Why I Chose to Study Abroad:

1) TO BROADEN MY NETWORK:

Being abroad I aspired to not only learn about the country but also live like a local. By immersing with the locals and finding their favorite locations to grab a bite to eat or relax after a long day I learned more about their way of life than if I would have just read it in a book or only took a photo at a tourist spot. By living like a local I developed my network of people globally and this will broaden my resources in the future.

Te Arai Beach, New Zealand (Locals teaching me how to cliff jump as the waves come in to make sure it is deep enough)

2) FOR PERSONAL GROWTH:

I wanted to study abroad to grow as an individual and to acquire an open-mind to other beliefs and cultures. Acquiring an open-mind to other cultures is allowing me to see global issues from a new perspective instead of only an American perspective.

La Playa de Blanco, Costa Rica

3) TO EXPERIENCE THE WORLD:

I wanted to use this study abroad opportunity to expand my knowledge of cultures in other countries. I never just wanted to travel the world; I want to experience the world. I have the hope of exploring new ways of thinking which will allow me to have deeper connections to people in the future.

Omanawa Falls, New Zealand

4) TO LEARN ABOUT POSSIBLE CAREER PATHS:

Traveling and meeting new people gave me an opportunity to explore and learn more about a possible career path. Currently my end goal is to work with Foster Care Children and this opportunity, in a different country with new people, may possibly inspire me in a new direction or help me focus my current direction.

Dunedin, New Zealand (University of Otago)