Category Archives: Global Ambassadors

Conrad Avery

Conrad Avery

MAJOR: Computer Science and Linguistics

PROGRAM: SSA – Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea

EMAIL: conrad.avery@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Conrad Avery(He/Him) and I am going into my second year here at SJSU studying Computer Science. I recently finished up my Study Abroad term at SKKU in Seoul, South Korea this past summer and it was a wonderful experience that I will forever cherish. I chose to study abroad because I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and experience education in a different country. I had also never been overseas before and thought that this was an excellent time for me to experience true independence and learn about myself in a different culture.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I have had many leadership, volunteer, and job experiences at SJSU. I was the academic chairman of my fraternity, Delta Sigma Phi, where I was directly responsible for improving the academics of my brothers in the fraternity. I served as a student at large in the spring for the Associated Students Finance Committee. I am an active Army ROTC cadet here at SJSU as well. Most recently, I have joined the 2024-2025 SJSU college corps cohort where I will teach computer science curriculum to elementary school students.

GOALS: My goals for my study abroad experience were to interact with people from different countries and see how their educational upbringings differ from mine. I also wanted to engage with the local community of South Korea and understand what it is like to be the minority or foreigner in a country. On a professional side, I wanted to get a good experience of what it is like working with people of vastly different backgrounds and cultures and understand how to get past these differences to work towards a common goal.

Here I am wearing the hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace, embracing the beauty of Korean tradition

ACADEMICS: My study abroad experience will be unforgettable. It was an amazing time where I learned so much about myself and also about how different parts of the world outside of my United States bubble operate. I took a course that focused on developing sustainable computer science technology and I made sure to be friendly with my peers to help my academic success. This experience has impacted the way I view my academics back at SJSU because now I have a better understanding of how to communicate with people of different backgrounds and how to be more understanding of people with these different backgrounds.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Being someone who had never left the United States, let alone flown over seas, it was a very unique experience to be in an entire different country where daily things and tasks are run differently than the US. I could immediately notice the difference in culture in South Korea compared to the US whether it be the cleanliness, the work culture, or even the shopping culture. It was very interesting to me to see what I though South Korea did better than the US and what the US did better than South Korea and also ways that each country could adapt aspects from the other to make themselves more efficient. Coming back to the US now, I liked to compare small things to South Korea, for example the public transportation in the US and wonder how the US could implement a system similar to South Korea.

CAREER: I learned how to adapt to a new environment and also how to live when being outside of my comfort zone. Going to South Korea was something that was very daunting to me and was something I had never done before but I learned how to live with discomfort which has helped me back home where I am stressed or don’t like how something is in my life. On a professional and academic side, I learned better empathy. Hearing stories of my fellow students in the classroom opened my mind up more to the idea that people all come from different upbringings and have different experiences which shape their views which I should keep in mind when making decisions.

PERSONAL GROWTH: The biggest impact that my study abroad experience had on me was understanding that there is life outside of the United States bubble I had been raised in for all my life. I could only learn so much from reading or watching videos online, but actually living in South Korea and experiencing what it was like to live somewhere else very much opened my mind up to how different people in different countries live. I became so much more comfortable with the culture of South Korea that when I came back to the US, I felt homesick in the way that I still wanted to be back in South Korea. This was something that I never would have expected me to have felt, even on my last day in South Korea and it really showed me how much I missed the ability to explore both physically and mentally about what I enjoy.

IDENTITIES:  Being half Asian yet never having the chance to leave the US, I had always felt a little disconnected with my Asian heritage but when I came to South Korea I was able to get a better glimpse into what Asian culture is like and connect more with my Asian heritage.

FUTURE: Study abroad has prepared me for the future in that I now feel confident in having to start a life somewhere completely new. I now know I will be able to adapt to my environment and also learn from my environment. Study abroad has also helped me make connections and understand life outside of the US so I know how to consider different country cultures when talking to people of different backgrounds.

TIPS: Live in the moment and tell yourself to remember every second or write about every adventure. For me, South Korea was very packed with a different adventure each day and had I not been keeping track and logging everything I did, I would have forgotten about a lot of what happened.

Josie Hammar

Josie Hammar

MAJOR: English/Creative Writing

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange –  University of Roehampton, England

EMAIL:  sisterjenny@jbear.org

BIO: My name is Josie Hammar and I am about to enter my fourth year at SJSU. I am studying English Literature because I have a passion for writing and reading stories that make an impact. I studied abroad in London during my spring 2024 semester and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I chose to do this for quite a few reasons, the first one being that I wanted to explore a world outside of the only one I’ve ever known here in the bay area. I wanted to be in a place where no one already knew me, where I could make my own friendships and connections as who I am now. Additionally, since I am studying English Literature I thought it would be appropriate to study at the heart of this major; in England. In my time there I traveled so much and learned immensely about their culture and history, as well as in the classes I took. I also wanted to be able to have new, riveting, life changing experiences in a place I had never before been to. I’ve always lived in the same place my whole life and I craved something new and thrilling.

LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEER, AND JOB EXPERIENCES:I have taken part in many leadership/volunteer opportunities. For example, I am currently a mentor for the youth group at Sant Clara First Baptist Church and have been in this role for two years, and have been a camp counselor for two years as well. I have also volunteered at elementary schools and helped lead other nonprofit church events. For work experience, I was a barista at Teaspoon for over a year, and worked as a customer service associate at Sally Beauty Supply for about two months. And I am about to start a new job as a barista at Coffee and Water Lab.

