend time with her, learning about her life and Belizean culture.”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Keep an open mind and try everything at least once, whether it’s a new food, dance or excursion.”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    My return was full of mixed emotions. On one hand, I was looking forward to seeing my family and friends; but I was sad to say goodbye to my host family.”
    Anthony
    Taught English in China
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    I took a week-long course to get my TESOL certificate, had a contract lined up the following week, and within a month I was on a plane to Yangshuo!”
    His thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    The more a teacher assimilates into the local culture, the easier budgeting becomes!”
    His thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    By getting out and meeting people, exploring and becoming part of the culture you far more likely to enjoy it.”
    His thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    From day one I was treated like a professional and a friend. Everyone seemed thankful to have me here helping them become part of the global village.”
    His thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    I came to China with a return air ticket and $1,000 in the bank. But I spent my last couple of months at home living like a miser to become 100% debt free BEFORE leaving the country!”
    Sheila
    Studied in France
    University of Waterloo
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I saw a poster in a building one day and went in to talk to the exchange coordinator, and that's all it took to get me hooked. ”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    It was not always easy, but the best way to look at things is to think “it's not weird, it's different”. ”
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    In France I learned to take time, enjoy a glass of wine, talk, and enjoy meals that lasted over an hour. At home, within 20 minutes we were cleaning up! ”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    One thing that really helped was getting my parents to read a part of MyWorldAbroad related to re-entry shock.”
    Lacy
    Studied in New Zealand
    Lebanon Valley College
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    I knew studying abroad would stand out on my résumé and give me a competitive edge when I started looking for work after graduation. ”
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    Having a clear idea of why you want to go abroad and identifying possible challenges you may encounter will better prepare you for your experience abroad. ”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    My friend and I came home with NZ-inspired tattoos… which was a pretty big surprise – especially to our parents! ”
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    Surrounding yourself with locals is crucial in order to understand and adapt to a culture. ”
    Nichole
    Learned a Language & Volunteered in Peru
    San Diego State University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    I knew that while having a friend to accompany me would have made it more comfortable, going by myself would make me stronger, and force me to interact with everyone that I encountered. ”
    Her thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    If I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone, I’d never have discovered so many amazing places. ”
    Her thoughts on The International Workplace
    “
    Sometimes I didn’t feel totally welcomed, but I knew that they probably had reservations about a young foreigner working in their hospital. I went out of my way to introduce myself and ask if I could help them.”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    Saying goodbye was very hard.  The experienced sparked my passion for international philanthropic travel and changed my life for the better.  ”
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    Nearly every day, there was a festival going on in the town square. I was blown away by their overwhelming national pride.”
    Omar
    Studied & Learned a Language in Spain
    CUNY: Hunter College
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    For me, eating my way through a place's cuisine is the ideal way to understand its history and culture.”
    His thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    My only advice for completing the paperwork is to start early and keep an organized file of the applications, keeping checklists and staying aware of the deadlines. ”
    His thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    I find myself still thinking about it constantly, several times every day. I'm legitimately obsessed. ”
    His thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Remember why you're studying abroad in the first place: to immerse yourself in a new culture and rhythm.”
    His thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    That first month abroad was like riding a euphoric wave of feeling liberated and suspended in the moment. ”
    His thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Traveling has affirmed my belief that it's paramount to disconnect from technology sometimes and allow the natural impact to seep in. ”
    Bushra
    Volunteered in Guatemala
    Carleton University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    My travels allow me to engage skill sets critical for the modern world but are rarely used in our day-to-day lives.”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    My volunteer work and experiences abroad have solidified for me that any future career I undertake needs to involve interacting with people. ”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    As someone who struggles with insect-related phobias, I was surprised how easily we humans are able to overcome fears and hesitations during challenging experiences.”
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    Being invited to partake in a sacred Mayan ceremony showed me the willingness of the local people to welcome newcomers. I'll carry those ideals of welcoming and inclusion forward with me throughout my life.”
