Posted on Spotlight, Students

Viridiana Galvez Garcia

Viridiana Galvez Garcia

Major: Business Accounting
Term Abroad: Winter 2023
Year: Junior
Program / Location: Barcelona, Spain: FLP – A Taste of Spain

Why did you want to study abroad? 

I wanted to study abroad because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone . I love learning about different cultures and exposing myself to new experiences.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?

My most positive experience abroad includes meeting amazing students in my program and getting to know more about local people and their traditions.

How did you manage your academic success abroad during the pandemic?

I scheduled certain times during the day to focus only on my school responsibilities, making sure I was completing all my assignments.

What are some ways that you interacted with the local community?

I am a very curious person. I tried to ask as many questions as possible whenever we were taking a tour.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while abroad?

I would say making sure to always having a face mask around, also washing your hands as often as possible and making sure you follow the host county guidelines.

Any advice to potential study abroad students?

Always listen to the professor and the study abroad and away staff advice. Follow their instructions and make the best out of this unforgettable experience.
Posted on Spotlight

Welcome!

Welcome and thank you for visiting the new blog from the Study Abroad & Away Office at the College of Professional & Global Education (CPGE) at San Jose State University.  This blog aims to showcase the internationalization activities at San Jose State University. The posts will include a variety of categories including spotlights on students, alumni, faculty, and staff who are engaging in study abroad experiences, student experiences, travel tips, photos, testimonials, and other news & updates.  If you would like to submit a post of your own on any of these topics or if you have ideas for future topics, please email Dr. Vid Raatior (vid.raatior@sjsu.edu) or our office (spartansabroad@sjsu.edu).

Posted on News & Updates Video

Support our Fund

On Giving Tuesday, November 29, 2022, the Study Abroad & Away office at the College of Professional & Global Education (CPGE) will participate in the SJSU crowdfunding program to raise $10,000 for our new scholarship fund named after our beloved former Dean, Dr. Ruth Huard. Fiscally administered by the SJSU Tower Foundation, the fund will support equity-focused Study Abroad & Away scholarships and programming needs for our students.

Your tax deductible* donation will support these priorities:

  1. Equity & Inclusion Scholarships:We plan to offer scholarships to incentivize historically underrepresented minority students to participate in any of our 350+ study abroad program opportunities around the world. We especially want to help offset some of the expenses that are often required, but are either prohibited by their financial aid assistance or before aid is applied including required program or housing abroad deposits, student visa, international insurance coverage, and others.
  2. Global Ambassadors Leadership Development: As we recover from the pandemic which greatly impacted global education, we are preparing to launch a new Global Ambassador leadership development program for current and former study abroad students to engage in the internationalization goals of the university.
  3. DACA Students Abroad: We want to level the playing fields for DACA students who have an additional required $575 filing fees for the UCSC Form I-131: Application for Travel Documents, which enables them to participate in international education programs and be able to return to the US.

Donate Now

Posted on Spotlight, Students

Mariana Rojas-Montoya

Mariana Rojas-Montoya
Major: Physics
Term Abroad: Winter 2023
Program / Location: Spain FLP

Why did you want to study abroad? 
I wanted to explore something completely different from my major, and it was a good reset for myself before starting a new semester. When I first started college, I didn’t think that studying abroad was even in the cards for me since my major did not require a study abroad experience. When I found out that there were programs that covered a student’s area V, I got excited. It was an impulsive decision since I applied right after I read about it, but such spontaneity led to academic growth. On top of that, I’ve been wanting to practice my Spanish more, so a program for Spain was my immediate first choice.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
The thing that I enjoyed the most was how much time I was able to spend with my classmates. My favorite moments include touring historical spots, cooking together, shoe making, learning about the production of certain foods, and being introduced to new dishes during our group meals. I especially cherished the activities that my classmates and I did during our free time. It was during those moments that we were able to bond through laughter, curiosity, sharing stories from our own lives, and expressing our gratitude for having this experience abroad together. I am incredibly lucky to have traveled with this cohort. They really did make the program even more worthwhile.

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic?
I was able to manage my academic success abroad by being mindful of my assignments and their due dates. I also view my experience in the program as a form of management for my overall academic success in San Jose State. I wanted time to think about how I’ve been feeling with my studies back at home, and the trip provided me the chance to disconnect from anything related to my major, which felt refreshing. Regardless of what major a student has, it is always healthy to just step back from it for a little while and rest. By being in a setting that allowed me to learn and unwind at the same time, I was able to make choices upon returning home that will help me achieve my academic goals.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community ?
A memorable interaction that I had was with a store owner who ran a stationery store in Barcelona. My roommate and I were looking for a gift while exploring small alleyways during our free time, which is how we ended up in the store. I started chatting with the store owner, and that is when she told me that the notebooks were special since they were all handmade in house. She shared a story about her upbringing and how she developed her interest in making notebooks. I then learned about how people in that town would have a vision of things that they like, so they would open a small business to share it with the public. It felt special hearing these stories through her, and she even told me about other antique stores that she recommended I visit during my trip. Barcelona is filled with nooks and crannies of people’s art, and making those discoveries is the best part of interacting with the locals.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while abroad?
Coordinate with your classmates regarding communication. Always let them know where you or someone is going, which is crucial if anything were to happen. Always observe your surroundings, keep your purses/bags in front of you to protect your belongings, and stay in areas where there are plenty of people and enough lighting. As for health, do bring masks, sanitizing wipes, and medication.

Any advice to potential study abroad students?

