Category Archives: Global Ambassadors

Rikki Erielle Navos

NAME: Rikki Erielle Navos
MAJOR: Economics
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Sungkyungkwan University (SKKU)
EMAIL: rikkierielle@gmail.com

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.

Studying abroad has been a constant goal of mine ever since I started college. I constantly glance at SJSU’s student exchange website to look at my options. One day, I saw the new program SJSU created with a university in South Korea, one of the countries I’ve dreamt of going to. I thought this was the opportunity I was looking for! I decided to apply right after!

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Studying abroad allowed me to interact with people all around the world. It gave me connections to countries I’ve never even thought about visiting before! Studying in a foreign country has definitely allowed me to have better cultural awareness and improved my communication abilities with people from other backgrounds.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My main goal for studying abroad was to see more of myself by seeing more of the world. South Korea was a place outside of the bubble I’ve lived in, and being able to study in such an unfamiliar country allowed me to experience phenomenons I would never have been able to as a student in my home country. I was exposed to another country’s way of studying and its youth’s culture. It introduced me to a lot of hobbies I never knew I would enjoy and gave me memories to carry for a lifetime.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact my study abroad experience had on my was the ability to live independently in a foreign country. This is important to me because it brings a different type of growth one would get by living independently in our own country.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

My academic experience abroad was very different from our home university. I took three classes: Money and Banking, Economics in Global Environment, and Beginning Korean. It was very interesting seeing the process of how Korean students study and the different structures that the courses had compared to what I’ve experienced before. With these courses, I was able to be more comfortable doing group work and interacting more with other students

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

My immersion made me realize how big the world truly was. Since I’ve only been to the Philippines and the U.S. prior to Study abroad, I’ve only experienced very limited cultures.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Study abroad prepared me for my future by enabling me to be independent and allow me to have the ability to be happy  with my own company. I am much more comfortable to live by myself now.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

I would tell a future Global Spartan to not limit themselves even though they’re in a foreign country. Put yourself out there. Make many connections and see the most out of the country you’re going to. You’ll remember it for the rest of your life.

Michelle Duong

NAME: Michelle Duong
MAJOR: Computer Science
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Sungkyunkwan University – South Korea
EMAIL: michelleduong@yahoo.com

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad. 

A bit about myself is that I have always been interested in languages and different cultures due to my multicultural family. I chose to study abroad because I have always been interested in the program, and my current college plans lined up to give me the perfect opportunity to apply.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience? 

Academically, studying abroad gave me a glimpse of how Korean universities operate, and how students learn. Apart from academics, I met people from all around the world, enhancing my knowledge of different cultures and how their mindsets may differ. Traveling abroad taught me how to be a safe traveler, as well as develop the skills to be more independent and adaptive.

 GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad? 

My goals were simple, to learn to be more independent and to put myself out there. I would say that I was pretty successful as I met many people, and learned to spend my time alone more productively. Being a commuter, I miss out on a lot of college life experiences, and I felt that study abroad brought that part to me.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you? 

The biggest impact study abroad had on me was learning to be independent and be okay with being independent. Everyone has their own schedules and priorities, and sometimes, being alone and learning to enjoy that time alone is also a skill. 

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

In Korea, I took a Basic Korean, Comparative Politics, Data Science, and Media UX Design. All of these classes were geared to allow me to meet my graduation requirements, but I think that there is another charm about taking all of these classes abroad. The Korean class was much more immersive and useful as it allowed us to use what we’ve learned immediately in real conversation. The politics class brought together people from all over the world, allowing us to share our opinions on different events that shaped our present day. Data science abroad consisted of many labs, which made learning practical. Media UX Design is a class that isn’t commonly offered in American universities.

 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

I have learned that people from different parts of the world have different ideas in terms of what they consider success. One may feel fulfillment in more family-oriented aspects, whereas others dream of a stable income. As always, I think the key to interacting with others, is keeping an open mind and trying to understand why they may think a way about certain topics.

 FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? 

Studying abroad has prepared me in the way that I know there will be times when I feel lonely, displaced, or behind my peers. However, everyone goes about their life at a different pace, and I should focus on making what I want to do a priority. It has also taught me the skills of living on my own, dealing with renting things out, finances, and other things about adulting.

 TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan? 

To just do it. With studying abroad comes many challenges and worries, but if you just take it one step at a time, the experience will all be worth it in the end.

MiguelAngel Gonzalez

NAME: MiguelAngel Gonzalez
MAJOR: Continuing Education
PROGRAM: Scotland – SJSU Exchange – Edinburgh Napier University
EMAIL: miguelangel.gonzalez@sjsu.edu

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.

I chose to study abroad because I had several motivations driving my decision. Firstly, from an academic perspective, I was eager to learn about engineering from a different perspective, and Scotland’s engineering programs offered a unique opportunity to do so. I believed that gaining insights from a different educational system would broaden my knowledge and provide me with a fresh outlook.

Secondly, I have always been fascinated by different cultures, and studying abroad presented the perfect chance to immerse myself in a foreign country’s way of life. Scotland’s rich history, vibrant traditions, and welcoming people piqued my curiosity. I wanted to experience daily life, customs, and traditions firsthand and develop a deeper understanding of a culture different from mine.

Lastly, I saw studying abroad as a remarkable chance for personal growth. Living independently in a foreign country would push me out of my comfort zone and foster adaptability, self-reliance, and problem-solving skills. I knew navigating a new environment, making new friends, and overcoming challenges would contribute to my personal development, boosting my self-confidence and resilience.

In summary, my decision to study abroad was driven by a combination of academic curiosity, cultural exploration, and personal growth aspirations. I believe that this experience will not only enhance my academic knowledge but also broaden my horizons and shapte me into a more well-rounded individual.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?

