Caitlin V. Bliss '08Peer Advisor
In this day and age of globalization, it is impossible to engage in a realistic university education without immersing yourself in a new culture abroad. I knew that, especially as a Political Science major with a strong interest in International Relations and Public Policy, I had to experience what it was like to live outside of the United States. I wanted to experience a different sort of program, one that would enable me to understand not only the culture of one country, but its role in the global arena. With that idea in mind, I chose to commit to a unique program called IES European Union which was based in the center of Europe: Freiburg, Germany. This program promised a strong political science emphasis and an enticing travel-oriented agenda where our program was to travel the European Union in a structured way through field study trips. This extensive travel outlined by my program contributed the most to my overall cultural and academic knowledge. Since the program focused on the details of the European Union, I was able to explore Eastern and Western Europe through invigorating cultural immersions and institutional meetings at places such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization in Geneva, the European Parliament in Strasbourg, NATO headquarters in Brussels and the Foreign Ministry in Tallinn, Estonia. Talking to officials and representatives directly brought to life current issues in an engaging dialogue, something that no text book could ever provide. Besides Freiburg’s unique excursions, I liked the idea of setting off on my own without the safety and comfort of SCU company. Not only would I be living with native Germans, I would also be traveling with an entirely new group of international students. My decision to participate in this program truly enhanced my abroad experience.
What have you learned from your study abroad experiences that have contributed to your personal, vocational, or academic growth? Studying abroad changed my perspective on the world. For the first time, I got to experience living in a different culture as opposed to seeing a culture from the outside tourist lens. Feeling outside of my comfort zone surrounded by people who didn’t even speak my language was a humbling and eye-opening experience. In addition to expanding my cultural radar, my semester abroad reignited my interest in international relations and accelerated my learning upon returning to SCU.
Your advice to prospective study abroad students? Most importantly, don’t be afraid to try something new. Studying abroad is an experience that you can really individualize; it’s about personal growth and learning about cultures with a new perspective. Don’t let your friends dictate what you want to do: dare to experiment and do a different program or plan a unique trip. Make the experience your own. Also, I would recommend preparing for your cultural immersion as best you can. Familiarize yourself with languages, local newspapers, traditions and even daily attire! I found that by trying to adapt to the culture and way of life abroad, I was able to truly become a part of the community. The world has so much to offer in enriching one’s college experience! |
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