GOALS: One goal I had was to change and grow as a person. I wanted to have my mind blown by all the new people I would meet, the places I would see and experiences I would have. I wanted to walk out of this journey different than who I was at the start. Another goal I had was to thrive independently, to be fully immersed in another culture and learn from the people there, and gain invaluable knowledge from my classes. I wanted to travel and experience different worlds than what I was used to. My other goal was to make lifelong friendships. And all of these, I am happy to say I have achieved.

ACADEMICS: I took three classes. One was based on Greek and roman mythology, the other was a creative and professional writing class, and the last was literature based on film and philosophy. These are actually the first classes I took for my major now that I’ve completed my GE’s, so I went into them with excitement and motivation. In order to succeed, I made sure to be fully immersed in learning everything we were taught, and often consulted with my professors. It also helped that I was really passionate about everything we studied in these classes. Now that I’ve done school abroad, I am very much looking forward to taking more classes here at SJSU with a fresh perspective and hopefully can apply what I learned overseas.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: I not only met people from England, but from all over Europe as well as Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America. Being surrounded by those who weren’t just American was definitely a cultural shock for me, but it was also a very beautiful and eye opening experience.

CAREER: My communication, networking, and independence skills have all sharpened during my time abroad. Being a new student I was forced to meet as many people as I could, and I am very grateful for this because it led me to some of the most amazing people. Since I’ve been back I feel that I am able to better apply all of these in my daily and academic life. Overall, I am a much more confident and motivated person that is eager to get to know more people from different cultures.

PERSONAL GROWTH: This entire journey was the greatest decision I’ve ever made for myself. It was something so unfathomably new and exciting, but ultimately very liberating. This was the biggest impact for me. After going to a new country by myself and making an entire life there, I feel that I can achieve anything. It definitely put me in a vulnerable position at first but I believe that I needed to feel that way in order to see what I could do and build from the ground up. I want other students to be able to experience this as well.

IDENTITIES: When I first started college I struggled with severe anxiety and was at a very low point in my life. I never thought I would be able to do something such as study abroad, and yet every decision I’ve made since the start of my college experience led me here. It has helped me to realize that I’m much stronger than I give myself credit for.

FUTURE: Study abroad has prepared me for the future by helping me to expand my traveling, independence, communication, and networking skills as well as my knowledge of other countries and cultures. I can use all of this information in my future opportunities, friendships and careers.

TIPS: Trying something new is never a waste. Even the smallest decision you make can change your life in ways you never thought possible. Studying abroad is the best choice I ever made and it changed my life immensely. I’m much more confident, have friends and memories I’ll never forget, and have experienced a journey that most people have not. If you’re able to take this chance, do it and put all of your heart into it. You never know what may come out of an opportunity such as this or how it will shape you and your future. 

Isabella Dandoy

Isabella Dandoy

MAJOR: Journalism

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland

EMAIL: isabella.dandoy@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Isabella Dandoy (she/her) and I am a senior at SJSU majoring in journalism. I chose to study abroad for personal and professional reasons. I wanted to make new connections with others in my field worldwide and learn from my professors and mentors. I also wanted to grow as an individual by harboring self-confidence and independence.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: At SJSU, I spent a year working on The Spear, SJSU’s sports publication. I spent my first semester as a reporter and my second semester as a content editor. I am also the secretary and one of the musical directors for SJSU’s all-female a Capella club, the Spartan Stellas. Before my study abroad experience, I worked part-time as a retail associate at Tilly’s, a clothing store.

GOALS: I wanted to live independently and solo travel. Academically and professionally, I wanted to learn and connect with other mentors in my field. I wanted to excel in all of my courses and receive high marks. I also wanted to explore every corner of Edinburgh, so that if I returned, I could show my family and friends around in the best way possible.

ACADEMICS: At Edinburgh Napier, I took 3 courses: Digital Media Content Creation, Global Media Industries, and Sports Journalism. I made an effort to connect with each of my professors and always reached out for help or feedback whenever I needed it. I prioritized all of my schoolwork to be finished early so that I could allot the remainder of my time to exploring and traveling. Because the courses work much differently at Edinburgh Napier compared to SJSU, it was easy to adjust when I studied abroad. I was very prepared and motivated to receive high marks in each class.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: At Edinburgh Napier, I joined the book club with one of my international friends. I also joined a neighboring university’s Filipino Society (University of Edinburgh). I was able to meet so many people from different ethnic backgrounds. But it was also nice to meet other students who were also Filipino. In Edinburgh, I was able to tour the city and learn about its culture. I was also able to travel to the Highlands and experience its beauty. Because I come from a family that loves to travel the world, I’ve learned that travel is all about keeping an open mind and immersing yourself into different cultures. Though my travel didn’t change my perspective, it did strengthen it.

CAREER: I was able to further hone my skills in audio and video editing, as well as use my journalistic writing skills in a professional setting at a Scottish Premier Football League match. Through feedback and assistance from my professors and peers, I learned to adopt British English in my writing. I also did lots of presentations and gained more public speaking experience. I learned how to utilize different software like Adobe Audition and Shorthand to tell different stories in an intricate way. Through my courses, I was able to reignite my artistic expression and creativity.

PERSONAL GROWTH: My study abroad experience has granted me a newfound confidence that I wouldn’t have been able to discover elsewhere. Being far away from home, you’re almost forced to be self-reliant and independent. I was motivated to become the best version of myself. Studying abroad was one of the best, yet hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but I’m so grateful I did.

IDENTITIES: There were a couple of times I was met with sexist and bigoted exchange students who disagreed with the sentiments that and me and my female friends shared about equal pay/opportunity. There were also a few racist remarks I received from other exchange students that assumed my ethnicity. Despite all of these obstacles, both of these identities persisted and became even more visible. I was proud of who I was and never hid it.