During my study abroad experience, I had the opportunity to learn and sharpen a wide range of skills that have greatly contributed to my personal and professional growth. In a practical engineering course, I acquired hands-on skills such as sheet-metal bending, lathe usage, and metal filing. These technical skills not only expanded my understanding of engineering principles but also equipped me with practical abilities essential in real-world engineering scenarios.

Furthermore, I took a product management course that provided me with valuable business and management skills. This course taught me how to effectively market a product, analyze its potential profitability, and collaborate with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds to create comprehensive reports. These experiences have honed my ability to apply business strategies, think critically, and work seamlessly in multicultural teams.

Apart from the technical and business skills, my study abroad experience has also helped me develop essential personal and intercultural competencies. Navigating a city on foots and being self sufficient in a foreign environment has taught me independence, adaptability, and problem-solving. Additionally, the exposure to different cultures and the diverse community I interacted with have enhanced my open-mindedness, cross-cultural communication skills, and ability to collaborate effectively in multicultural settings.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Personal, academic, and professional aspirations drove my goals for studying abroad. On a personal level, I was motivated to live independently in a foreign country, embracing the opportunity to challenge myself and expand my horizons. By navigating a city on foot, being self-sufficient, and immersing myself in a different culture, I aimed to develop a sense of independence and open-mindedness toward diverse perspectives.

Academically, I had specific goals centered around my engineering studies. I wanted to learn about engineering from Scotland’s perspective, as its renowned engineering programs offered unique insights and approaches. By studying in a different educational system, I sought to broaden my knowledge, gain exposure to innovative techniques, and develop a comprehensive understanding of the subject. This academic enrichment would give me a fresh outlook and enhance my engineering and problem-solving skills.

Professionally, my study abroad experience was instrumental in my career development. I recognized the importance of acquiring global competencies in today’s interconnected world. By living in a foreign country, collaborating with individuals from different cultures, and adapting to new environments, I aimed to sharpen my cross-cultural communication skills, expand my professional network, and cultivate a global mindset. These skills would be invaluable in my future professional endeavors, enabling me to navigate diverse work environments and contribute to multinational teams effectively.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact my study abroad experience had on me was profound personal growth and the development of a sense of independence. I broadened my perspectives by living independently in a foreign country, navigating a city on foot, and immersing myself in a different culture. I discovered the joy of being comfortable in my own company.

Throughout my study abroad journey, I learned to embrace solitude and enjoy my company. It was a transformative experience that allowed me to reflect, introspect, and appreciate the value of self-reliance. By stepping out of my comfort zone and immersing myself in unfamiliar surroundings, I became more confident in navigating challenges and exploring new experiences independently.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?

My academic experience abroad was enriching and provided valuable opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills in various domains. The practical engineering course gave me hands-on training. I learned essential techniques such as sheet-metal bending, lathe usage, and metal filing, which equipped me with practical engineering skills crucial in real-world applications. The course deepened my understanding of engineering principles and allowed me to gain valuable experience in working with different materials and shaping them into desired forms.

In addition to the engineering course, I also had the opportunity to study product management, which was a valuable addition to my academic journey. This course focused on teaching me important aspects of marketing a product, analyzing its potential profitability, and collaborating with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds to create comprehensive reports. The knowledge and skills I gained in product management expanded my understanding of the business side of engineering. We gave me a more well-rounded perspective on product development and market viability.

Beyond the specific courses, my academic experience abroad was shaped by the overall environment and cultural immersion. Being in a foreign country allowed me to develop a global mindset and broaden my perspectives. I learned to be self-sufficient and navigate a city on foot, which fostered independence and adaptability. Moreover, being open-minded to other cultures became integral to my academic journey as I interacted with classmates and faculty members from diverse backgrounds. This exposure to different cultures and ways of thinking enhanced my ability to collaborate effectively and appreciate the richness of diversity in an academic setting.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Through various activities such as guided tours, engagement in school clubs, and support of local businesses, I had the opportunity to deeply engage with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s culture, history, and social dynamics.

One significant way my immersion impacted my perspectives on the world was by fostering a greater appreciation for cultural diversity and intercultural understanding. By actively participating in guided tours, I witnessed firsthand the local community’s unique traditions, landmarks, and customs. This exposure allowed me to develop a more nuanced understanding and respect for different cultural practices and perspectives. It helped me realize that there are countless ways to approach life and that diversity should be celebrated rather than feared.

Engaging in school clubs allowed me to interact with individuals from different backgrounds and cultures. Collaborating on projects, sharing experiences, and exchanging ideas allowed me to challenge my assumptions and broaden my worldview. It taught me the importance of inclusivity, empathy, and effective communication in fostering meaningful connections and promoting mutual understanding.

Supporting local businesses also played a crucial role in shaping my perspectives on the world. By actively seeking out local establishments and supporting their endeavors, I gained a deeper appreciation for the economic, social, and cultural impact of small businesses within a community. I witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication of local entrepreneurs, and this experience highlighted the significance of community support and the value of sustainable, locally-focused economies.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad has significantly prepared me for my future in numerous ways. The combination of personal growth, academic enrichment, and cultural immersion has equipped me with diverse skills and perspectives that will positively impact my path.

First and foremost, the experience of living independently in a foreign country has fostered my self-sufficiency and adaptability. Navigating a city on foot, embracing solitude, and being comfortable in my company have instilled a sense of resilience and confidence. These qualities will undoubtedly serve me well in future endeavors, as I have learned to navigate unfamiliar situations, adapt to new environments, and tackle challenges proactively.

Academically, my study abroad experience has expanded my knowledge and skills in engineering and product management. The practical engineering course provided me with hands-on training in essential techniques, while the product management course deepened my understanding of marketing, profitability analysis, and cross-cultural collaboration. These academic achievements have enhanced my technical expertise, critical thinking abilities, and business acumen, which are highly valuable in a professional setting.