    Jimmy
    Traveled in Mozambique
    University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    Cultural activities were very fulfilling because they allowed me to interact with nationals on a peer level. It temporarily took the attention away from my “American-ness.” ”
    His thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    The goal is not to become a different person but maybe to talk openly about your differences and to find activities where your race and nationality are not the focus. ”
    His thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    You feel as though your trip will only ever exist within you, which is simultaneously empowering and discouraging. ”
    His thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    I miss not knowing exactly what each day would hold. I miss feeling like I was doing something important. I miss being in a place where I could meet a hundred new people in a day. ”
    Jaqueline
    Volunteered in Tanzania
    SUNY: University at Albany
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    It was a little overwhelming, but I was able to narrow my search when I really focused on what I wanted out of the experience. ”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    At first there were aspects that I didn’t really like or agree with, but I kept an open mind. I think that’s the best way to overcome culture shock. ”
    Her thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    It took me about a month to really start to understand, accept, and finally enjoy the culture.”
    Her thoughts on Communicating Abroad
    “
    In Tanzania I didn’t have my iPhone or laptop; and it was enjoyable not constantly being bombarded with emails, te1t messages, and phone calls! ”
    Her thoughts on Homestays
    “
    I appreciate them so much for welcoming me into their home and making me feel like I was their own daughter. ”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    I realized after the trip that I eventually want to find a job that involves traveling. I really want to see and e1plore other parts of the world!”
    Katie
    Volunteered in India
    St. Ambrose University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I wanted to go somewhere that would make me step out of my comfort zone. I needed to prove to myself that I could be independent. ”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    I was so impressed by how these children saw what was truly important. It showed me how much people living in poverty value everything they have – especially basic items that we simply take for granted.”
    Her thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    Many people stared at us even though we were covered head to toe in their traditional clothing, trying to show our respect, and attempting to blend in. ”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    It absolutely astounded me that a family with so little would give up the few resources that they had for strangers. This generosity was seen again and again with the people of Vrindavan. ”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    My time abroad proved to me that I really can be independent, and I don’t think many other experiences could have done that for me.”
    Sheila
    Interned in Peru
    University of Waterloo
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    I just had to be truthful, and really figure out what I wanted to get out of the experience. ”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    One thing I noticed was that timing didn’t seem to matter to locals. Things would start late, and you always seemed to end up eating REALLY late!”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    When I arrived in Peru my Spanish was not excellent, but I wasn't afraid to try, and speak, and make mistakes, and keep trying.”
    Her thoughts on Communicating Abroad
    “
    Learning how to adapt your body language, vocabulary and tone of voice is key to good cross-cultural communication.”
    May-Lynne
    Interned in Ghana
    University of Waterloo
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The International Workplace
    “
    I wanted to work at a small organization because it’s the best way to get a lot of responsibility and the most field work. A lot of larger organizations offered administrative desk jobs, but I knew I wanted to be in the field.”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    While Ghana is very professional and is becoming more developed, many cultural factors (like religion and household seniority) play major factors in the workplace. ”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    As a woman, if I wanted to help out with carrying things or running an errand, an unwilling male would be encouraged to instead. ”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Don’t be afraid! Don’t feel left out. Don’t be a foreigner. Learn the language. Be a local. ”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Entering another country means you must adjust to their way or living, not the other way around.”
    Kristina
    Studied in France
    Carleton University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    Studying international business was a good reason to go abroad and experience how globalization has affected the business world.”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    The visa application process is long and confusing. There was definitely a lot of confusion along the way. But don’t be discouraged; it’s completely doable.”
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    Read a lot! Read about the history, culture, and people of the city you’re planning on staying in. Gather as much information as you possibly can. ”
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    Through Facebook I signed up for a few exchange student groups in my host cities, which allowed me to participate in events they organized and get to know a lot of people.”
    Her thoughts on Language Learning
    “
    The big success for me was the fact that my language skills improved tremendously. I came to Lyon barely being able to keep up with a conversation and left being able to speak with ease.”
    Her thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    During my stay I was able to network a lot and meet not only other students, but also professionals.”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    My travels also improved my communication skills, my cultural understanding, independence, leadership skills, and helped me develop a thicker skin.”
    Erika
    Worked in Germany
    McGill University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    I was surprised how integrated I became within my adopted community. I ended up getting to know a lot of locals. I was invited to a wedding and even joined a marching band!”