FUTURE: I have connections around the world, both friendship and professional. I am more willing to leave my hometown of San Jose and grow elsewhere once I’ve graduated. I’m more confident in situations where I don’t know anyone; I’m not as much of an introvert as I was a year prior. Being “new” doesn’t scare me anymore. I’ve learned and honed more technical skills that I can utilize in future journalistic practices.

TIPS: Always keep an open​​​​​​​ mind and a willingness to learn. No matter what country you decide to study abroad in, your greatest strength as a student abroad is your ability to listen. Learn from those around you and immerse yourself in new cultures. By the time you return home, you can say that you were a local yourself.

Michael Brown

Michael Brown

NAME: Michael Brown

MAJOR: Psychology

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland

EMAIL: Michael.j.brown@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Michael Brown, and I chose to study abroad because it had always been a goal of mine in college along with wanting to broaden my horizons as a student and an individual and using the experience of being around a different culture and people helped exponentially in this. Studying abroad has helped instill a strong sense of self, strengthened my self-confidence, and opened my eyes to numerous opportunities  available to me in the future post-grad.

LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I was apart of many organizations during my time in high school, as I helped my senior class plan events, and fundraisers as well as communicating vital information that the graduating seniors around me would need. I also was a captain on my track and field team, and helped lead practice and stretching at the end of the day. In terms of leadership experience at SJSU, I was only here a semester before going abroad as I was a transfer student, so I am hoping to be involved in leadership opportunities this upcoming fall semester.

GOALS: Goals I had set out to acheive when studying abroad was to gain insight into my major Psychology, from a non-american perspective, along with being open to meeting new people, and trying to involve myself with new experiences and clubs in order to full feel immersed in the culture as I was abroad. Other personal goals were to be able to adapt to a different climate, and be able to adapt to a city that had a better system of public transit and walkability. It was also a goal of mine to make friends abroad in order to establish connection to them and be able to still follow up with each other and see what we’re all up to.

ACADEMICS: I took a Psychology of Immigration course, a Brain and Cognition course, and a Social Psychology Course. Out of all three of these, the one that impacted me the most and what I took the most from back with me to SJSU was the psychology of immigration course. Learning about the different aspects and views that the UK has on immigration versus the ones the US has was an interesting part of the course, and also learning the way within psychology these two nations’ cultures influence the differences of the issue. Using this new world view, and bringing back the knowledge I gained to SJSU, it will help me think in a broader scope when it comes to psychology as a science as there are so many different people all over the world, and that should be accounted for.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: My immersion impacted my perspective on the world through being able to be around so many different people all over Europe, it helped me understand that we’re not all that different. Yes, the different cultures are numerous and intricate, but at the root of it were all just people and that was a big takeaway from it for me. It also helped me understand the difference from my peers to myself, as they were around my age but had a completely different life from me having grown up in Scotland versus growing up in California. This definitely helped make the world feel a lot smaller and less daunting.

CAREER: Skills that I learned and grew in when being abroad were problem-solving skills, interpretation, and overall awareness. Having been able to have the privilege to travel a lot while being based in Edinburgh, there were many different languages, customs, public transit and airports, and food that I had to navigate and learn about for the first time. Having the self-assurance that I could figure out this new city and its people helped me tremendously as it was only me who I had to make sure got things that I needed done, or else they wouldn’t have gotten done. This aspect of being abroad strengthened the overall independence, grit, and ability to make sure I was safe and aware of what was going on in order to have fun while traveling but also be able to learn how so many new places worked.

PERSONAL GROWTH: The biggest impact that studying abroad had on me was the fact that the world is bigger than I could have ever imagined but that also it’s quite small at the same time. I learned so much about what I like in a city, and in a culture, along with seeing exponential growth in myself and being able to take that confidence back with me and be able to feel more self assured back home then I ever have been able to.

IDENTITIES: I would say my identity as an LGBTQ+ individual in Scotland was a better experience than I would’ve had back home. In Edinburgh it was very open and welcome to people who are under this umbrella and I felt for affirmed and safer in this city than I have in many places back in the US.

FUTURE: The advice I would give to future Global Spartans is to do a lot of research about where you are studying at and where you want to travel to, but also be open to letting go of that knowledge and just exist in the space you find yourself in. Walk into a random store or supermarket. Sit in the park and just observe and people watch. The research and knowledge will serve as a backbone but shouldn’t be the sole supporter of your time abroad. And take lots of pictures!

Cara Cahambing

Cara Cahambing

NAME: Cara Cahambing

MAJOR: Public Health

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Liverpool John Moores University, England

EMAIL: carajordan.cahambing@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Cara, and I’m a fourth-year student at SJSU. In the spring of 2024, I studied abroad in England, which was an exciting experience for me. I’ve always loved traveling, and this trip gave me a chance to explore a new place. I chose to study abroad because I wanted to grow as a person and learn more about myself.

LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEER, AND JOB EXPERIENCES: I’ve held internship positions and leadership roles in my campus organization. Some of these internship roles worked within local communities and leading a hgihschol cohort of students in community outreach. I’ve also been selected to attend leadership conferences, which took me to Seattle and Mississippi.

GOALS: During my study abroad experience, I set out to achieve several personal, academic, and professional goals. Personally, I wanted to become more independent and confident by navigating a new country on my own. Academically, I aimed to broaden my perspective by immersing myself in a different educational system and learning from diverse cultural viewpoints. Professionally, I sought to develop skills that would make me more adaptable and globally aware, qualities I believe are essential in today’s interconnected world. Each of these goals helped shape a more well-rounded and self-assured version of myself.