  • Research the weather for all of the programs offered. This might be a no-brainer for those who travel a lot, but it could be something that doesn’t cross someone’s mind if they don’t travel much or at all.
  • Even if your major does not require a study abroad experience, Spartans Abroad does offer programs that can cover an upper division general education area such as area V. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the office and/or professors with questions about those details, I really encourage speaking with them if you have any doubts about anything!
  • If you are considering doing a program, then go for it! As mentioned before, sometimes you just need to step back from your current major studies and take time to explore new things. It is beneficial since you are able to realize/reflect on what is truly making you happy in life. Just go out and live!
Study in Florence Scholarship
Posted on News & Updates

Scholarship to Study in Florence, Italy

Study in Florence ScholarshipDid you know that the County of Santa Clara has a Sister County relationship with the Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy to promote “intercultural and educational exchange between these regions.”? And did you know that every year they offer scholarships to SJSU students who are applying to study abroad in Florence, Italy for a full year? Did you know that SJSU students can study abroad for a full year on the SJSU-approved CSUIP Florence Center in Italy? If you want more information about the Florence program, please book an appointment with Julie Lucas (julie.lucas@sjsu.edu) at the SJSU Study Abroad & Away office.

For more information and application on the  scholarship, please visit the Santa Clara County website here.

Posted on Alumni, Spotlight

Janet Garcia Borbon

Janet Garcia Borbon

 

Congratulations to Janet Garcia Borbon who graduated in December with more than just a degree in kinesiology.  She is a first-generation college graduate, a DACA recipient, the #1 ranked Muay Thai fighter in the United States, and a study abroad alumnae of the business-focused faculty-led program in Germany in summer 2022. Prior to leaving for Germany for her study abroad experience, Janet represented the United States at the World Games in Alabama earning a bronze medal.

What’s your story?

Hi, my name is Janet Garcia Borbon. As a first-generation graduate and DACA recipient, I am proud to have achieved so much in my life. I am proud to have achieved so much in my life. Born in Mexico, I have called San Jose, California my home since I was nine years old. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am also a skilled Muay Thai fighter and currently hold the #1 rank in the 48 kg weight class in the USA. Recently, I had the privilege of representing the USA at the World Games and brought home a bronze medal. I am grateful for all of the opportunities that have come my way and am excited to see what the future holds.

Why did you want to study abroad? 

I have always been fascinated by the idea of studying abroad and experiencing life in a different part of the world. Growing up, I never had the opportunity to travel outside of my home continent and this seemed like the perfect chance for me to step out of my comfort zone and explore a new culture. I am eager to see how people in other parts of the world live and experience life, and I believe that studying abroad will be a valuable and enriching opportunity for me.

What was your experience abroad in Germany?

My experience in Germany has been wonderful. I have had the opportunity to learn about a new culture and meet a diverse group of people. I have gained valuable insights into how business is conducted in Germany and how people view the world. I have also had the chance to try new and delicious foods and engage in meaningful conversations with locals. While the Germans may not be as outwardly friendly as Americans, they are extremely helpful and willing to assist whenever needed. Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Germany and would love the chance to return in the future.

What is The World Games? 

The World Games are an international multi-sport event comprising sports and sporting disciplines that are not contested in the Olympic Games. They are usually held every four years, one year after a Summer Olympic Games, over the course of 11 days.

About 3,600 elite athletes from over 100 countries compete for gold in more than 30 of the fastest growing sports in the world. The first ever World Games took place in 1981 in Santa Clara, CA.

Tell us about your journey and experience at The World Games?  

My journey to the World Games began five years ago when I learned that my sport, Muay Thai, would be included in the games. I made the decision then and there that I would do whatever it took to represent the United States in the World Games. It was fortuitous that the next World Games would be held in Birmingham, Alabama. I spoke with my coach and told him that I wanted to be the best in the country. We worked hard for the next five years, competing against fighters from all over the country and climbing the ranks. Eventually, I won the USA qualifiers, securing my spot on the team and my #1 rank in the USA.

When I arrived at the Games, it was like a dream come true. I had worked so hard for this moment and it was finally here. I took in every moment, making sure to be present and savor the experience. The highlight of the tournament for me was when they called out “Representing the United States of America” and my name. That was when it all hit me: an immigrant child representing the USA. I never thought I would get the opportunity to hear those words and I was overwhelmed with joy. I wanted to cry, smile, and hug my mom to tell her that we had done it. But I had to put on a good poker face and get to work. As I entered the ring, I put all my feelings aside and fought with all my heart. After winning my first match, the crowd started cheering again, “USA! USA!” and all those emotions came rushing back. I hugged my coach and tears rolled down my cheeks.

Although I didn’t win the gold, earning a bronze medal was still a huge accomplishment for me. It was one of the best times of my life and I will always hold that moment dear to my heart.

What does it mean for you as a Spartan to be selected to represent the US in The World Games?

This experience has shown me that anything is possible if I set my mind to it. Being both a student and a top athlete can be challenging, but I have had great professors and counselors who have helped me along the way. Whenever I needed help from my teachers, they were always willing to provide it. They recognized the demands of my athletic career and did their best to help me balance my schoolwork. This has taught me that with determination and support, I can achieve anything.”

Any advice to Spartans?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help! There are many resources available to make your college experience easier. I wish I had known this when I first started college, but now you do. Talk to your professors or counselors for guidance and they will point you in the right direction. Remember, you don’t have to go through this journey alone.

NOTE from the Study Abroad & Away office:

If you wish to support future DACA students to take advantage of our global experiences at SJSU, please consider donating to the Dr. Ruth Huard Study Abroad Scholarship which aims to help fund DACA students with their Advance Parole process.

Rahel Adebabay
Posted on News & Updates, Spotlight, Students

Gilman Award: Rahel Adebabay

Congratulations to Rahel Adebabay, a Junior majoring in Global Studies and minoring in African American Studies, Legal Studies, and Philosophy who was one of two SJSU recipients of the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship to study abroad in the spring 2023 semester. Rahel will be studying at University College Dublin in the spring. Rahel is a Peer Mentor at Peer Connections and a Research Assistant at the African American Studies department. In her personal statement (see below), Rahel, who is proudly of Ethiopian heritage, wrote that she is “eager to embark on a new academic journey and determined to excel while utilizing my leadership abilities to contribute to the campus culture.”

