Interview with Jennifer Turner, Study Abroad Alum
GO: Why did you decide to study abroad at Jerusalem University College in Israel?
Jennifer: Thanks to a well-traveled high school social studies teacher, international travel piqued my interest. When a professor from JUC visited my college and met prospective students for lunch, I knew I needed to sign up. Because the credits would transfer to my current college degree, I saw only advantages to the semester overseas.
I specifically chose JUC rather than another overseas study experience because this school was the only one that advertised at my college. Additionally, the class credits would transfer to my U.S. college transcript.
GO: What made your study abroad experience unique and special?
Jennifer: My roommates and several special classmates enriched my experience overseas. I traveled alone from the U.S. to London where I met several classmates. Most of us had never traveled overseas, and we quickly bonded out of necessity. We needed each other in order to navigate a strange city, cope with homesickness and make the most of every minute.
As a Christian, I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about my faith. Classes allowed me to delve into biblical history with classroom theory and on location, which deepened my faith. We also held open discussions with Muslims and Jews. Growing up in the rural United States, I had limited exposure to other cultures. These roundtables gave me insight into the international mind set of different religions, cultures and people.
GO: How has this experience impacted your future?
Jennifer: Personally, the friends I made while studying at JUC remain my friends today. They inspire, encourage and uphold me during times of crisis and times of joy. Additionally, I left for JUC in the midst of a traumatic personal experience. My roommates allowed me to grieve. Classmates showed me how to love others and open my heart to friendship. I am forever indebted to my fellow JUCers for their care and compassion to me during this semester.
I also learned to be independent. Numerous class assignments required me to travel around Jerusalem to museums or other locations by myself. I learned to navigate a foreign city and enjoy the local cuisine, language and smells.
Professionally, studying the Bible in the biblical setting gave me an edge when I returned to finish my Bible college degree in the U.S. I can read a passage from the Bible and visualize the setting which helps me when I teach Sunday School class or Bible studies. My semester abroad also encouraged me to pursue other overseas adventures and be more open to cultural experiences at home.
Academically, the semester at JUC improved my ability to study in a noisy environment and be self-motivated academically. I was exposed to classes unavailable in the States, which boosted my academic resume. After my semester overseas, the college Dean invited me to share my experiences with the student body. Subsequently, other students asked me questions and decided to study there also.
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Living in Jerusalem for a semester changed my world view. I learned more about Jewish history and was able to visit so many places where Jesus once walked. I also had the the amazing opportunity to volunteer at an orphanage in the West Bank and work with an Arabic speaking church in Jerusalem. One on of our class trips we were able to visit Jordan and learn about the history and told through the Bible. It was overall, one of the best experiences of my life.