    Her thoughts on Language Learning
    “
    For me it was really a matter of building my confidence in the language, because simple things such as making a phone call felt like big obstacles initially. ”
    Sylvia
    Studied in Ghana
    SUNY: University at Albany
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    Since I was a little girl, my dream has been to travel the world. I’ve always wanted to fill my passport and have stamps from countries in all seven continents. ”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    All I could talk about was Ghana: how much I had fallen in love with the country, and how much I wanted to go back, this time to do humanitarian work and be a volunteer”
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    The second I walked in to a slave castle and could really smell Ghana’s past, it hit me: that’s when I truly realized “Wow Sylvia, we’re in Ghana.” ”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    Ghana had become a part of me – as cliché as that may sound. I had learned so much and had so much fun that I wanted to stay forever. ”
    Her thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    Witnessing great poverty in Africa made me want to help in the progress of a Third World country. Ghana changed my life, and helped me find my career path. ”
    Ashley
    Studied in China
    Stony Brook University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    A million miles away from my family, in a foreign land, with a language that is 100% different from English? Sounds like an adventure to me! ”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    If you looked at students from a distance, you could tell which were Americans from far away!”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    Don’t be afraid to call the people in charge of a program to bombard them with questions: it will help narrow down your options and find the best one.”
    Yenny
    Taught English in South Korea
    Wilfrid Laurier
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    The decision to leave my family and country for a year was just the ticket my mind and soul needed to adjust to a career lifestyle. ”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    The key to finding a job online is to be available to talk at almost any time. In some cases, if you don’t respond to a recruiter within a day, they will move on. ”
    Her thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    It is my eighth month here in Seoul, but if you asked me in my first month whether I thought I would still be here now, I would have said no.”
    Jessica
    Volunteered & Taught English in Colombia
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    I poured over the Internet. Searching for the perfect organization became my second job. Knowing exactly what I wanted from a program made it easy for me to sort through all the organizations out there.”
    Her thoughts on Communicating Abroad
    “
    I got to know so many people just through body language. I learned that I could follow a conversation through gestures, facial expressions and tone.”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    Living in a different culture for such a long time changes your perception, which was apparent on my return home. I looked at everything differently and challenged the things that I considered normal.”
    Katie
    Studied & Volunteered in Greece
    University of Wisconsin: Oshkosh
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    I wanted to find a trip that would create meaning for my major, and help with my goals. I knew that as a future educator, this could be incredibly beneficial for my career.”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    It’s important to have a go-with-the-flow attitude, and to be able to adjust when plans might not always go the best they can.”
    Her thoughts on Communicating Abroad
    “
    It was such an empowering experience to actually get through to someone who speaks an entirely different language than you, and for you actually to understand each other.”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    I started almost a year in advance. By starting early, the process seemed more exciting than stressful, because you are getting ready at your own pace and building towards a remarkable trip!”
    Chee
    Studied in Korea
    University of Wisconsin: Oshkosh
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    The biggest surprise was how big Seoul was. Coming from a small town and being thrown into this busy, chaotic metropolis was an adventure in itself.”
    His thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    To truly understand some things you must experience them first-hand. Reading a book can only tell you so much.”
    His thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    I quickly found that eating out in Korea is one of the cheapest and most fun things to do. There are always places to eat and you never eat alone.”
    His thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    I missed having my own room. I had to get used to sharing space – but it was just another way of making friends.”
    Mai See
    Studied in South Korea
    University of Wisconsin: Oshkosh
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    Studying in South Korea had always been a personal goal, so when my school finally offered the program, I knew I had to sign up.”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    I really wanted to make sure that the application went smoothly. I never doubted myself and I was never negative about all the work I had to put in.”
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    I took out a loan and worked a lot before I left. I made sure to save money from each paycheck to put into my Korea fund.”
    Celine
    Interned in Ethiopia
    UBC: Sauder School of Business
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I've always wanted to go to Africa and see for myself what it’s really like there; and being a commerce student, I also find it interesting to see how different countries conduct business.”
    Her thoughts on Communicating Abroad
    “
    If there was a misunderstanding, we could always use our hands or try with English, but we always tried in Amharic (the local language) first! ”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    The most important thing for me was to go with an open mind, and have zero expectations. You have to adapt and things aren’t always the way you want them to be. ”
    Lindsey
    Taught English in Georgia
    Flagler College
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I wanted to teach English abroad to build my resume, travel and immerse myself in a unique culture.”