ACADEMICS: While abroad, I took mainly public health courses and one nutrition course for my minor. The school wasn’t very strict about attendance, as most of the course materials were posted online, and there were no regular homework assignments. Instead, the focus was on the final exam and independent research. Adjusting to this system was challenging because they used different research methods and writing formats. The classes were smaller, requiring active participation if the professor was engaging. However, many professors simply lectured for hours until the class ended. Academically, these courses gave me insight into the public health issues that are more prominent in the Eastern hemisphere. For the finals, we were often allowed to choose our own topics, and the professors encouraged us to select something that genuinely interested us.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:

Studying abroad has shifted my perspective on many aspects of life, from daily habits to my overall outlook. I had always heard that Americans are judged for pursuing careers that make them happy, even if it doesn’t align with their family’s expectations. Meanwhile, the stereotype suggests that people in other countries are more academically driven to meet family expectations. However, I found this isn’t entirely true. In fact, people abroad often live by rules that promote a healthier lifestyle and a more relaxed approach to life. Students immerse themselves in topics that interest them, with an education system that encourages deep research rather than assigning excessive homework.

During my stay with family in Italy, I noticed they were strict about meal times and only drank coffee after 11 a.m. to avoid dependency. I enjoyed the more relaxed pace of life, and surprisingly, I felt healthier, especially compared to how I usually feel in the U.S.

CAREER: My experience abroad taught me how to adapt more effectively to different cultures, both professionally and socially. Being in a foreign country without speaking the native language can be challenging, and it’s crucial to stay respectful of the local culture. Professionally, I faced language barriers despite studying in England, where English is spoken. The use of unfamiliar slang and accents in class was difficult to understand, requiring me to adjust. Networking was particularly challenging, as many students already had established friend groups from primary school. I had to push myself to engage socially and make a conscious effort to connect with classmates.

PERSONAL GROWTH: Participating in my abroad program had a profound impact on me, as I successfully navigated a new life in an unfamiliar country all by myself. This experience taught me a great deal about who I am, revealing my true interests, what I value in friendships, and what brings me fulfillment. It gave me a renewed sense of independence and the confidence to embrace significant life changes on my own. The lessons I learned during this time continue to shape my approach to challenges and personal growth, making this experience one of the most transformative in my life.

IDENTITIES: As an Asian American in Liverpool, I stood out quite a bit. I joined the club lacrosse team and performed well, which gave me an advantage since lacrosse isn’t a popular sport there. This helped me start building my social life in Liverpool. Many people were excited to learn I was American and asked me a lot of questions. This was a frequent experience throughout my time there, and I often met people who were surprised to meet me.

FUTURE: Studying abroad has significantly benefited my professional development. It pushed me to improve my networking skills and step out of my comfort zone. I had to make new friends and get involved in activities I wasn’t used to. Facing constant change helped me adapt to different personalities and cultures, which is valuable experience for any career. This repeated exposure allowed me to practice and refine skills I hadn’t used consistently before.

TIPS: Be open-minded and explore campus clubs to make new friends. One thing I regret from my experience is not staying longer and building stronger friendships. As you enter a new place as a foreigner, embracing new opportunities and connecting with others will set you up for success. Being open to different experiences and people will help you make the most of your time abroad and create lasting memories.

Emily Benson

Emily Benson

MAJOR: Justice Studies/Criminology
PROGRAM: ISEP Direct – American College of Thessaloniki, Greece
EMAIL: emily.benson@sjsu.edu

BIO: Hello, I am Emily Benson. I am currently a junior at San Jose State, majoring in Criminology. I am a hard-working individual who is passionate about community involvement. I have spent many years volunteering for my local Police Department in San Diego, holding a variety of leadership positions involving myself and philanthropic work. I wanted to study abroad to expand my experiences, meet new people, learn about a different culture, and develop my global citizen awareness. I have wanted to study abroad in Greece since I was a freshman in high school and knew that I would experience studying abroad in college.

GOALS: The main goal I wanted to achieve in studying abroad was to immerse myself as much as I could in the daily life of a Greek citizen in the 3 1/2 months I spent in Thessaloniki, Greece. Studying at the American College of Thessaloniki(ACT) has been described as taking the road less traveled, being that it is a smaller city in northern Greece and is not the typical destination of metropolitan Athens. Although many people would choose to study in Athens, the largest city in Greece, my goal was to live and experience life in a smaller town rather than a tourist destination. Studying at ACT gave me that opportunity. I lived in an apartment right in the heart of town with local residents in the building and had firsthand experience with the local culture every day. Academically, I wanted to maintain high standings with my home and abroad university. I wanted to expand my knowledge of the region that I was in. I sought out community involvement through my academics. It was important to me that I fully immerse myself in Greek culture, and I did this by taking 10 hours of Greek language and culture a week. I wanted not to be a tourist but rather a guest in the country I was studying in. I felt as though I achieved this goal substantially and fully spoke, ordered, and communicated in Greek while I was there. I took an intensive conversational Greek language class which helped me excel and learn a language. I learned so much about the Greek language and culture and felt very connected to the community. Greek culture and language are all around us in America, so many of our words originate from Greek origin. Professionally, I wanted to network and meet people from all different walks of life. I was able to work with a diverse group of people from all over Europe in my classes, and also in an internship I had while in Greece.