Rahel’s Statement of Purpose

Participating in a study abroad program would profoundly benefit my experience as a Global Studies major. My interest in foreign relations stems from the desire to serve underrepresented groups, travel, and engage with different cultures. I want to utilize my degree to work towards my vision of building a prosperous, united Africa with access to basic needs, economic sustainability, and solid educational infrastructure. As I pursue such domains, the University College Dublin would be the perfect environment to develop the skills necessary to thrive in International Affairs. Not only will I engage in a curriculum directly related to my field, but like-minded individuals will also surround me. San Jose State University is traditionally a STEM-based school, and the student population majoring in International Affairs is slim. Seeing as though the University College Dublin is highly selective and recognized for its programs, I expect my experience to challenge me, academically and personally, as I know this will ultimately make me a well-rounded student and person. Through this program, I hope to gain a new perspective in which to view the world.

Although I consider myself open-minded, I believe traveling to Dublin, Ireland, and experiencing a non-American curriculum will allow me to decenter from an American political perspective. This is especially important as a scholar in the field of International relations because this will challenge my political beliefs, worldviews, and personal values. International Affairs cannot be seen from only one perspective, and acquiring added perspective will make me more analytical and critical in nature. Such attributes will make me an attractive candidate for my future educational pursuits and professional life. Through this experience, I desire to garner skills to become an effective communicator as I am cognizant of the number of people I will meet from various backgrounds with possible language and cultural barriers. Through this experience, I want to learn how to navigate those barriers in communication. This is especially important to me as I hope to work in the peace and war conflict sector, and through this experience, I can drastically improve my communication abilities.

 I believe studying abroad is more than just about academics. It includes studying rich cultures and engaging in diverse communities. I plan to use this cultural understanding to best inform me beyond this academic semester and my day-to-day life. I believe that I am a creative, open-minded student with excellent collaboration skills and a deep-rooted commitment to improving my community. At the University College Dublin, I am eager to embark on a new academic journey and determined to excel while utilizing my leadership abilities to contribute to the campus culture. These qualities prove I would be a great candidate for the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship program.

Apply For the Gilman Scholarship Now

Posted on News & Updates, Spotlight

Holiday Message from the Director

Dear students and campus colleagues,

Congratulations on reaching the end of the fall 2022 semester at SJSU! As I reflect on 2022, I must acknowledge that 2022 was a pivotal year for the Study Abroad and Away (SAA) team, as the COVID-19 pandemic took more of a “back seat” and we were able to resume student mobility across borders, enabling students and faculty to experience international opportunities in person. However, the virtual study abroad experiences continued to be an option. More specifically, over the past two years, the Virtual International Partners (VIP) program allowed many SJSU students to continue their meaningful cultural exchange experiences virtually. Through this program in 2022, we connected 586 SJSU students with 570 international students attending our partner institutions. 

Spring 2022 marked the slow relaunch of study abroad opportunities. In the 2021-22 academic year, we sent 194 students abroad, which encompasses 43 students to 6 countries on exchange programs, and 151 students on 11 faculty-led programs (FLPs) in summer 2022, after two years of hiatus. In fall 2022, we sent 47 exchange students to 14 countries for the semester and 19 students for the academic year. In January 2023, we will be sending 97 students to 6 different countries on faculty-led programs. And in spring 2023, we will be sending 85 students to 18 countries, bringing our total number of exchange students for 2022-2023 to 151, a record number and an increase of 25% since before the pandemic.

As for the SAA team, the year 2022 offered all of us ample opportunity to continue to pivot, to rethink, and to finetune our efforts to support all of you. We have a new team member, Courtney Anne Jackson, who has joined the small but mighty SAA team as a Program Specialist. I am delighted to report that we have an amazing team of advisors who are very student-centered and all of whom have had a wide range of intercultural experiences and backgrounds, making them even more motivated and dedicated to work toward your success. You can read more about our entire team by going here.  

Both new and seasoned SAA team members have worked tirelessly and diligently to serve and support all of you. We continued to think innovatively to engage you and to ensure that we were providing opportunities to continue to promote global learning for all. Just to list a few accomplishments in 2022:

  • We continued to provide advising in a hybrid mode within an expanded time frame, giving you the choice to meet with us either in-person or via zoom throughout each weekday.  
  • We continued to streamline our processes and policies and further developed the information on our website, easing the access to step by step information on deadlines, procedures, etc.
  • We have continued to strengthen our partnerships with campus constituents and partners, essential for the success of our students and our goals for campus internationalization.
  • We have continued to offer our events in a hybrid mode with a transition to a lot more in-person events this year, as we strive to build a robust community to support all of you here at SJSU. Our International Education Week (IEW) events this year were well attended by all.
  • We are grateful for all of your generous support for our new Dr. Ruth Huard Study Abroad Scholarship which launched on SJSU’s Day of Giving. The funds will support our equity-focused scholarship and programming.  To date, we have  raised $1,900. Donations are still being accepted here so please consider a contribution. 
  • Finally, we are thrilled to be able to continue to offer the Louie Barozzi scholarship. Please look for announcements in February 2023 about the application period for the 2023-2024 academic year. In addition, we continue to promote and guide students in applying for the Fulbright, the Gilman and the Boren scholarships.

As a reminder, SAA will be closed for the holidays from December 26th, with the last advising appointments (both in person and virtual) taking place on Thursday, December 22nd. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, January 3rd. We look forward to our continued engagement with each and every one of you, in the new year and look forward to meeting with many of you in person.

On behalf of all of us in SAA, enjoy a restful and peaceful holiday season and break. I sincerely hope that the time will allow you to rest and recharge with renewed energy to conquer all your goals and ambitions in 2023. Congratulations again on finishing the fall semester and for all you have accomplished in 2022!

Wishing you joy, peace, and hope in 2023!