Moreover, my immersion in a foreign culture has broadened my perspectives and intercultural competence. By actively engaging in guided tours, participating in school clubs, and supporting local businesses, I have gained a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and a greater understanding of global dynamics. These experiences have honed my communication skills, nurtured empathy, and strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

The combination of these experiences and skills acquired during my study abroad journey has prepared me for the future in multiple ways. Whether pursuing further academic studies, embarking on a professional career, or engaging in cross-cultural collaborations, I am equipped with the tools to thrive in a globalized and interconnected world. The self-sufficiency, adaptability, academic knowledge, and cultural awareness gained through studying abroad have shaped me into a more well-rounded individual, ready to tackle challenges and make meaningful contributions in any endeavor I pursue.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

As a previous Global Spartan and prospective Global Ambassador, I am honored to share my advice for future students considering studying abroad. Here are some key insights and recommendations:

1. Be open-minded and embrace the unknown. Studying abroad is an opportunity for personal growth and cultural exploration. Step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Embracing new experiences will enrich your journey and broaden your perspectives.

2. Before embarking on your study abroad adventure, take the time to plan and prepare. Research the destination, familiarize yourself with local customs, and learn some basic phrases of the local language. This groundwork will help you navigate the initial challenges and move smoothly to your new environment.

3. One of the most rewarding aspects of studying abroad is interacting with the local community. Engage in cultural activities, attend local events, and seek opportunities to volunteer or intern with local organizations. This will deepen your cultural understanding and create lasting connections and memorable experiences.

4. Embrace cultural differences and respect local customs and traditions. Approach each interaction with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Understanding and appreciating different perspectives will enrich your study abroad experience and foster meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds.

5. Take advantage of your academic opportunities during your study abroad program. Immerse yourself in the coursework, engage with professors and classmates, and participate actively in class discussions. Additionally, be proactive in pursuing personal growth. Reflect on your experiences, challenge your assumptions, and continuously seek new ways to expand your knowledge and skills.

6. Keep a journal or blog to document your study abroad journey. Capture your thoughts, experiences, and reflections throughout the program. This will serve as a cherished memento of your time abroad and help you process and integrate the lessons learned during your experience.

7. As a Global Ambassador, you can represent your university and share your study abroad experience with others. Embrace this role with enthusiasm and authenticity. Be a source of support and guidance for future Global Spartans, sharing your insights, answering their questions, and inspiring them to embark on their transformative study abroad journeys.

 

Lisette Vasquez Perez

NAME: Lisette Vasquez Perez
MAJOR: Forensic Science – Biology
PROGRAM: Scotland – FLP – Comparative Forensic Science US & UK
EMAIL: lisette.vasquezperez@sjsu.edu

 

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.

There aren’t many opportunities that provide hands on experience for forensic science students so a faculty led program that centers forensic science was an opportunity that I couldn’t miss. Additionally, the UK is ahead of the U.S. in terms of the development of forensic science which allows me to learn about current standards and policies that influence how other countries choose to apply forensic science in their countries. I have never been to the UK which added to the intrigue of experiencing a culture that is unfamiliar to me by living and learning in that space.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

During my time there I was able to interact with other forensic science students that I had never met before which allowed me to network with students I could meet with throughout future semesters. Additionally, I was able to talk with the professors, lawyers, and doctors who are involved in forensic science in Scotland to better understand the different career paths that are available after I finish my bachelors degree. Since we had labs in addition to lecture I was able to get a preview into the different forensic techniques implemented when analyzing the various types of evidence taught in upper division courses.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

A personal goal that I had was to meet and connect with one new person during the duration of the program, which I was able to accomplish on my first day by stepping out of my comfort zone. Something that aided this was that we were all nervous about being in a new country and having no family to guide us through out time there. An academic goal that I had was to identify if the graduate program offered at the Univerity of Strathclyde was something I wanted to apply to and based on my experience it has become one of the schools I will definitely be applying to when the time comes. A professional goal that I had was to have a basic understanding of the standards for forensic scientist in the field or lab which is something that I need regardless of what career I end up in. I was able to accomplish this by participating in the labs the professors had planned for us.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact that the program had on me was making me more comfortable reaching out and connecting with people that I find myself in the same space with. For example I noticed that I initiated conversations with other students in my new courses as well as reaching out to the students that were a part of the same summer program. Before, I was too intimated to talk to students due to not having enough confidence to do so, but after this program I have noticed a difference. Similarly I am more confident in my choice of major and my place within the school as a result of my experience during the program because it made me more aware of the noticeable passion that is displayed by all the professionals I was able to interact with.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?

The course that I took was FS 160 which is called Special Topics in Forensic Science gave me the opportunity to introduce and connect with my major advisor which made me more comfortable in reaching out whenever I have concerns academically. In order to stay successful abroad we were required to take copious notes as well as write a daily reflection in our notebooks which allowed for tracking any progress I made within any of my goals. Similarly the time spent in labs gave me further motivation to continue in my undergraduate research with Dr.Muller.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

I didn’t know much of Scottish culture or history but as a result of this course I was able to learn about both in addition to how their judicial system works. From this there was also a lecture that focused on the difference in the practice and application of forensic science globally which opened my eyes to the various standards currently. More importantly the professors discussed how collaboration between universities not only helps students but it also helps further the information available to research groups so that progress is done more effectively.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

This program demonstrated how despite the professors working at the same university they all have different backgrounds which reflected how vast forensic science is. Because of this, my want to go to graduate school has solidified however I’m still not certain about what specifically I want to study. Also, I was able to have experience being a student abroad and practicing my navigation and budgeting skills that will be useful if I were to be accepted in a graduate school that is far from home.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

I would advise to not be afraid to ask questions and to connect with people. I would not have had the experience that I did if I didn’t open myself up to everyone I interacted with. Additionally it was comforting to know that my fellow classmates were struggling with the same problems as me during our time abroad. These tips are applicable to being a student anywhere even if it isn’t abroad since you aren’t losing anything from trying.

