Email:
cmcarr@scu.edu Colleen Carr '07Peer Advisor
Reflections on my Study Abroad Experience Fifteen years ago, a bodily phenomenon occurred while my oldest brother studied abroad at Sophia University in Tokyo. Upon his arrival, he joined a few of his fellow classmates for lunch just outside the airport. As a relatively novice sushi-eater, he was enticed by the green condiment on his plate. Having likened the garnish to guacamole, he slathered a generous dollop on his sushi roll. To his surprise, his mouth was immediately assaulted by the wasabi. The heat flooded into his face instantly, sending a surge of blood so intense that a pimple on his forehead (which, may I add, was exceptionally large) burst in the presence of the group of potential, future-friends. Despite my skepticism regarding the likelihood of wasabi have the ability to burst pimples, those who witnessed this incident confirm its occurrence to this day. I apologize for the graphic nature of the story, but my purpose in mentioning it is to highlight the lasting bond that studying abroad can foster. Not only was my brother able to befriend those strangers who dined with him during his first hour in Tokyo, but these individuals became lifelong friends (who take great pleasure in retelling their first encounter with my brother). Evidently, the abroad experience is one of considerable bonding. Having gained such an impression from my brother, I entered my own abroad experience anticipating the unexpected and an opportunity to meet new friends. My six months in Europe was a whirlwind of exploration and yes, some legitimate academic work. When people ask me, “how was your time abroad?” I can only respond, “Awesome”…It truly is an extraordinary experience. As always, I am more than happy to share my own experiences as well as hear the concerns and questions of anyone considering a semester abroad. Feel free to contact me. |
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