Warm regards,

Parinaz Zartoshty
Interim Director of SAA

Courtney Anne Jackson
Posted on Spotlight, Staff

Courtney Anne Jackson

Courtney Anne JacksonCourtney Anne Jackson, M.A.

Position: Program Specialist
Direct: (408)924-2613
Email: courtneyanne.jackson@sjsu.edu
Appointment: https://courtneyannejackson.youcanbook.me

Program Portfolio:Faculty-Led Programs (FLP)

Advising Liaison: College of Business, Undergraduate Advising and Success Center

Bio: Courtney is a proud Northern Californian. She was born in Oakland and raised in a rural community in the Sierra Nevada Mountains called Quincy, CA. Courtney studied abroad in Rome, Italy her junior year while earning her B.A. in Cultural Memory and the Arts from Whittier College. After graduation, she worked supporting international students in San Francisco before getting her M.A. in International Education Management at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, where she studied abroad in Chile. Courtney spent 6 years working in international education in Washington before joining the SJSU SAA team.

Fun Facts: Courtney enjoys competitive swimming, museums, and archaeological sites. She also loves traveling to new places in search of street art and the world’s best mac and cheese.

Dr. Seung Ho Chang
Posted on Faculty, Spotlight

Seung Ho Chang

Dr. Seung Ho ChangSeung Ho Chang

College: CHHS
Department: Kinesiology
Program: South Korea (KIN): Land of the Morning Calm (PE)
Location: South Korea
Email: seungho.chang@sjsu.edu

Dr. Seung Ho Chang has been a member of the faculty in the Department of Kinesiology since 2016. He received a B.S. and master’s degree in Physical Education (emphasis in Motor Development and Control) from Seoul National University, South Korea. He earned his Ph.D. in Kinesiology with a specialization in Motor Development and Physical Education Teacher Education from The Ohio State University.  Dr. Chang was a head of the Martial Arts Major in the department of physical education at Korea Naval academy and a chief officer of Taekwondo Demonstration Team for Cruise Training Force (visiting 13 countries). He holds the rank of 5th degree black belt in Taekwondo and has taught Taekwondo at many universities in both South Korea and the United States.

Celeste Sandoval-Chavez
Posted on Spotlight, Students

Celeste Sandoval-Chavez

Celeste Sandoval-ChavezCeleste Sandoval-Chavez
Major: Human Factors and Ergonomics
Term Abroad: Fall 2019 and Spring 2020
Program / Location: ISEP: Bradford University, England

Why did you want to study abroad? 
I knew since I started college I wanted to study abroad, and it wasn’t until I actually researched and applied to do it. I knew I wanted to experience a new culture, country, and uni experience and studying abroad was something that was able to do that for me.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
My most positive experience from studying abroad is being able to make new friends, become a local of Bradford City, and become independent by experiencing living alone for the first time ( I am an SJSU commuter and still live with my parents). I loved my experience so much studying abroad in England that I have been planning to find a way to work and settle permanently in England! I definitely left a part of me in England that yearns to go back! 🇬🇧 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 I’ll be a long journey to get there but I know it’ll be worth it because I am determined to go back ❤️

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic?
Balancing my social and academic life was something that worked for me. My friends were both on the same course as I and therefore would always hangout at each other’s flats but also organize study groups and prepare for lectures and exams.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community ?
Making friends who aren’t international students is was how I was better to learn first had how British culture is. They became my friend group and taught me the ins and outs of what it is like living in England.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic?
Please make sure you have school insurance and or global insurance. Take precautions like washing your hands, covering your mouth when sneezing (do not use your hand). Seek medical attention if you are in serious pain.

Any advice to potential study abroad students?
1. Make friends who are from the country you are studying in so you indulge in the culture more authentically.

2. Even if you aren’t able to make friends that is OKAY, being able to travel solo in the country that you are in is also really nice and you have more flexibility to visit the places you want to go to.

3. Be involved in the uni activities and clubs!! that is also another great way to meet knew people, start a new hobby, and be informed of trips or activities planned

4. GO SIGHTSEEING!! As much as possible and take those photos for memories!!

Gabriella LaBeaux
Posted on Alumni, Spotlight

Gabrielle LaBeaux

Gabriella LaBeaux

Gabriella LaBeaux (Alumni)
Major: Communications
Year Abroad: Fall 2019 and Spring 2020
Program Location: University of Strathclyde, Scotland
Current Position: Interior Designer
Company: Weedman Design Partners

How did your study abroad experience help you with your coursework once you returned to SJSU?

Because I studied abroad when COVID hit, I never actually returned to SJSU. I finished my degree online during COVID, able to graduate early due to my course load while studying abroad! Curriculum in the UK was research heavy with a focus on one final project. This prepared me for my senior year of college as I was working through my final Communications projects.

How did your study abroad experience help strengthen your job prospects?
Study abroad gave me access to different forms of communication, culture, and design influence that made me a more competitive candidate when applying for jobs. Both design firms I have worked with since graduating have highly valued travel experience for the added layer of insight and ideas evoked from my travels. Everyone I have worked with at both firms has lived or travelled in multiple different countries so we have a very diverse background.

Please describe any skills you learned abroad that you are applying in your current academic, professional, or personal life.
Academically I took away the importance of research and learned long term follow through backed by evidence.

Professionally I learned how to be adaptable to any style of communication or design. I learned the important in listening and asking thoughtful questions. I also learned to value timeless design practices and incorporating history into my work.

Personally I took away prioritizing life above your work. People in the Europe work to live and in America we live to work. In Europe life is more balanced and employers see the benefit in employees having more personal time. So I have looked for firms who practice this mindset.

What was the most memorable experience or moment from your time abroad?
In Scotland, I have so many good memories from pro futbol games, to high tea, and road-trips through the country. I have two memorable experiences.