Breanna Dulay

Breanna Dulay

NAME: Breanna Dulay
MAJOR: Art/Digital Media Art
PROGRAM: Germany – SJSU Exchange – Hochschule für Gestaltung Schwäbisch Gmünd (Schwäbisch Gmünd School of Design)
EMAIL: breanna.dulay@sjsu.edu

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.

My name is Breanna Dulay, I’m currently a senior Digital Media art student and I had my study abroad experience during Fall of 2022. I completed my exchange program at Hochschule für Gestaltung(HfG) Schwäbisch Gmünd in Baden-Württemberg, Germany for one semester. I took courses specializing in interaction design, but also got a chance to take courses from other sectors of design, from product to communication.

The first time I considered studying abroad, my interest was piqued by one of the many study abroad program booths at the welcome week for first year students. The students at the booth shared their experiences, how it enabled them to grow, what they learned, and about all the opportunities that their exchange program offered. This was already enough to reel me in, but as I continued my self research coming into my later years at SJSU, I developed more specified and concentrated reasons for wanting to study abroad. Although I enjoyed the courses I took at SJSU, the theoretical nature of my courses left me feeling stagnant and wanting to seek more practical, real world experience, a characteristic I found in the courses at HfG.

For me, the study abroad experience was a challenge of personal growth in which I could put myself in new situations and an new environment that would enable me to learn. Another opportunity that an exchange program offered would be the chance to meet and get to know people with vastly different experiences from across the world and learn from them, share and compare our world views, and network with them.

Ultimately I applied three times for this program, and got in all three times, however unfortunately the first time was canceled due to covid when I applied in 2020. The second time I had to cancel due to personal reasons, but fortunately the third time, my circumstances had aligned and I was able to go through my exchange semester last Fall and I am forever grateful that my persistence paid off so that I was able to go on this journey.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

My semester abroad enabled the develpoment of both technical skills and soft skills, though I found it especially helped me sharpen my soft skills. For instance, I was able to substantially develop my skills in interpersonal communication due to the nature of my courses. The structure of these courses involved group work for the entire semester. This definitely helped with developing necessary communication skills as I was collaborating with different groups for each class multiple times a week. Just a few skills I learned included how to negotiate effectively, present ideas concisely, resolve conflict, and adapt accordingly. Fortunately, my program allowed many opportunities to build connections which enabled me to connect with many different people from across the world and I found this especially within the international group of exchange students that formed at the start of the semester. This also helped with developing my intercultural communication skills as there were challenges such as language barriers and cultural differences/norms in which the solutions were different for each person. Through discussion and by working with each other, we learned the nuances of each other’s cultures and built our understanding of each other which was also beneficial to how we communicated thereafter in our respective project groups.

Another soft skill I sharpened, was the ability to network effectively and with confidence, and I learned this largely by example. One groupmate of mine had a very effective way to network, to which she had gained three different internship offers just through conversation. I was in awe of this, especially when she told me that she had little relevant experience for any of these internships. When I asked about how she was able to do so, I was able to compare our manner of networking and note down what I should apply. The most important piece of advice she shared was to utilize the ability to reframe your experiences in a way that highlights one’s potential as a promising employee. Though effective networking is something I am constantly learning how to improve, I was able to utilize this specific advice to improve my networking skills, which ultimately did help me to get a referral towards the end of my program.

Alongside my soft skills, I was able to substantially develop my technical skills with the courses I took. HfG is a school that prioritizes practice over theory and prior to my semester abroad, my courses at SJSU had been mostly theoretical. Although it took me time to adjust to the different learning and teaching style, I developed and learned so much about current necessary skills/trends relevant to my academic and professional path. I was new to many of the programs and methods used in the courses, and there were more than a couple times where I had to learn a program and method on the go and apply it immediately to a project. Despite the stress of doing so, it ultimately boosted my ability to design and prototype projects effectively, to the point where I felt I had learned more about industry standards and techniques during this one semester than I had before.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

As cookie cutter as it sounds, a big personal reason I wanted to study abroad was to be able to work on my self development. I knew that in an unfamiliar environment by myself, I would not just learn about the culture, but I would also get to learn about myself without the outside influences I experience in my daily life. I could test myself in situations I had never been in before, such as living alone, learning where to look for help in a new environment, or how to find solutions for issues I have never had.

The major driver behind my reason for studying abroad, was the chance to take courses that were more specialized in a specific subset of design and courses that were taught in a way that would be close to gaining real world experience in an academic setting. When I was still researching universities to study abroad at, HfG was always at the top of my list due to the nature of the courses offered that aligned with my academic desire to experience more practical and design focused courses. My experience in these courses ultimately helped me hone my concentration for future plans of my academic and professional journey.

As for professional goals, I set my goals prior to focus on networking, learning from a mentor, and to try for an internship or chance at a referral. Specifically, I wanted to learn how to reframe my view as an applicant and how to improve my portfolio for specific careers. Though I ended up not going through with my goal for an internship, I was able to get a referral from one of my mentors which has helped my professional goals.

6. PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

 

What I felt had the biggest impact on me was the opportunity to connect with many different people across the world. During my time abroad, I was able to have discussions with many different people which exposed me to a wide variety of opinions, backgrounds, and cultures. This gave me the chance to learn and reflect on opinions and ideas I had never really spent the time myself to consider or even challenge before. I feel very fortunate to have met the people I did as every conversation we had or time we spent together gave me the chance to learn a little bit more and challenge my world views.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?

