Michael Walsh's Study Abroad Experience
Major: Computer Science and Engineering
Expected Graduation Year: 2017
Host Country and Name of School: Scotland, University of Edinburgh
Biggest Challenges: New school environment, adjusting to the culture
Biggest Surprises: The weather was nicer than I expected, and the accents and food were not as bad as I expected
Best Moments: Making friends from across the globe, travelling all over Europe
Were the academics a problem? Somewhat. Adjusting to a radically different school was difficult. Everything, from the teaching style, to the number of students, to the testing system, was different from how Santa Clara does things.
Advice for those thinking of studying abroad? Do it. It will change your life. It was the high water mark so far of my life, and chances are it will be just as great for you.
Anything else you'd like to share? If you do go abroad, don't blow off classes; just because there isn't homework doesn't mean there isn't work you should do before the final!