- Study Abroad Student
What was your international education experience like?
I studied abroad my junior year of undergrad at the National University of Ireland, Galway. At a time when more and more students began going on shorter experiences, I chose to go abroad for a full academic year. I quickly learned that the English spoken in Ireland may as well have been a completely different language. The academic framework was also very different but allowed me to grow my ability to be more autonomous and adaptable as a student. Living in a largely homogenous culture in the early 2000's as a biracial person was incredibly eye opening, and at times, very challenging. The experience was so impactful that, following my graduation from undergrad, I returned to work for a short time in Dublin.
What message do you have to share with students and community members about the importance of international education?
I believe that international education is so significant because it has the ability to affect people on a deeply personal level while also helping change attitudes on a global scale. The ripple effect of someone's experience abroad can have lasting effects throughout a social group, community, or larger institution once it is shared. My time abroad was one of the most impactful experiences of my undergrad and directly impacted the direction of my career. In my job, I love watching the unexpected that can occur while engaging in a new culture spark so much growth in our students. On a personal level, I met my husband while studying abroad and now raising dual citizens has been an exciting adventure that I never expected to come from my time abroad!