I am a Digital Media Art student at SJSU, but at the Hfg I took courses that specialized mostly in interaction design. list courses briefly and explain here. Mention strategies for academic excess, but note that it varies among colleges/countries. I will admit that it wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be to return after my exchange semester due to a couple factors. One being the difference in semester end/semester start dates(sjsu started before the end of hfg’s semester), living situation(some complexes will only allow fixed cancellation dates), and work schedules. Ultimately I do not regret staying longer as it is also something I anticipated and was ready for in the event that I had to postpone my original graduation date.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Again I feel very forunate that my program offered a welcome week and formed an international student group because this allowed all exchange students to form a little community that became very close knit over the semester. There were a lot of discussions that took place that deepened my perspectives on the world because I and everyone else was eager to share their experiences and opinions with each other. Overall, there was a very welcoming and mutual want to understand and learn about the other. It helped me push past “first meeting anxiety” which helped me become more open to other people, especially if they are new because I’d like to extend that kindness onto others. As a commuter to SJSU who is also working and attending full time, I don’t get to participate that in community activities outside of my personal life or my workplace, so being in a community of people who are similar in terms of being in the same program/field, yet varied, was definetely a welcome experience.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad has been an experience that has helped me grow immensely, personally, professionally, and academically. Being put into new situations and experiences in a foreign country has helped me mature, sharpen my skills, and learn in and out of the classroom. Besides sharpening my soft and technical skills, my experience abroad has prepared me by steering me in a direction in which I can focus on and has helped my personal path become clearer than before. One of the most important parts of my experience was getting the opportunity to participate in specialized and practical courses. My experience in these courses has developed my interest in the specific sector of interaction design and specific careers in that field, which has helped shaped important decision for my future, career wise and academic wise, as I search for internships and look into secondary programs after I graduate from SJSU.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

To a future study abroad student, I can advise the following, starting with the importance of a backup plan. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a step by step back up plan, but it is likely that not everything will go 100% according to plan, and having a backup plan can still establish some control over your plans. I feel it is also important to keep in mind that even if things don’t go according to plan, it is also fine to understand and accept it as a learning experience.

A general piece of advice regarding travel is that if you want to go travel something or do a specific activity, to just do it as soon as you can. Time passes by very fast and it can be common to postpone it and plan a trip/activity for another time. I’ve done this myself and by the end of my program experience, I realized there is a high chance that you will not actually go do it later on, in my case due to a lack of time and proper scheduling.

The last piece of advice I would give which I would argue is also the most important, is to read everything very carefully and even if you feel it is annoying to do so, it is better safe than sorry to check more than once. This especially applies to things such as rental agreements, because your landlord might say one thing while the website or contract says another, and if you don’t adhere to those rules, complications can definitely arise.

Katherine Huang

NAME: Katherine Huang
MAJOR: Business Administration/Marketing
PROGRAM: ISEP Tokyo National University
EMAIL: katherineh885@gmail.com

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.

I’m Katherine Huang, and I studied in Japan in Fall 2022 as a third year business marketing major. I came to SJSU the fall of 2020 when life was heavily impacted by Covid-19. My first two years of university were compromised due to the pandemic. Going into my third year, I was set on taking opportunities whenever I could. After talking to a few friends about their amazing experiences abroad, I only grew more excited. Eventually, I chose Japan, because I have always been intrigued by their culture, such as their food, car scene, cultural festivals, public transportation, nature/national parks, etc. I wanted to put myself in an unfamiliar environment to see what I’m capable of and to challenge myself to grow. Spoiler alert: I grew. A lot. And now I have precious memories of my time abroad. It was a lot of work, but I don’t regret any of it. I would do it all again in a heartbeat! It was truly one of the best choices I ever made for myself.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

I was placed in an environment that pushed me to grow my soft skills. The saying is true: You get out what you put in. Once you’re abroad, you have to put yourself out there and take risks. I was nervous about making friends and building a community with people so different from me. I didn’t want to miss out though, so I took opportunities to talk to people in the dorms, in class, around campus, and even when I ran into them at the train station. I was able to meet people from all walks of life—people from other cities, states, and countries. We still keep in touch, and there’s a mutual understanding that we’ll be there to help each other if we’re ever in the same area.

Additionally, I still keep in touch with a professor! We bonded over a shared passion for Japanese sports cars, and he introduced me to another student who showed me around the local car scene. Being able to talk and network is a skill that I was able to hone, and it is arguably one of the most important skills for marketing majors. Now, I feel much more comfortable and confident initiating conversations.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

Personally, I wanted to branch out and meet new people. I was looking forward to a different pace of life and connecting with a new community. I didn’t just learn about Japanese culture, I met people who taught me all about their cultures and countries. It was a beautiful bonding experience meeting people and celebrating our differences just as much as similarities.

Academic-wise, I was excited about being on a completely new campus with new faces, new professors, new faculty, and courses that aren’t available at SJSU. For example, I was able to learn about Japan’s culture and society. Not only was this course fun, but it was also very helpful. I plan on working in Japan in the future, so learning about the culture was insightful.

Regarding professional goals, I was interested in observing Japan’s work culture first hand. There is no doubt that the work ethic in that country is well known, and I wanted to experience it and become inspired. Before I went abroad, I felt pretty burnt out in a lot of areas, including with my career. My goal was to come back to the states with renewed vigor, ready to give 100% to my career and education.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

I truly feel like I came back wiser and braver. Being abroad pushed me to be fearless and spontaneous. I’m graduating next spring, and the reality of adulthood is starting to set in. The unknown is daunting, but I feel brave enough to face it. Japan started off as completely new, unexplored territory for me, but within four months, I was calling it home. My experience in Japan has taught me that I’m capable of much more than I had ever imagined.

I also have a newfound gratitude for things in the US that weren’t in Japan. For example, drive thrus! And In-n-Out. Costco $1.50 hot dogs. And ranch!!! I missed ranch so much. It’s my favorite sauce. In all seriousness though, I really do appreciate everything I have now.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?

I took four courses: Leadership, Creativity, and Organizational Renewal; Japanese Society, Social Media and Business; Business Communication and Productivity. First and foremost, I made friends in class. Having friends can help hold you accountable and incentivize you to come to class. Moreover, being familiar with classmates can make group projects much more smooth and enjoyable.