PERSONAL GROWTH: The biggest impact my study abroad experience had on me was my understanding of the world. My time in Greece was truly transformative. This experience is something I will treasure forever. Being immersed in another country and society is something I needed to experience. I have felt a tremendous amount of personal growth in my short time here. I have truly learned so many valuable lessons and insights. Learning about Greek history, society, and culture my international compass has expanded greatly. I have learned the importance of living a fulfilling life in my short time here. In Greek culture and most cultures in Europe, your leisure is prioritized. Specific hours are set aside each day for rest and family time. You work, but you also rest, which creates a happy, healthy community and family life. This is something I have never experienced. In America, our society and big corporations work you to the max. Working 12-hour days with little to no breaks. If you’re afforded a break, it will be an hour for lunch. Our society does not incorporate leisure into the weekdays. Even on the weekends, many are still working and do not get to fully enjoy their leisure. I appreciate how Greeks care for the well-being of their society members. Being immersed in a culture that isn’t controlled by the clock is such a privilege. The clock is not the master, is something my Greek professor said to me that I will always remember. The clock is used to control my life with deadlines, time commitments, and time-sensitive things. I have acknowledged how less stressed I am now that I am no longer a victim of the clock. I think the reason the stress levels are so high in America is the pressure of not having enough time and the amount of stress put on us by society to get everything done in a certain amount of time, which is often very unrealistic. I find myself enjoying my days to a greater extent and being present. My overall takeaway is that I have become for the present and now prioritize my leisure. I have never felt more present in my mind, body, or soul ever before in my life. I don’t feel a sense of urgency to get everything done in one day and stress about future events. I enjoy and express profound gratitude for every peaceful day I was granted in Greece. Being present is so important. I have struggled with living in my mind rather than living in the present. Living in Greece has strengthened my ability to be present every day and express more mindfulness. I feel much happier and calm as I appreciate being present. I find my stress and anxiety decreasing as I am not so fixated on the future and future events and things that are not under my control. This skill is something I will never unlearn and something I will take with me forever to apply to my everyday life.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad? My academic journey at the American College of Thessaloniki was exquisite. I selected courses that were diverse from my normal class schedule. I chose courses that were unique to the American College of Thessaloniki. I was fortunate enough to take a Greek language class, a Greek culture class, a sea sailing course, a politics course, and an internship course. I had fantastic professors abroad. I took my Greek courses from a local Greek woman filled with knowledge and experience. She changed the trajectory of my academic journey at ACT as she made all of the American students feel so connected with Greek culture and tied together the similarities in both American and Greek communities. One of my favorite classes at ACT was the introduction to sea sailing from a Greek professor who had a profound knowledge of sailing. This class was taught in a local marina near my campus, and it was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. We worked together and demonstrated the art of sailing through a new language, a new skill- set, and hands-on experience. Every professor at ACT deepened my understanding of a variety of topics from a new perspective. The structure of the courses is very similar to a course taken at San Jose State University but feels less intense. The classes are smaller, which allows students to get more one-on-one time with the professor, which I felt was very effective. The professors incorporated many breaks and prioritized our well-being during learning, which was very effective in my academic journey in Greece. I completed my semester with over a 3.8 GPA and did not fall behind in any course abroad. I prioritize my course load with traveling and was sure to consistently work hard, after all it is called STUDYING abroad!

CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? The most formative change in my 20 years of life has come from my study abroad experience. I developed a new skill set and sharpened my interpersonal and networking skills while abroad. Everything I knew about living in America was flipped upside down and then flipped over once again from the language, the time zone, the customs, and the quality of life. The biggest skill that was built was my ability to learn and apply a new language and alphabet. This is the third language that I’ve learned and by far the most challenging. I learn to deal with the change and communicate with locals. This came with being flexible and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. When I would speak to locals, my pronunciation was off and I pushed myself to refrain from speaking English and strengthen my Greek speaking skills. I was able to relate to people from different backgrounds. My classes were full of people from all over Europe, and it was fascinating to hear other students’ perspectives, and listen to them speak from experience from their countries. Through the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), I applied and was selected for a content Creator position. I was tasked with compiling pictures and videos of my everyday life in Thessaloniki and capturing my lifestyle of myself and friends. I love this position so much and knew I wanted to continue this working experience at home. I have an eye for photography in this position to help me strengthen my skill set and give me the opportunity to form a connection with employees at ISEP. I made connections with my professors and boss at my internship that I will forever maintain. The boss at my internship offered me to continue helping her while I’m in America. I am in communication with her and lucky enough to form an active networking connection.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? I was granted the opportunity to hold an internship position through ACT. The organization that I intern for is called NAOMI, a non-profit organization that specializes in Ecumenical Workshops for Refugees in Thessaloniki. After the Syrian war, thousands of people flooded through Greece. Many refugees have traveled back to their home country or sought out a home in other parts of Europe, but many refugees live here in Thessaloniki today. Naomi wants the refugees to become acclimated to Greek culture and language, their goal is to support refugees and provide peace for all. By doing this, they have workshops that entail refugee learning, basic Greek, learning how to use specific machines(like sewing machines), And practice with soft skills, ECT. Prior to this internship, I didn’t realize what a problem refugees were in Europe, specifically in Greece. Naomi comprises two parts: the production part and the social justice part. The production part of the organization focuses on sustainability. The second part of Naomi is the social justice department. This department focuses on rights and job equality for all refugees who are not afforded the same rights as citizens. The part that I intern for in Naomi is the social justice side. I work with the head of the social justice department with designated tasks, such as looking over newsletters that were once in Germany, translated to English and needed a proofread, taking photos of the refugees, workshops, and events, and crafting the newsletter for this upcoming month. I have gained experience with preparing a Newsletter on Naomi’s current events and textile department. The work I have done at this job has given me a sense of responsibility. I haven’t had a job or position where I felt like I was actively making a significant change. The skill set I now possess is something I will take with me forever. This internship opportunity has given me valuable skills that I will never unlearn. I haven’t worked in an office-like setting, and this gave me experience with great responsibility. Some of my key takeaways don’t only come from the work that I have done but also from the work ethic that I have seen in this community. Being an intern at this organization has forever shifted my perspective on life. I have been fortunate enough to be a part of an organization that does so much for the community. The knowledge and experience I have gained from this community will forever resonate with me and significantly depend on my international community involvement. I now have a burning passion for international work, and think this is something I will continue to do throughout my life.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? My Study Abroad experience has shaped my worldly perspective and prepared me to think about things from a different perspective. This perspective change will help not only me personally but professionally in the future. In my early 20s, I have seen the world. I have experienced several cultures and am open to so many new experiences. Life experience shapes who you are as a human being. I was granted a variety of experiences in all of Europe that altered who I am today.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans? I would tell future global spartans to be open-minded and open to learning new things about the culture, even when it’s challenging. Be prepared to use the local currency, phone, and transportation system. Be aware of the differences, but also learn to cherish them. English is widely spoken in some countries, but take the opportunity to learn the community’s language and don’t be afraid to use it. In Greece, the locals were so thankful and appreciative that we took the time to learn their language and apply it in our daily lives. Do absolutely everything! Go to the city’s landmarks and learn about the city, history, and heritage. Take advantage of the chance to travel through your host country and other surrounding countries. You will learn so much on those trips and through the people you meet. I am the biggest advocate of telling everyone in my life that they need to study abroad. I wish I could convince every college student to go abroad and be immersed in another culture in such a formative part of their college years.