The first most memorable experience was my birthday party. I gathered my American and Scottish friends and we went out for drinks and dinner. We ended the night in a club with a bounce house. It was one of those nights that was full of good company and lifelong friends.

The second was volunteering at a camp hosted out in the countryside at a beautiful old old old mansion. I got to mentor and give advice to high school students and share so many fun things with them about being American! They loved my accent- ha! I attended a Ceilidh for a fundraiser for the camp which was a traditional Scottish dance party and it was awesome! Yes the men really do wear kilts!

What other experiences do you wish you had optimized while abroad to help you in your career path?
I feel like I actually did this really well. I would tell any student to find some local professionals in your city and connect with them. Wether it be a coffee date, shadowing, or even just an email chain- make those connections. It teaches you about your passion and career path but in an international lens.

Any other advice to current Spartans about maximizing the study abroad experience? 
Save up and travel as much as you can! See your country but also fly to nearby ones. Traveling with friends can be so fun but set your expectations beforehand to be sure you are on the same page for activities and finances. I would even suggest a solo trip. I solo tripped to Iceland and made friends during my excursions. It taught me a lot about myself and how to be comfortable and aware being alone.

Connect with Me
IG: @gabriella_labeaux
Instagram Podcast: Listen Now
Apple Podcast: Listen Now

Alexey Kolechkin
Posted on Spotlight, Students

Alexey Kolechkin

Alexey Kolechkin
Major: Finance
Term Abroad: Fall 2022 and Spring 2023
Program / Location: SJSU Exchange Sophia University, Tokyo Japan
IG: @alexey.kolechkin

Why did you want to study abroad? 
I’ve been interested in Japanese culture ever since taking Japanese language classes in high school, so I wanted to experience living in Japan firsthand, improve my language abilities, and meet lots of new people.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
Realizing how much money I’ve been spending, which is ironic considering that living in Japan is fairly cheap right now since the dollar is so strong compared to the yen. But since I go out a lot, whether it’s exploring/traveling or shopping or just hanging out with friends, I end up spending a lot of money on experiences. It’s not something I regret, since thankfully I have enough savings to cover it and I’m making lots of great memories, but it is something I will have to keep in check later on.

Any advice to potential study abroad students?
Seek growth and learning through discomfort. Living abroad for an extended period of time can be scary and challenging, but it’s one of the best opportunities for growth and self-development that you will ever have in your life, so take advantage of it and go somewhere exciting!

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic?
I minimized the amount of classes I’m taking so that I could put more focus on each one while dealing with the challenges of studying abroad. There is almost always something new that pops up that I have to deal with, or exciting experiences or events that I want to participate in, so I realized I had to take a lighter course load to have time for everything and still be able to succeed academically, as well as succeed in my other goals.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community ?
I’ve made friends with several Japanese students and they’ve shown me around different parts of Tokyo and taken me to places like restaurants, bars, karaoke, observatories, shrines, and temples. Having local connections really helps to better integrate with the local community because they show me how to act, speak, and what is considered acceptable and not acceptable.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic?
Take the normal precautions as you would anywhere else; wear a mask, wash your hands, try to avoid crowds if you can, and make smart choices

Kianna Vargas
Posted on Alumni, Spotlight, Students

Kianna Vargas

Kianna VargasKianna Vargas (Alumni)
Major: Psychology
Year Abroad: 2019-2020 Academic Year
Program Location: CSUIP / Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile / Santiago de Chile
Current Position: Language and Culture Assistant
Organization: Spanish Ministry of Education

How did your study abroad experience help you with your coursework once you returned to SJSU?

My university in Chile was the number one university in the country meaning that my coursework was extremely rigorous. Attending this school taught me how to better my study happens and how to advocate for myself to professors.

How did your study abroad experience help strengthen your job prospects?
My time in Chile has made me a unique candidate for all jobs I have applied for. Studying abroad teaches you skills you could never learn in a traditional academic setting.

Please describe any skills you learned abroad that you are applying in your current academic, professional, or personal life.
The number one skill I improved on abroad is my Spanish language skills. Although I was confident in my Spanish before arriving to Chile, living and studying there was a humbling experience. In Chile, my Spanish improved immensely, and am now able to use it in all aspects of my life.

What is the most memorable experience or moment from your time abroad?
My most memorable experiences abroad were the solo trip I took to Colombia for a month, hiking Patagonia, and visiting my Chilean friends in their hometowns. A huge perk of studying abroad in the Southern Hemisphere is that the seasons are switched so if you study there for a year you get a summer break. My summer break was from December to March and I used this time to travel across Chile and other parts of South America (Colombia, Peru, and Argentina).

What other experiences do you wish you had optimized while abroad to help you in your career path?
I wish I had volunteered and participated more in school organizations. Due to COVID cutting my time short, I was unable to.

Any other advice to current Spartans about maximizing the study abroad experience? 
Say yes as much as possible, don’t be afraid to be outside your comfort zone, and try your best to make local friends!

Alycia Low
Posted on Alumni, Spotlight, Students

Alycia Low

Alycia Low (alum)
Major: Public Relations and Minored in Professional and Technical Writing
Term Abroad: Fall 2017
Program / Location: SJSU Exchange University of Roehampton, London, UK
Position Title: Recruiting Coordinator
Employer: Roblox

How did your study abroad experience help you with your coursework once you returned to SJSU?
Overall I think my experience helped me become more confident when it came to social interactions with my classmates. It also helped me see things from a different perspective. Having gone abroad, I recognized that there were other ways to approach questions I had about the world.

How did your study abroad experience help strengthen your job prospects?
It definitely helped me stand out as a candidate and was often a topic of conversation when interviewing. They would ask about my experience abroad and how that has shaped me. For me, studying abroad has really shaped the way I think about my career. It’s what led me to my position as a Study Abroad Student Assistant, which has helped me realize I want to go down this career path in recruiting/HR.