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    The soccer club was a great opportunity for me to get to know my students better and help them build skills.”
    Her thoughts on Homestays
    “
    I developed a close relationship with my Georgian family and remain in contact with them through email and Skype.”
    Ashley
    Studied in Spain
    University of Evansville
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Instead of looking at it as something that would take me away from the familiar, I decided to view it as an adventure that I was fortunate to experience. ”
    Her thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    All of a sudden I wasn't having fun any more. I was awakening from the dreamy version of studying abroad, and what I saw when I finally opened my eyes was the plain truth.  ”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    My experience turned out to be a success because I made it my own, and I grew to accept the city’s flaws along with its charms.”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    I was apprehensive about returning because I had learned so much and wanted others to recognize that I had changed. ”
    Seth
    Teach Abroad in Hong Kong
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    I like knowing I've lived in a place where things are done very differently, and everything still functions.”
    His thoughts on The International Workplace
    “
    Respect the way they run their classrooms abroad. And try to fit in.”
    His thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    Simply put: When I'm teaching abroad, I feel at home.”
    Uma
    Volunteered in Guatemala & Peru
    College of Saint Elizabeth
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I am originally from Guyana. Growing up in a Third World country gave me a real insight into how hard things can be. Now I want to give back as much as I can. ”
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    There are no excuses! If you have a burning desire to serve, you can make it happen. ”
    Her thoughts on Homestays
    “
    Going with my volunteer program, we stayed in a local host home and ate traditional cuisine three times a day. This approach to going abroad made me feel like I was much more a part of the culture than I would have been staying at a hotel. ”
    Megan
    Studied in China
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    At the end of the day, we have more in common than we think! It was fun to celebrate the similarities and recognize the differences.”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    Sometimes students psych themselves up too much, anticipating a tough transition. Be flexible, patient and write down everything you remember from your trip. ”
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    Plan early and be up-front about your goals with your academic advisors.”
    Tina
    Teach Abroad in South Korea
    University of Waterloo
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    When it comes down to deciding which country and program to choose, do a ton of research and conduct informational interviews to find out what’s best for you.”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    While abroad, I realized my passion for teaching and developed a greater understanding and appreciation for every teacher around the world.”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    You will encounter difficult situations abroad, but it's important to stay open-minded to new experiences, people, cultures and perspectives.”
    Her thoughts on Communicating Abroad
    “
    Remember to use body language to communicate! Smiles are universal – they work with anyone, anywhere. ”
    Erin
    Studied in the USA
    Mount Royal University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    My exchanges helped give me clarity on my educational path. I really believe that when I look back on my years as a student, it will be my exchanges that stand out.”
    Her thoughts on Personal Growth
    “
    My study abroad term resulted in a little longer in school to complete degree requirements, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! ”
    Mara
    Interned in Panama
    Centennial College
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on The International Workplace
    “
    Interning was much more about my personal growth as a global citizen rather than prowess with MS Office or project management tools.”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    It's all about perspective! Adapt and just go with the flow, or risk losing your mind.”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Be sensitive, but don't take anything too seriously. It isn't personal, it's just the way things are.”
    Heather
    Studied in France
    Indiana University Bloomington
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Homestays
    “
    To stay on track and not go over the amount I had from the loan, I chose the homestay option. It allowed me to save money on food and practice more French.”
    Her thoughts on Homestays
    “
    I found that the homestay portion was imperative to improving my French. My host parents did not speak English, so this forced me to use my French skills.”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Everything is a challenge when you are somewhere new that you've never been before – but an exciting challenge!”
    Heather
    Studied & Learned a Language in Mexico
    University of British Columbia
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Taking It All In
    “
    Volunteering at a local primary school for blind children was a good challenge to my Spanish language skills and gave me an opportunity to step outside the upper-class world I was living in. ”
    Her thoughts on Language Learning
    “
    If you’re going on exchange to learn a language, make a point of speaking it from the time you arrive. If you fall into the trap of speaking English, you’ll never get comfortable in the host language.”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    The Day of the Dead celebration made a real impact on me. It was wonderful to see people building shrines around their loved ones' graves rather than carving jack-o-lanterns to scare away spirits.”