I also made sure I was recognizable to professors. I participated, asked questions, talked to them after class, and built a relationship with them. Establishing a connection with professors is imperative to academic success. It’s easier to ask for help when you’re familiar with your teachers.

Now that I’m back at SJSU, I still strive to be present and engaged in class for my peers and professors.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Studying abroad helped me discover a happiness I’ve never known before. Despite this experience being for me, I didn’t feel like the main character—and that’s a good thing! It felt so freeing to decentralize myself; it made my worries feel much smaller. I was more intent on learning about other people and other cultures; learning more about myself was just a byproduct of the process. Every individual I met is so unique and has a story that has impacted me. I am a mosaic of everyone I met; I carry little pieces of them with me.

Since coming back, I still keep that open mind and eagerness to learn about others. It’s amazing how much you can absorb when you listen more and talk less. Going abroad has humbled me and reminded me that I’m a student of life above all else. The vast world has so much to offer, and there’s always opportunities to learn and grow if you’re willing to look and listen.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

I’ve always been in a rush to grow up and reach the next milestone, but being abroad has taught me to really slow down and smell the roses. Not having a car in Japan meant I had to walk most places, and although I didn’t like it at first, I grew to enjoy it. Walking allowed me to take the whole world in, soak up the sun’s warmth, and appreciate the journey.

I also grew more conscious about financials, and financial literacy is such an important skill for adulthood. Being abroad made me aware about currency exchange rates, my spending/saving habits, how much I’m willing to pay for experiences versus material items, and more.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

Take a leap of faith. If you are on the fence, just go for it. You have a community of people who will support you and welcome you with open arms, whether that’s Study Abroad Alumni, SJSU faculty, host university faculty, host families, the local community, other students, etc. You are never alone in your endeavors, and you have so many resources available to you! Put in the work, and your efforts will come to fruition. I hope you study abroad; it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

Michal Smoszna

NAME: Michal Zygmunt Smoszna
MAJOR: Aerospace Engineer
PROGRAM: England, SJSU Exchange – University of Birmingham
EMAIL: michal.smoszna@sjsu.edu

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.(REQUIRED)

I always wanted to discover the world, and learn how it is to live and slightly settle down in a completely new environment. Foreign universities always interested me and kept me keen to learn about how other countries teach their students. I was really wanted to experience a new culture, a new government, new architecture, new economy, new everytbing and I am so ever grateful that I had this opportunity. Discovering the differences between our two countries was one thing I was very excited for and I got just that. Not to mention I wanted to meet new people and now I have a group of close friends that I’ll definitely be visiting.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?
Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

For starters, the US and the UK have two completely different and intriguing ways of delivering education. In the US you learn a little then have a midterm or two tests that are a bit short as each overs around 1/3 of the material. There is also homework which is assigned and guides students through the course. In the UK, exams are given only once per class and homework is entirely dependant on the student. The individuality and the mass material needed to know at the time of the exam was one of my weak points as I was used to a 10-20% final exam worth as in the US not 80% as in the UK. I most definitely sharpened by skills about studying on my own and reviewing throughout the year, as well as my abilities to study for an exam. Never before have I stressed so much, yet comprehended and tried so hard for the pass. It was a very challenging transition, but one that has given me insight and change for my future university years. To summarise: I will be spending a lot more time in the library from now on actually trying to comprehend what I’m learning instead of just memorising for the short term pass.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?
Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

I set out in my goals list to discover new cultures and meet new friends as well as explore and enrich my academic practices. I think as previously stated academically I learnt a lot for years to come. Personally, I met people from a plethora of cultures and backgrounds and have the pleasure to call those people my friends. I also connected with other students studying abroad from Hong Kong, Australia, Germany to name a few. I think we created a network of peers which will keep in touch and support each other no matter the distance for years to come.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact was the self dependency that I created and lived by. I was very far from home and in a completely different time zone so calls were far and few. Making friends also wasn’t instant, it took me a couple of months so I was very lonely, but that thought me that’s it’s okay to be alone, something that I never before really experienced and knew how to deal with. I also learnt how to care for myself, cook for myself, heal myself (when I got sick), how to make new friends, and how to discipline myself with my study.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?
Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?

I took I think the maximum load of classes that I could take to still graduate from SJSU in 4 years and that was Linear Algrebra and Linear Programming, Introduction to mid 19th century French art, and Inorganic Chemistry my first semester and Materials Engineering, Circuit Analysis (Digital and Analogue), Electromagnetism – Temperature and Matter – Circuits, and Observational Astronomy my second semester. They were difficult classes all of them to be honest, especially before I figured out how to convert to studying for UK classes and exams. I tried my absolute best to follow the material we had in lecture throughout the year and this definitely helped ensure my academic success. I also began studying relentlessly for exams 3 weeks before exams everyday for hours upon hours. This sort of longer cramming helped me refresh and retain the knowledge of the classes which helped me succeed. As I mentioned earlier, now in SJSU I will spend much more time in the library before, between, and after my lectures and actively catch up and try to comprehend material as I learn it, instead of procrastinating and cramming before the tests.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

I from starters have had a very wide perspective on our world, I frequent to Poland as I am Polish and all my non-immediate family reside there. The UK, however, added a great deal to this perspective. The US is a completely different world compared to Poland, as the US is a capatilist country from the getgo whilst Poland is a post iron curtain socialist country which employs some capitalism. The UK, however is in between Central Europe and the US. The UK speaks English, yet is retains a very dense population in cities and has a very western economy. There’s many things i could say which greatly intrigued me, one worthy to mention is the lack of copyright laws, so companies such as ALDI create delicious and cheap dupes of known brands which I took. The difference in how we speak and what we understand in British English and American English and Australian English were also very interesting and entertaining for me to learn. I most definitely have gotten a much larger world view and definitely an appreciation for American healthcare.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

I have learnt how to care for myself and how to live on my own and am now confident of my capabilities in being self-dependant. I also know how to manage my time a lot more efficiently than before. I think in further school and when I eventually move away from home this will be very helpful and helping me adapt to whatever environment I mind myself in.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

I’d say to most definitely make a plan on how to study and research in what way a certain country/university delivers knowledge. To me this was a very big thing to overcome and I wish I had been more prepared for it once I went over. Also, I’d like to reinforce that’s it’s okay to feel homesick and lonely/alone in the beginning. It’s a key part of learning how to adapt and  live with yourself. You kind of build yourself up anew doing this and going through this process of in a way starting over, which I think is only beneficial and gives experiences that will help in the long run.