Please describe any skills you learned abroad that you are applying in your current academic, professional, or personal life.
Going abroad and having that experience has taught me how to have more grace and compassion for those around me who are from different parts of the world. While I was in the UK/Europe, I was a minority (as an Asian-American) and it helped me appreciate other cultures, including my own, even more!

What is the most memorable experience or moment from your time abroad?
During my last couple of weeks in the UK, I had the opportunity to travel alone in Scotland. This was probably one of the best decisions I had made. It taught me how to be self-sufficient and brought a whole new perspective on travelling. I had the unique experience of eating alone for consecutive meals, for example, and even asking fellow tourists/locals for directions or photos. Through this trip, I was also able to fully embrace the boldness I had learned over the past few months abroad, which helped me to be more confident in my social interactions and even my decisions.

What other experiences do you wish you had optimized while abroad to help you in your career path?
Although I had a great time in London, I do wish I had the opportunity to try living abroad for a longer period of time and maybe even challenge myself to go somewhere out of the ordinary. I also wish I was told that it’s okay not to travel all of Europe in that one semester, and that it’s okay to just sit and absorb what my home city has to offer. I was constantly travelling every weekend that I don’t feel like I truly got to experience London and all that it has to offer.

Any other advice to current Spartans about maximizing the study abroad experience? 
As I mentioned before, I’d highly encourage students to take time to really take in your home city/country. There’s so much your city has to offer and your program will be over before you know it, so really take it in. I think there’s a lot of pressure people put on folks (at least travelling to Europe) to explore as much as you can, but I really wish someone told me this before I planned all of these trips. This was my first time to Europe and I wish I had taken the time to get to know the folks and areas around me.

Abigail Alcain
Posted on Spotlight, Students

Abigail Alcain

Abigail AlcainAbigail Alcain
Major: Biological Sciences
Term Abroad: Spring 2022
Program / Location: SJSU Exchange University of Roehampton, UK

Why did you want to study abroad? 
Studying abroad looked like a great opportunity for me to experience new places and traveling as well as meeting new people from different backgrounds. I also wanted to use this opportunity to advance my career by connecting with the professors and programs that I’m able to participate in.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
A surprising experience that I have noticed is that I live on one of the four campuses here, and I live on the campus that’s far away from the main campus. I was surprised that this college was separated from all the others and distinctly far from the main one. But all my classes and labs are in my current college anyways so I don’t have to go to the main campus unless it’s for a social event or for the library. Another challenging experience is the transportation, all transportation is taken by bus or train, and I am not used to public transportation as much as I am now because that is how I get everywhere, and especially most places near me take about 30 minutes to an hour to get somewhere.

Any advice to potential study abroad students?
For potential study abroad students, would probably be to study what norms take place at that specific country beforehand. And definitely make sure all the financials are taking care of (such as if you need a new phone number/SIM card, a bank, transportation card). Also make sure you know where the nearest hospital is just in case.

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic?
I have managed to keep my academics controlled bye renting all the textbooks and materials required for my classes. I also depend on the online moodle (CANVAS) for notifications from professors as well as accessing the lectures and videos required.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community ?
I have definitely met many people within the community of my area, and they have helped me explore around London and we try new foods and visit in new places and overall had fun!

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic?
Make sure to have your insurance on hand at all times, especially on your phone in case you have any major injuries. As well make sure you tell someone where you are at and never go alone.

Yesenia Guzman
Posted on Spotlight, Students

Yesenia Guzman

Yesenia GuzmanYesenia Guzman
Country Location: France
Program / University Abroad: SJSU Exchange/EM Strasbourg Business School
Term Abroad: Spring 2022 Semester
Major: Business Administration (Marketing concentration)
Year: 4th

It’s been truly an adventure, with its highs and lows, but overall positive and pleasant. I am very grateful for the opportunity and experience 🙂

1. Why did you want to study abroad? 

I always aspired to study abroad in order to explore a new country, learn from a different culture, and overall grow from the new experiences. As a first generation student, I decided to study abroad as a way to broaden my perspective on the world and the possibilities that exist outside of my familiar comfort zone – in order to become more culturally aware and capable of adapting to new environments. I also really wanted to meet and connect with students from diverse backgrounds, faculty with different teaching styles, and a community with a different lifestyle. I knew studying abroad would be a personally, academically, and professionally enriching experience – allowing me to accomplish my own goals as well as gain the knowledge and experience to support others in their own intercultural experience goals.

2. What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?

One of the most positive experiences abroad has been celebrating my birthday with international friends in France

3. Any advice to potential study abroad students? 

My advice to potential study abroad students would be to truly be intentional about the country you want to go to, and when planning, inquire & ask for support from students who have studied in your country/university of choice in the past. This way, you have some someone who can offer advice and experience during the application and pre-departure preparation.

6. How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic? 

All of my classes abroad are in-person, therefore in order to manage my academic success during the pandemic, I use the tools and practice the habits I developed during remote learning. I connect and collaborate with my classmates, check my emails daily, organize deadlines on my Google calendar, and communicate/ask for help from professors when needed. To support my overall academic success, I ensure to take care of my mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. Journaling, going to the gym, eating home-made meals, hanging out with friends, checking in with family back at home keep helps me stay grounded and motivated.

7. What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community?

I try to interact with the local community by practicing my French when ordering food, buying groceries, or asking questions at local stores or events. I aim to visit museums and participate in more local events when they begin in France.

8. What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic? 

Some tips for managing your health and safety when traveling during the pandemic would be to carry extra masks, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, and disinfecting wipes.