Hratch Momjian

Hratch Momjian

MAJOR: Mechanical Engineering
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kyushu University – Fukuoka, Japan
EMAIL: hratch.momjian@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Hratch Momjian and I am currently a 3rd year mechanical engineering major at SJSU. I’m a first generation Armenian-American, who always liked sharing my cultural differences with others. Furthermore, I also really enjoy talking to people with all kinds of different backgrounds and cultural experiences. If I speak to someone with an English accent I typically ask where they’re from because I enjoy hearing their stories and how they got to their current situation. Because of this, I really wanted to go and study abroad as I would be in a place where I am surrounded by people who have lived completely different lives from me.

GOALS: My goals when studying abroad were to make friends, study in a different environment and, most importantly, step outside of my comfort zone. Throughout my life I have stayed within my comfort zone where I feel best in and would always feel uneasy if I had to do something outside of it. Studying abroad would definitely throw me way outside of my comfort zone and force me to become a much more adaptable person. Being adaptable in any situation helps in networking and general problem solving. Being able to stay calm and collected during a rough time, whether that be in school, work or personal life, allows me to execute what I would like to do most effectively.

PERSONAL GROWTH: I think there are two ways that I grew as a person: self-sufficiency and sociability. Before going abroad I felt as if I was never a sociable person. I never was really able to connect with people who I was not already friends with. Most of my friends at home were also people who were similar to me and talking with them would be much easier. However, after going abroad I think my sociability has improved greatly. I feel much more confident to go out and actually speak with people who are not like me. My self-sufficiency has also improved as I no longer feel that I always need to be surrounded by people to be happy. Before coming to Japan, going outside and doing things alone was never an option. I would always ask friends if they wanted to go with me and if they didn’t say yes, I would simply not go out. However, I now feel much better about doing things I want to do even if I don’t have anyone accompanying me.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad? I took seven upper division engineering courses which made my academic experience quite difficult. However, I don’t believe that it was because the courses themselves were difficult but the method of studying was different to ours at SJSU. In Japan, the professor did a lot more of lecturing than actually giving out and reviewing homework assignments. Furthermore, they had an expectation that the students would not only study the given material but also do self studying on their own. Now this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it was just a different way of doing it. The students are on their own much more. When coming back to SJSU I feel much better about studying on my own now as before I would just rely on the professor to give out the assignment and teach. I am more self-reliant than before thus making me more confident to do well in a class where the professor might not be the best.

CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? I think I definitely sharpened my ability to connect with people that I had never met before and are completely different from me. When you go out and try to get jobs, you are inevitably going to be talking with people who are nothing like you. Having the ability to connect and positively impact each other has proven to be a great skill to have as other people will enjoy being around you. Going abroad sharpened this skill for me and made me feel much more confident going into job interviews and making a better first impression which will lead to a higher success rate of landing jobs.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? After going abroad I think I am much more appreciative of what my parents have done to get my family and I to comfortably live in America. Hearing the stories of other exchange students and international students, I understand how lucky I am that I grew up in America without needing to move back and forth between different places. A lot of the other students ended up studying in multiple different international schools in different countries, moving two or three times in their lives. I don’t think I ever really understood how difficult that makes life for them: making lifelong friends is harder, opening up to others is harder and simply getting comfortable is harder.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? Studying abroad has prepared me for the future by enhancing my social skills. I believe that I am much more comfortable with speaking to new people who have immensely different backgrounds compared to me. When I am going to be in job interviews, the interviewers are going to be people who are not my age nor have any of the life experiences that I would be able to relate to. However, after going abroad I feel like I will be able to relate and connect with these people much more easily thus helping me land more jobs. Everyone I speak to in my life is not going to be friends that have done the same things I’ve done, eaten the same things I’ve eaten, played the same games I have and after going abroad, conversing with these people will no longer be a problem for me.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans? I would say: “Don’t hole up in your room. You don’t get this opportunity often so I don’t think it would be smart to hole up and not do anything when you have all these options and chances to do so many different things. Try and make new friends there, and try not to rely on your friends at home for social communication. If you are staying for a semester or two, having friends abroad will make your life more interesting and fun while you’re away, all while keeping you from feeling any sense of loneliness. Having people to hang out with makes you forget about home and helps get you through those days where you miss home and want to go back, which I assure happens to everyone. Furthermore these friends that you make abroad will be awesome people to know especially if you decide to come back and visit again. Lastly, making friends builds your communication and social skills that will help you in the future with job applications and career events. Go out there and have some fun! Don’t hold back!”