Jessica Tran

NAME: Jessica Tran
MAJOR: ‘Business Admin/International Business
PROGRAM: South Korea, SJSU Exchange – Kyungpook National University
EMAIL: jessica.t.tran01@sjsu.edu

 

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?
Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

My goals when studying abroad was learning and experiencing how life is like in another country, as it would be much different than the US. I also wanted to become independent and learn how to care for myself.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

I think the biggest impact that my study abroad experience had on me was the independence of taking care of myself. As I was born and raised here, I never was away from my family, and I would have never been able to experience it until most likely after graduation. Going to South Korea all by myself, with no friends or family members with me, was the best thing I decided to do. Being able to navigate my way around a country I have never been to, and the fact that I hardly know the language I find is amazing. Also I believe that since I was there alone, I was able to find myself and take the time to care for myself, which I do not always have the time and opportunity for myself here.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?
Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?
I took 2 business courses and 2 GE courses, in order to pass you need to do assignments and study for exams. However, you must not be absent over 8 classes or you will fail the course.
CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?
Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

Since every country is different, figuring out how to have the ability to adapt and adjust accordingly would be a great skill to learn. Also since most other countries do not have their main language as English, learning and going through the obstacles of interacting and communicating with the people there in their native language. Also since I knew no one and had no friends, I had to get out of my shell and befriend natives and other foreigners. I never really made friends in my classes in SJSU, but after coming back, I have seen myself interacting and networking with more people. It also made me realize how lucky we are to be attending a university in the US. Foreign students have to take English exams to see if they qualify to study abroad in the US. While for us, we can apply much easier as the schools abroad offer courses taught in English and there is no need to be proficient at their main language.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?
Reflect on the opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and/or at your host university. How did your immersion in a new culture change your perspective on the world or your future?
I think it really gets you out there, since I basically threw myself into a country where English is not the main language. It allows you to learn how adapt and take care of yourself.
FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad allowed me to become more prepared for my future. I am now confident in being able to live by myself, putting myself out there and ask people for help, my communicating and networking skills have strengthened, and most importantly taking care of my wellbeing. Also learned how to budgeting my spendings, which I would say was the hardest one handle while abroad.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

Advice I would give a future Global Spartan is to not bring as much luggage. It was mentioned multiple times in the orientation and the meeting, but when packing I felt like I needed to bring a lot of things. In reality, I brought many things I did not need. Knowing a little of the language before hand would come in handy, although a good amount of people would probably be able to help you even if you do not know the language. Also know which apps to download before arriving to your study abroad location, as you will be using those apps on a daily basis.

Courtney Wan

NAME: Courtney Wan
MAJOR: Chemistry
PROGRAM: South Korea, SJSU Exchange – Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)
EMAIL: courtney.wan@sjsu.edu

 

BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.

My name is Courtney Wan. My pronouns are she/her. I am a Chemistry major with a Biochemistry concentration and Bioinformatics minor. I recently graduated from SJSU during the spring 2023 semester but have plans on continuing my education at SJSU as an open university student to fulfill class prerequisites to apply for the SJSU Clinical Laboratory Scientist Training Program in the spring 2024 semester.

To talk about volunteer, or job experiences, I volunteered as a math mentor at my high school to help and prepare incoming freshmen for the pace of high school level classes. I was also a teaching assistant at a Buddhist summer program (Theravada Buddhist Society Of America) where I helped with lesson plans and led group student activities. I was recently a student assistant for CHEM 131A at SJSU where I helped answer questions on laboratory procedures and prepped laboratory materials for the lab.

I chose to study abroad because the opportunity to learn about another country’s culture while pursuing an education sounded amazing. Studying abroad allows me to immerse myself in a new culture, language, and lifestyle. This type of exposure while abroad allows me to appreciate and understand cultural diversity. I also saw this study abroad opportunity to help with personal growth. As living in a foreign country comes with challenges that bring me out of my comfort zone, I hoped to build up independence and problem solving skills as I work through unfamiliar situations. I also like the variety of electives as well as class selections for my major offered by exchange programs. Even though I was close to graduating and took most of the classes I needed, I thought it would be nice to experience a different teaching style and classroom environment from a different country. Lastly, I have always wanted to learn a new language, so I saw this as the perfect way to learn and quickly pick up a new language.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?
Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

Studying abroad in South Korea left a positive impact and was life changing. I would have never gotten to experience the things I experience in South Korea anywhere else. I have gained so much cultural knowledge being fully exposed to Korean trends. Making so many new friends and connections in Korea helped to advance my Korean language skills, as I was practicing the language constantly. My experience was full of impactful and wonderful memories that will be a huge part of who I am today. The way I think about myself, the people around me, and the world was significantly changed after studying abroad. I have opened myself to a much more global perspective. Another skill I have improved during my study abroad experience is public speaking. A lot of the classes I took in South Korea are discussion based and require a presentation/project before finals week. The frequent amount of public speaking activities helped me to talk more smoothly, connecting ideas and come up with topics to contribute to conversations.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?
Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

