Ben Anderson

Benjamin grew up in Wisconsin, and for as long as he can remember, he's had a tremendous curiosity about the world. After spending more time abroad than in America, over the course of the last decade, he was ready to get back in touch with the U.S. While he grew incredibly fond of Asia, after traveling the continent thoroughly, he realized he was missing out on the wonderful culture and geography that America has to offer. So, he recently moved to San Francisco, and is enjoying the widespread diversity, creativity, and self expression in the city. In his free time, he enjoys surfing, kite-boarding, mountain climbing, and camping. Ben loves the fact that Northern California offers such close proximity to beautiful natural surroundings.

What position do you hold at Quest International? What has been your career path so far?

Interview with Ben, Student Placement Coordinator at Quest International

Ben: I am the International Student Placement Coordinator at Quest International. My career path has always been in an internationally-related industry. After studying International Studies in college, I worked for a student travel agency as a Travel Advisor, where I enjoyed coordinating travel, study, volunteer, and work abroad experiences for students.

Following that experience, I was fortunate to teach English to Junior High School students in Japan for three years. I really enjoyed being a 'grass roots' cultural ambassador in addition to learning about East Asian ideology. With this, I'm excited to be working in the student exchange industry and help students enjoy the same sort of wonderful experiences abroad that I had.

Did YOU study abroad?! If so, where and what inspired you to go?

Ben: Yes, I did study abroad. I studied in International Economics and Politics in Bangkok, Thailand. I enjoyed exploring Southeast Asia while learning about the culturally rich developing region of the world. I also had the privilege of participating in Semester at Sea. My voyage circumnavigated the world while visiting 11 countries, developing a global perspective, and participating in service projects in impoverished areas.

I was inspired to travel abroad by exchange students I met in high school. I thought it was awesome foreign students were so ambitious and curious that they were willing to come and study in America.

What does the future hold for Quest International - any exciting new programs to share?

Ben: Quest International is a growing organization I'm really excited to be a part of it. We are introducing some great new programs in order to cultivate students' leadership skills and global perspective. I hope to be able to continue facilitating wonderful, enriching experiences for students abroad.

What about the future of the high school abroad industry? How do you think international education will change over the next 10 years?

Ben: I believe the High School Abroad industry will continue to grow. As globalization increases and the world becomes more interconnected, it's becoming more essential that students develop a global perspective. Cultural sensitivity and foreign language knowledge are extremely marketable skills that will help any student in their collegiate and professional careers.