Who better to ask about studying abroad than a fellow student who's been there, done that? Visit the Study Abroad Office in Young Hall, room 105 to meet our Peer Advisors. Call 494-2383 for their specific work hours.
Major: Data Science
Program: Purdue Sydney Internship Program
Location: Sydney, Australia
What was your favorite part about studying abroad?
My favorite part about studying abroad was being able to experience a country that I never thought I would be able to visit. My program allowed me to intern abroad in Sydney, Australia, so I could explore a new, iconic city while also staying on track with my professional and career goals. Additionally, living abroad together with the other students in the program allowed us to grow very close, like a family. Meeting such amazing people and the shared experiences we all had together only made my time abroad more enjoyable. Choosing to study abroad was definitely one of the best decisions I've made!
Major: Environmental and Ecological Engineering
Program: Universidad San Francisco de Quito
Location: Quito, Ecuador
What was a unique experience you had while abroad?
I got to travel to Cuenca with a group of friends I met in Ecuador for our 4-day break for Carnaval. We left Quito and took a 10-hour long bus ride (only $12!) to the beautiful city of Cuenca. The first day we went to all the small markets across town, listened to live concerts being performed the whole day, and ate the traditional cuisine. The second day was spent mainly with parades, where we got relentlessly sprayed with water and foam. I avoided all the eggs, but some people in my group weren’t as lucky. For our final day we hiked in Parque Nacional Cajas and relaxed in the few shops still open for the holiday. It was an event I would’ve never imagined existing and am thankful that my study abroad program gave me the opportunity to experience it.
Major: Law and Society and Spanish
Minor: Psychology and Italian Studies
Program: Universidad de Carlos III (UC3M) (exchange)
Location: Madrid, Spain
What advice would you give to another student about studying abroad?
I would say not give up. Even when the circumstances seem to withhold you from the possibility of studying abroad, there is always some opportunity out there for you to take advantage of. One just needs to look for it and apply. I believed I was not able to study abroad due to financial circumstances and the application itself looked daunting. I am not a U.S. citizen, and I am a first-generation student. I felt like it was close to impossible to not only convince my immigrant parents that I could go abroad, but also believe in myself that I am capable and independent enough to start this journey. Thankfully, I soon found scholarships such as Global Leaps and Purdue Moves that helped make this dream of mine a possibility. So, stay open-minded, look for opportunities, and persevere through the moments of uncertainty.
Major: Business Analytics and Information Management
Program: IES Milan & Bocconi University
Location: Milan, Italy
What was your favorite part about studying abroad?
My favorite part about studying abroad was the people I met and the unique experiences I had. When you choose to study abroad you won’t just meet people from your destination country but rather you become surrounded by peers from all over the world each with a different perspective and unique experiences. Also, study abroad provides you the opportunity to travel while you are young and each trip you go on gives you a new experience you never thought you would have and memories that last a lifetime.
Major: Environmental Engineering and Spanish
Programs: CIEE Liberal Arts, International Perspectives in Water Sciences and Management
Locations: Seville, Spain; Delhi, India
What advice would you give to another student about studying abroad?
I would remind students of the importance of finding a balance between cultural immersion and taking care of yourself while being abroad. Living in a different country, no matter how long your program, can be challenging and often draining, even amidst the fun and excitement! It’s important to make sure you take the time you need to rest, recharge, and make time for the things you enjoy. The best way to explore a new place is when you’re energetic and in a good head space. This is sometimes easier said than done because of all the new aspects to explore while in a new place but I think it’s such an important part of ensuring a good experience and getting the most out of your time abroad.
