Studying abroad in Ecuador helped me become a more empathetic, culturally sensitive individual--a transformation that would have been hard to create on campus. The relationships that I have made with my host family and peers taught me how to listen to others and how to be patient with myself. I found confidence that I never knew I had, and now I am ready to use my experiences to change my community for the better.

Jessica, Ecuador semester program

I worked for the Mae Fah Luang Foundation in Chiang Rai, Thailand, on in internship project to create a product line of sustainably dyed clothing out of the local natural materials. While at first it was a bit frightening to travel across the world alone, when I got there, I soon learned how to navigate a new country and became friends with the other interns who were there from all over the world. Because of this internship, I had the opportunity to work for MFL, an organization on the forefront of sustainable rural development and humanitarian care.

Hannah, Thailand internship

I don't know what I expected to find in Oaxaca before I left, but nothing could have prepared me for the diversity of language, nature, and life that I found there. Making friends, seeing a new part of the world, connecting with communities outside of your own; these experiences gave me a deeper understanding of Oaxaca, but also of myself and my place in the world.

Mathew, Mexico, Faculty-led summer program

'One’s destination is never a place, but rather a new way of looking at things.' This quote by Henry Miller is one of my favorite ways to sum up my study abroad experience. When I boarded a plane to head across the waters, I thought that Sorrento, Italy would be my only destination. This town along the Amalfi Coast took me out of my comfort zone and gifted me with new insights and perspectives, which is the destination that lasts a lifetime.

Amanda, Italy faculty-led program

I lived a totally different life in Morocco. I was speaking Arabic all of the time, spending most of my time with Moroccans, and navigating a place that was initially so unfamiliar. Going to a foreign country really opens your eyes to just how different things can be, even minuscule details such as the way you open windows (never figured that one out). It teaches you to be more flexible and accepting.

Sierra, Arabic Flagship program

Ireland could not have felt more like home to me. I participated in a summer internship program where I worked at a fund accounting firm four days of the week. On Fridays we'd go on excursions where we learned about Irish culture. Everyone always talks about how great the Irish folk are, but you'll never truly believe them until you experience it for yourself. By the end of my program, I had furthered my understanding of international business and the importance of cultural immersion.

Cally, Irish Internship