Bridgette Chang
Posted on Students

Bridgette Chang

Bridgette ChangBridgette Chang
Country Location: England
Program / University Abroad: SJSU Exchange/Nottingham Trent Univ
Term Abroad: Spring 2022 Semester
Major: Business Administration
Year: 3rd

1. Why did you want to study abroad? 

Studying abroad has been my goal since the start of university career; since I was young, I’ve felt that I’ve missed out on childhood/teenage experiences as I was extremely busy with academics, sports, responsibilities, and extracurricular activities, and once I’ve started my time at SJSU, I thought that would be my chance to make up for the lost experience of freedom to do anything I wanted. However, my small taste of this independent journey was taken away immediately once the pandemic hit; I realized that this time I had living at home and having more time to work, allowed me to save up and research my way to study abroad. Though I’ve traveled quite a bit, this opportunity was important to me as this is my time to explore my independence as well as combine the college experience with cultural exploration..

2. What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?

The positive about studying abroad in the UK is that though there are many similarities that keep me comfortable, there are many aspects of cultural differences that keep my experience interesting and eye opening. Aside from the accents and the cold weather, I’ve found differences in social interactions, academic preparations, food choices, and even clothing style.

3. Any advice to potential study abroad students? 

My advice to potential study abroad students is to not be intimidated by any doubts or difficulties you may think lie ahead. Many students around the world are participating in study abroad programs which shows that you won’t be the only one who’s new to the area. There have been many doubts in my mind when deciding to study abroad, but I found that all of those worries work out with all of the resources provided, and the experience you gain at the end of it is much more worth it.

6. How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic? 

Studying abroad during the pandemic was one of my biggest worries, however I’ve felt the pandemic hasn’t put any affect into my studies here so far; luckily the UK has had the pandemic under control for the most part and has nearly ended the need for masks. The school provides cleaning wipes and small seminar groups for classes that help reduce the spread of germs, as well as providing free test kits, which eases my worries and allows me to focus more on my studies knowing that the school is providing resources for us. However, I still use extra precautions wearing masks and using hand sanitizer/washing my hands often as there are still health risks.

7. What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community?

The city I’m studying in holds 2 big universities and several high schools, which makes the surrounding shops and establishments student friendly and interactive. Many clubs and establishments are affiliated/work with the university(s) to create safe and fun events for students to enjoy, which I’ve found to be well into the trends and entertaining.

8. What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic? Some tips for staying safe and healthy while studying abroad is:

  • *health* prepare for the weather (our bodies are used to the weather of home, so any drastic changes are going to make an impact on our health)
  • *health* bring medicines from home (there are possibilities that medicines are either expensive or inaccessible in the country you’re going to, so it’s best to just bring some from home if possible)
  • *safety* purchase a sim card or figure out a data plan (going to a foreign country you’ll need to find a way around/research something/contact someone, having access to data at all times can prevent hassles and mishaps *buy sim cards outside of the airport; it’s cheaper)
  • *safety* have an emergency contact buddy (whether it’s a friend or roommate, have someone’s contact number in case of an emergency; having someone from the area available to call is safer and efficient than calling someone from your home country during an unlikely event of an emergency.
Diego Lefebre
Posted on Students

Diego Lefebre

Diego Lefebre

Diego Lefebre
Country Location: England
Program / University Abroad: SJSU Exchange/Liverpool John Moores University
Term Abroad: 2022 Calendar Year (Spring-Fall 2022)
Major: Business Administration
Year: 3rd

Why did you want to study abroad? 
The reason I wanted to study abroad was that I wanted to have a multicultural experience.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
The most interesting aspect of my study abroad experience is the amount of Erasmus and international students  I have met that make the Study abroad experience more eye-opening as I get exposed to various languages and cultures..

Any advice to potential study abroad students? 
One piece of advice I would give to potential study abroad students is to do research on the university they are applying to and more importantly the city as some cities are more student-friendly making your experience more exciting and enjoyable.

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic? 
While being abroad it can sometimes be hard to balance school and your personal life as going out with friends, meeting new people, and exploring new cities take time away from studying, something that has worked for me is keeping a small journal with projects and assignments deadlines and a daily to-do list to finish all of my work and have the weekend free to explore.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community?
The way I have been interacting and getting to know the local culture in Liverpool is by making friends with local students from my classes and going out with them to pubs and museums. Another way I have been getting to know locals and British culture is through football or soccer. In Liverpool, the passion and pride they have are emblematic of how important soccer is in British culture. I have also joined some clubs from my university and it has been a great way to get to know local students and demystify stereotypical ideologies about England by having a broader understanding of the people and their culture.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic? 
Traveling abroad during the pandemic was a challenge in itself as the entry requirements to enter some countries required a negative PCR test within 72hrs, a passenger locator form, and proof of vaccination. Although it may get overwhelming, having a list of the required documents and preparing in advance makes traveling much easier. One thing that helped me a lot while traveling was having a cellular data plan before going abroad because as soon as I landed in the UK I could use my phone to get around making me feel safer and have an overall better experience while traveling.

Michelle Law
Posted on Uncategorized

Michelle Law

Michelle LawMichelle Law
Location: South Korea
Program: ISEP/Ewha Womans University
Term: Fall 2021-Spring 2022 Academic Year
Major: International Business with a concentration in marketing.
Year:  2nd year

Why did you want to study abroad? 
I wanted to study abroad because I’ve always wanted to see the world outside my home. When I was young, I traveled to many other destinations with my parents, but I never got to see much. I’ve always wanted the chance to explore a foreign country on my own pace.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
I think getting accustomed to my new surroundings was definitely the first challenge. When I first arrived in South Korea, I felt out of place. Even as an Asian person myself, I wasn’t used to seeing so many other Asians all in one place. Sometimes, I faced some discriminatory comments and was judged by how I look Asian, but cannot speak Korean. Even so, I gained many precious memories during my time abroad. I met many international friends, from places like South America to Europe. I got to witness many different cultures, opinions, and habits all in one setting. I also got to immerse myself in a foreign society, learning and imitating daily routines from the majority. I think the most interesting thing that happened to me was being able to experience “day trips”. By train, I traveled to different cities located across South Korea and experienced the best of both worlds, countrysides and cities, all in one day.