Janette Albor Hernandez

Janette Albor Hernandez

MAJOR: Business Administration/Finance
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
EMAIL: janette.alborhernandez@sjsu.edu

BIO: Hello my name is Janette. I was born and raised in Santa Rosa, California. I transferred to SJSU in the Fall of 2022 from Santa Rosa Community College. I am a fourth year Finance major graduating in the Fall of 2024. I always wanted to study abroad since high school but due to unforeseen circumstances and then recently Covid-19, my trip was always canceled. After transferring to SJSU I attended an information session and knew I had to apply. I decided to study abroad to immerse myself in a new culture, learn a new language, travel, gain new opportunities and also make lifelong friends.

GOALS: Personal- I wanted to become more independent, not be afraid to try new things and gain confidence for personal development. I also wanted to develop an understanding of diverse cultures and make friends. Academic – I wanted to gain new knowledge, explore new perspectives and methodologies when learning about how business works in a different country. Professional – I wanted to build international friendships by networking which can lead to future career opportunities. I also wanted to gain new skills such as working effectively in diverse teams which are essential for success in globalized industries and professions.

PERSONAL GROWTH: I think the biggest impact that my study abroad experience had on me was definitely gaining independence and self discovery. Being away from home going to a country where English is not spoken as much challenged me in many ways. I definitely stepped out of my comfort zone by trying new things. I even went solo traveling to other countries which is something I never would have done before. I became more free spirited and my confidence grew.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad? I ended up taking three courses abroad. Quantitative Business Analysis Financial Intermediaries International Financial Management Some strategies that I used were to manage my time wisely by having a planner. Classes were once a week for three hours so I took one class a day. I had more time to study and do my assignments while still having time to explore and engage in cultural activities. I also formed a study group for each class and we would go over notes/homework and study together. Coming back to SJSU, I did have to readjust my schedule to going to class twice a week for each class instead of once a week. I also had to go back to my old study routine to focus on turning in assignments more frequently.

CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? The skills that I learned/sharpened during my study abroad experience are: Intercultural communication and Thai language: I was exposed to diverse cultures and different languages that helped me enhance my ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds. I did make an effort to learn Thai during my exchange program by watching and listening to Thai dramas and songs. I also practiced a lot with Thai students. While I am still a beginner I still tried my best to speak Thai when ordering food, asking for directions and when trying to make small talk. Cultural awareness: At first I did not know a lot about Thailand. My cultural awareness increased immensely. It was a learning experience. I learned how to cook a few traditional Thai recipes in Chiang Mai, I participated while learning about important holidays and I visited famous landmarks such as a few sacred temples to learn more about the history of Thailand. I also had the opportunity to travel to other countries in Asia as well to experience the differences in cultures. Adaptability: After arriving I was very home sick and overwhelmed at the same time. It was all so new and different, but after some time I was able to adapt to the change, navigate in this unfamiliar environment, to their customs and lifestyle. Adapting to living in a new and different country helped me overcome challenges that I faced. Now I feel prepared to adapt to changes when going to different countries. Independence/Responsibility: Going abroad really made me more independent and take on more responsibility. At home in some situations when I had a problem I would rely on my family but I learned to work through my problems and create solutions independently. It helped build my confidence and made me take responsibility over my own decisions. Networking: While my classes had mostly Thai students there were a few other exchange students from different countries. I had the pleasure of meeting students from France, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Germany, Netherlands and many more. During our exchange program we were part of Chulalongkorn’s International Department (aka Int Dept) where they offered many events to get to know each other and it was amazing to learn more about their cultures and lifestyles. It was truly an awesome experience to have friends all around the world that I still continue to keep in touch with.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? My immersion has definitely changed the way I view the world. I now have different perspectives for new ways of living, thinking and solving problems. Also I had never realized before just how huge the world actually is. I have only been to Mexico and a few other states but prior to studying abroad I had never traveled anywhere else before. There are many cultures to learn about and I hope I get the chance to explore more.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? Studying abroad has prepared me for my future by providing me with new valuable skills, experiences and new perspectives. I now have the confidence to navigate in a new diverse world. I believe I can do more on my own and am more open to trying new things. I also found out that I can also be happy with my own company and not depend on others to have fun.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans? Start planning early. Attend an information session and don’t be afraid to ask all your questions. Be prepared by doing some research to know more about where you are going to be studying and living. Learn about the different options for accommodations and transportation. Learn more about the foreign currency and the different payment methods that are accepted. Pack accordingly depending on the climate. Be open minded and not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. Don’t be afraid to go exploring by yourself. If you want to do something do it because you might regret it if you don’t. Create a budget to help organize your expenses. Document everything by taking pictures, making vlogs or even journaling your experiences. If you have the chance to travel to other cities or countries, do it! Have fun but also give your body and mind time to rest. 🙂

Sadia Bates

MAJOR: Business Administration/Management
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), Winterthur, Switzerland
EMAIL: sadia.bates@sjsu.edu

BIO: Hey! My name is Sadia Bates. I am from San Jose and I am a third year business management student at SJSU. I recently got to fulfill a dream of mine; traveling abroad for school. I spent six months in Switzerland living my best life making friends, traveling, and of course going to school. I am looking forward to sharing my experiences and helping out fellow students who want to go abroad.

GOALS: I accomplished many goals having left from my time abroad. I was able to make many friends who I am still in contact with today. I experienced a different application of academic learning, I gained a wealth of professional knowledge from professors.

