Why did you decide to study abroad with IES Abroad's EU program?
Emily: I have always wanted to study abroad because I had never traveled abroad before and I figured studying abroad was an affordable way to kill two birds with one stone - go to college and see the world at the same time. The EU program was a perfect fit for me because it included traveling, and because studying the European Union is very relevant to my major, which is International and Global Studies.
My major requires "international experience" and some of the courses I took abroad also counted towards fulfilling requirements. The EU program is based in Freiburg, Germany, which was great for me because I had taken 3 semesters of German already and I did not want to live in a huge city like Berlin. Once I got there I loved Freiburg because it was the perfect size city, not too big or too small. I got to use the German I already knew and learned more since all students are required to take a German language class.
What made your study abroad experience unique and special?
Emily: I think this experience is unique because it includes a lot of travel within the program, and the academics are centered on one subject, which you get to know very in-depth. Also, instead of enrolling at a foreign university, which can be scary, all classes and lots of activities were within the program, so there is a lot of support from the staff and you get to know your classmates very well.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Emily: This experience allowed me to personally grow and become more confident. I spent 6 months abroad (including an internship) and I had never been away from home more than a few weeks, but I never felt homesick. The entire time was busy (in a good way) and exciting. The program also allowed me to explore an international career, which was something I was interested in. We talked to ambassadors, government officials, and scholars during our field study trips, but I realized that although I found everything interesting, I don't really have a passion for international relations or politics.
Knowing what you really want to do with your life is important, but I think it is just as important to know for sure what you don't want to do. Even though I no longer want to pursue a career in that field, I have gained some great experience that will help me in the working world and look great on my resume.