Any advice to potential study abroad students? 
To future study abroad students, I have a few tips. First, try to learn a bit of the language before going abroad. Whether it’s conversing with the taxi driver or asking for basic directions, learning a few Korean phrases certainly helped me get around. Second, search and download commonly used applications before you go. It will help relieve some stress in finding information abroad. Lastly, do not be afraid to ask for help. I know the fear of being judged, but that’s all part of the challenge. There are many people who are glad to help and who knows, you might make a new friend along the way.

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic? 
I try to take 5 classes maximum because I know I want to balance the time spent between academics and traveling. Before traveling, I make sure to finish assignments and stay caught up with lectures and announcements. Before midterms, I start a study week with friends and we usually meet up at cafes. Not only is it great for having that social time, but also for having accessibility to a source that can help with studying.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community?
Meeting new people was one of the major goals I had, so I applied to a few mentoring programs and clubs. There, I met many locals who were enthusiastic about meeting foreigners, so we often set up lunch and dinner appointments to talk about our culture, opinions, and differences. I also met many locals through classes. Groups would often meet over dinner to talk and discuss about class projects and that led up to friendships.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic? 
Staying safe is very important and the most important thing is following guidelines. That means wearing a mask at all times, try avoiding crowded areas, and getting vaccines. While studying abroad, people were required to have vaccine passes to eat at restaurants and use local facilities.

Posted on Students

Ingrid Camberos Gallardo

Ingrid Camberos Gallardo
Location: Florence, Italy
Program: CSU Florence Center
Term: Spring 2022 Semester
Major: Political Science
Year: 3rd year

Why did you want to study abroad? 
In my high school there was a program called American Field Service (AFS) and we would exchange with different high schools across the US, as well as receiving year long exchange students from around the world. I’ve exchanged to Japan, Boston, and Chicago and due to that I have always wanted to study abroad for a year once I was in college.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
The most positive experience studying abroad is the amount of travel once can get done. I’ve travelled to 18 different countries while being abroad and I still have a whole semester left!

Any advice to potential study abroad students?
My advice to potential study abroad students is to get a Eurail train pass. This train pass is how I managed to create an efficient travel itinerary that would allow me to go around Europe for a lower cost. (They have student discounts)

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic? 
My classes have all been in person and that’s what has helped me a lot while being abroad.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community ?
Meeting local people and keeping communication while my time abroad has been such a fun way of saying in touch with the local community. As well as going to the same restaurants, because they now know my the names of my friends and I.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic?
My only tip would be to respect the guidelines of each country. Some countries don’t require mask, and some do. I tend to follow the rules of the country in which I am in.

Molizabeth Sieng
Posted on Students

Molizabeth Sieng

Molizabeth Sieng
Location: France
Program: SJSU Exchange at Sciences Po Lille
Term: Spring 2022 Semester
Major: Political Science major and a Legal Studies minor.
Year: 3rd year

Why did you want to study abroad? 
There are a bunch of reasons I wanted to study abroad, for one, my brother actually studied abroad with SJSU in Australia and he loved it, so it was something that I always thought about doing before I even entered college. Also discovering that Science Po Lille was an option made me want to do it even more. As someone who is interested in attending law school after undergrad and pursuing a career in international law, studying abroad, especially at such a prestigious university in France, made sense to me. Aside from the educational and career benefits studying abroad has, I also felt like it’s important to immerse yourself in cultures different from your own. Even though as Americans, especially coming from San Jose, we are extremely lucky to be surrounded by such diversity, it truly isn’t the same when you don’t just see a different culture but you actually live in it. So I guess to sum it up, I wanted to study abroad because it sounded cool, would probably look cool on my resume and law school applications, and for personal growth.

What has been your most surprising, positive, or challenging experience abroad?
The most challenging experience would definitely have to be dealing with homesickness. Growing up with 9 older siblings and constantly being around family, it was extremely difficult to learn how and get used to being completely by myself. Not to mention being completely by yourself in a country where you don’t speak the native language! Although I definitely do have my days in which I feel like sleeping the entire day to pass time by, I just have to constantly remind myself that I may not get an opportunity to do something like this ever again and that it’s a temporary thing so I should try my hardest to get out, live, and enjoy everything while it lasts.

Any advice to potential study abroad students?
My advice would be, as cliche as it sounds, embrace the opportunity to be abroad. Don’t be afraid of getting out of your comfort zone, of running into obstacles, or failing. Another piece of advice is scholarships!! Take advantage of the scholarships offered by your major department, by the study abroad office, by the government, etc! It’ll be much more fun when you don’t have to focus and stress about finances and can just experience everything!

I received $4,000 from Gilman and $5,000 from the Department of Political Science from SJSU (John Gilbert Scholarship for International Studies). I also am a financial aid recipient which covered my tuition as well as gave me around $4,000 in grants. I created an excel sheet with all of my potential expenses and this was more than enough to cover everything, so I didn’t apply to many other scholarships. I didn’t really need to budget on anything coming to France. I was able to buy a Disneyland Paris annual pass, the Eurail global pass, and other leisure things while still being able to live comfortably.

How are you managing your academic success abroad during the pandemic? 
With some courses still being online and being in a different country, it certainly is hard to resist the urge to go out and explore new things instead of being on top of school work. But what really helps is creating a little schedule, planning which days will be dedicated to studying and which days will be dedicated to going out, as well as staying connected with classmates.

What are some ways that you are interacting with the local community?
I try to go out whenever I have down time. Whenever I don’t have class or just have readings to do I’ll take my laptop to cafes or bars and stay there. I also follow the university’s international student clubs. They often organize fun events that enable people to explore the community through a local’s perspective.

What are some tips for managing your health and safety while traveling during the pandemic? 
Listening to and following the rules and mandates they have in place is a big one. Aside from that, it is important to just stay cautious, aware, and respectful of your surroundings. Avoid things or situations that’ll put you at an unnecessary risk.