PERSONAL GROWTH: During my time abroad I pushed myself to make friends and learn from them. I was able to travel to different countries with many of the friends that I had made and that was the most exciting part of my time. The people I met had the biggest impact on me, growing my intercultural communication while having the time of my life.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad? In Switzerland I took only business courses and the format of the courses threw me for a loop. I was not used to of the gravity of the finals in addition to the lack of homework. At ZHAW, they do not evaluate your progress throughout the course. An adjustment compared to SJSU, which I now have more of an appreciation for our academics.

CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? Many of the courses I took abroad have developed my business skills. I participated in several projects that focused on different areas of business like marketing, negotiation, supply chain, ethics, and management. Not only have these projects developed my interest and skill level but also my experience. I now have the option to add these projects to my resume to enhance my opportunities in career goals. In addition I have gained experience in working in an international setting with people from many cultures, this experience will prove helpful in my future career exemplifying my understanding of intercultural communication.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? Arriving home there was an adjustment that I went through and still go through today. It wasn’t until I got home that I realized how different Swiss life is compared to life in the Bay Area. I notice people are always on their phones, there is not the same level of respect for others and their surroundings, and it’s not as safe. I take life lessons I learned from Switzerland to heart, moving effectively, being more forgiving and helpful to those in my community, among other things.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? Like I mentioned earlier, my time abroad has definitely enhanced my resume and my business toolbox. I gained many skills on a global level that I wouldn’t have otherwise. For instance, intercultural communication, adaptability, international experience, and self-awareness.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans? I would tell future Global Spartans to go for it. The application process and booking/accommodation hunting will be challenging but it will all be worth it in the end. I would also advise them not to set expectations and to stay open, they will have fun no matter what so I suggest they go in with a clear mind and go with the flow. Take advantage of opportunities that are laid before you even if it’s a decision made in a short time.

Landon Krivanec

MAJOR: Mechanical Engineering
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – RMIT University, Australia
EMAIL: landon.krivanec@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Landon Krivanec and I am a third-year mechanical engineering major and an engineering management minor. During my time at San Jose State University, I have become involved in many organizations of all types including but not limited to Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, BAJA Racing Club, and the Pi Tau Sigma Mechanical Engineering Honors Society. However, despite these quality experiences, I knew I would not be satisfied with my college experience if I did not study abroad. Being born in Sacramento, California, and then choosing to go to University in San Jose, California gave me a very limited view of what the world has to offer. While I do love California, I knew there was much more to experience in other parts of the world. I chose to study abroad in Australia because of many reasons, but if I had to limit it to two, I wanted to go to Australia because of the amazing surf and wild nature. Australia exceeded my expectations in both categories and gave me moments I will remember for the rest of my life. I studied abroad in hopes of an adventure and to grow as a person, and I was able to achieve both and more in only 5 months.

GOALS: My goals for studying abroad were to see as much of Australia’s nature as possible and to have friends from all over the world. Australia’s nature is breathtaking and unique to the rest of the world. Any spare time I had I was either on a trip or planning my next trip. Meeting people from different parts of the world was one of the most exciting parts of living abroad. Each person had a lot to share about their experiences and what life was like for them back home. Each person I met gave me a new opportunity to learn more about the world.

PERSONAL GROWTH: The biggest impact studying abroad had on me was the understanding that there are many different ways to live a successful life. In my opinion, the U.S. is very career-oriented in terms of what we do and focus on in our day-to-day lives. However, it was very refreshing to see that life in different parts of Australia is more community and interest-based. My Australian friends described the difference as: “Americans live to work, but we work to live.” This idea has stuck with me since I was in Australia and has become something I want to implement into my life. I enjoy what I am studying, and I spend the majority of my time creating opportunities for my career. However, I have a lot of other hobbies and interests that often get overlooked because of this. Since coming back from Australia, I have continued to live a more balanced life that fulfills my need to work but also invest more time into my community and my other interests.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad? I took a lighter coursework load while I was abroad to ensure I had time to enjoy living in Australia. To be able to do this, I increased my workload the semester before and after my study abroad semester. After my study abroad semester, I feel refreshed and have a new desire to learn that has made me look forward to class time.

CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? The most valuable skill I learned while studying abroad is how to collaborate and work with others from different backgrounds. I continued my mechanical engineering studies at RMIT University and the majority of my assignments were project oriented. Working with international students from Singapore, Germany, the Netherlands, and Australia all at the same time is where I truly learned the value of communication. This is a skill I continue to use in my academics at San Jose State University and will use in the industry. Another valuable experience that came from studying abroad is being exposed to different ways of doing everyday tasks. I saw this in both my schoolwork and daily life. One of the biggest differences between the U.S. and Australia is Australia’s use and integration of public transportation. A large majority of workers used the trams and trains for their daily commute into the city, saving time and money. This showed me the value of public transportation and inspired me to utilize our public transportation system in the Bay Area,

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? Living on another continent significantly changed my perspective on the world. Before I left for a semester abroad, I felt immersed in California. However, I was unaware of the ecosystem that is our world and how events in one area can create a chain reaction globally. Living outside of the United States gave me a better understanding of the different geopolitical environments in the world and how each has different effects.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? Studying abroad has exposed me to many different opportunities in life. These opportunities help me understand the different paths I can take and what the possible outcomes could be. This helps give my life a better sense of direction. Understanding the different opportunities in life helps me find what I want to do and how I can get there.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans? For a future Global Spartan, I would recommend studying abroad more than once! There are so many study abroad programs to choose from which makes it easy to find one that is right for you. You should take advantage of the chance to live in a different country as often as possible while studying.