    Behrang
    Worked in Vietnam
    University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    Talking with other foreigners gave me insider advice on how foreign job searches are conducted. ”
    His thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    Have confidence! There really is no reason to be shy with superiors or strangers. ”
    His thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    In most cities in Asia, you're constantly surrounded by people, severely limiting your "me time".”
    His thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    Network as much as you can so that when you do look for a serious job, the transition is more seamless and you know where the opportunities are.”
    Tanya
    Interned in Italy
    University of Wisconsin: Oshkosh
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Boosting Your Career
    “
    When I wanted to make a career change I looked back at what impacted me the most as an undergrad -- and that was studying abroad.”
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    I’m so glad that I started looking into it months before I had to travel, because that was an extensive process. ”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    There was no official application, just me taking an idea and running with it! ”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    By looking at my experiences as adventures instead of challenges, I shaped those experiences positively. ”
    Her thoughts on Communicating Abroad
    “
    The most important thing that I learned when 2087 was to take things with a grain of salt, be flexible, and laugh at your mistakes. It’s just as hard for the people you are trying to communicate with as it is for you! ”
    Her thoughts on The Application Process
    “
    My number one tip would be not to give up on something you really want to do! I heard a lot of “no” before I finally heard “yes”! ”
    Mariah
    Volunteered in Mexico
    St. Ambrose University
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I absolutely love helping others. I’m very involved in a variety of volunteer experiences at home and I wanted to continue with this type of work while I was abroad.”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    I felt like my time abroad had gone by so fast. It was a dream that I wanted to keep dreaming.”
    Her thoughts on Language Learning
    “
    By putting myself out of my comfort zone I was forced to speak the language. After my experience, I feel that studying abroad is one of the very best ways to learn a language.”
    Her thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    I always made sure to respect the different cultural values held by the locals: eating when and what they ate, greeting the way they did, and wearing the same types of clothes.”
    Ashley
    Studied in Spain
    Lebanon Valley College
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Homestays
    “
    What surprised me the most about my time abroad was the home-stay component. It had been the part that, at first, worried me the most, but it ended up being the most rewarding. ”
    Her thoughts on The Right Attitude
    “
    What do you need? The three c’s: confidence, creativity, and comfy shoes!”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    I was always greeted with friendly kisses on the cheek and hugs. This was unusual to me at first, coming from America where our typical greeting is a handshake. ”
    Her thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    All good things must come to end, but for now I have the photos and the memories to reflect on.”
    Davis
    Studied in Italy
    College of William and Mary
    Read His Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    His thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I didn’t make the final decision to go until two of my friends returned from their years abroad. I couldn’t resist their stories! ”
    His thoughts on First Impressions
    “
    At first, I was constantly excited; everything was so new and Italian. Every street was magnificent, every person European, every piece of clothing beautiful. ”
    His thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    At some point in June, I had a moment of pristine clarity: I was no longer the naïve, awkward American boy I had been when I arrived in September. ”
    His thoughts on Adaptation
    “
    Somehow I had integrated myself into the culture. And after months of freezing weather and many hardships, I had emerged a new person.”
    His thoughts on Language Learning
    “
    I studied hard. I completed a grammar workbook, I studied a dictionary and a book of verb conjugations, I listened to music, I read short novels, and I begged classmates to speak to me!”
    His thoughts on Coming Home
    “
    They acted as if I had never left, even though I was bursting with excitement about my year in Italy. I wanted to tell them EVERYTHING, but they couldn’t have been less interested. ”
    Emily
    Studied & Learned a Language in Spain
    SUNY: Oneonta
    Read Her Story From Abroad
    Previous Pause Next
    Her thoughts on Pre-Departure Preparation
    “
    It’s important to prepare yourself for the shock of being in a culture that’s completely different from your own. ”
    Her thoughts on Cultural Differences
    “
    Although Spanish culture is different from American culture, it doesn’t mean that either one is wrong or right. They are each unique.”
    Her thoughts on Motivation
    “
    I wasn't making as much progress in Spanish class as I thought I should have been, so the best option for me was to become fully immersed in the culture – where I’d have no choice but to communicate in Spanish!”

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