A personal goal for myself was to put myself out there and try something new every week. Even though I’m a shy person, I tried meeting new people and doing new activities. Doing this helped me do things I’ve never done before while making great memories with the people I met. An academic goal I set was to pass all of my classes with an A. Strategies I used to achieve this goal was to preview materials before class as well as to review material after classes to help retain information. These retention strategies help me balance school life while having fun outside of school. A professional goal of mine is to work as a cosmetic chemist, so in South Korea I signed up for makeup formulation classes where I made my own foundation and lipstick shades. I learned about ingredients that go into these products as well as a bit color theory.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

Before my study abroad trip, I would describe my personality as shy and introverted, so the biggest impact that my study abroad experience had on me was becoming more extroverted. I learned that getting out of my comfort zone and attempting to do things either by myself or with new people opens up many hidden opportunities. I learned that just making connections by having a conversation with a stranger or a fellow student in class, helped me to get invited to events/activities or gain a helping hand when it came to exploring a new country.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?
Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?

The courses I took abroad were Basic Korean, Understanding Asian Culture, Comparative Thoughts East and West, and Popular Culture and Media. Strategies I used to ensure my academic success was to choose courses that would be of interest to me as well as help me learn more about the country I am studying abroad in, in that sense I would be engaged and motivated to succeed in these courses.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

To immerse myself in the local culture and at my host university, I joined school clubs and participated actively in the buddy system organized by the school for exchange students. I joined the art club as well as the KITE (Koreans and International Students TalkIng in English) club. These clubs actively promoted group activities where we meet new people and learn cultural activities at the same time. Being immersed in a new culture changed my perspective on the world as being in a classroom with students from all over the world like from Europe, Asia, and other parts of America has taught me how to cooperate with a diverse group of people and understand perspectives on an international level.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad has prepared me for my future in aspects of communication and socialization skills. I am more open to conversing and connecting with people. At the end of these conversations, I share my experience as well as gain knowledge from them. In addition, after studying abroad my interest to try new things has increased. I look forward to taking on new opportunities or facing new challenges.

 

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

Before studying abroad, it is nice to do a bit of research beforehand or reach out to someone who has studied abroad before to help prepare you for a great study abroad experience. You can learn more about what to bring or not bring, culture etiquette wise what to do and not do, recommend places to go or activities to do, etc. Also learning a bit of the language would do wonders when trying to communicate with the locals and trying to get around.

Matthew Heitmann

Matthew HeitmannNAME: Matthew Heitmann
MAJOR: History
PROGRAM: Germany – CSUIP – University of Tübingen
TERM: Fall 2022 & Spring 2023
EMAIL: matthew.heitmann@sjsu.edu
BIO: Please tell us about you and why you chose to study abroad.(REQUIRED)

My name is Matt, and I was born and raised in San José. My parents are both children of European immigrants from Italy & Germany. Growing up, I was raised around these influences and would consider myself culturally Italian-American with my Mom’s parents a major influence on me and their family as a whole – which exposed me to another world outside of English-speaking America from an early age. This ultimately led to my interests in history, culture and languages, choosing to pursue a major in History and minor in German linguistics -perhaps contrary to the culturally dominant Italian part of me. Nonetheless I chose to pursue my passion and do a study year in Germany after completing basic introductory German courses at West Valley and currently am in my second semester here at the University of Tuebingen having progressed tremendously with the German language since I first arrived last July. It is my passion and desire to dedicate my life to academics and become a Professor of History & Languages in the future. My dream is to be at least trilingual, mastering German and Italian in addition to my native English. I felt that I would never truly realize this ambition unless I undertook a study year in Europe which although has been difficult, stressful and at first quite lonely, has become a wonderful multi-cultural experience and the perfect opportunity to hone my second language.

CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?(REQUIRED)
Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

I haven’t returned back home yet, so it’s hard to say exactly how it will look back in California. But I think that I have learned how to work with so many different people, from all over the world and different walks of life. I have created an expansive network of people here in Europe who I know I will always have contact with no matter where I am.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?(REQUIRED)
Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

My goals when choosing to study abroad were threefold:

1. First and foremost, German fluency: As aforementioned, a major goal of mine is to become trilingual, fluent in the languages of my familial culture to complement my English. I believe that becoming at least bilingual is a very important stepping stone in this world, as it unlocks another world in and of itself, gives you another cultural perspective on your world, and most importantly provides so many career opportunities that I would otherwise be limited to with just English.

2. Developing a base in Europe: With the political situation across America growing increasingly more concerning and polarizing for me as a gay man and the increasing unaffordability of my beloved California, I have for the last several years considered my options for living and working in Europe. Before I started my program in Germany, I received my German and European Union Citizenship and Passport. This was important for me, as Europe would now permanently be open to me no matter the path I choose nor what comes of our country. I have worked on meeting as many people here as possible, befriending many of them, as well as exploring institutions such as the German-American Institute(D.A.I.) to better establish myself for future contacts and work here, should I pursue it.

3. Most importantly in the short-term however, is of course my degree. I had already completed my History degree requirements save for 1 or 2 courses prior to departing for Germany. But what was challenging to complete at SJSU unfortunately was my German minor. Here in Germany, I have managed to take all of my academically-required courses for the German minor and extra. I have pushed myself over and over at every opportunity I get here to take as many German language classes as possible. Stressful? Yes! Worth it? Absolutely!

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?(REQUIRED)

Multiculturalism: This is a big one for me. The monolinguistic nature of the U.S. with such a dominant language like English as its mother tongue I feel really limits us in getting to know and understand other cultures, societies, and leaves us blind to many negative aspects of our own society. Growing up ethnic, that is to say, with parents or grandparents and aunts, uncles, cousins who were not born nor raised in the United States, is a tremendous advantage I believe in becoming multiculturally-aware and being able to establish and grow connections with non-Americans. From a young age, I often felt different compared to many of the other kids whose families were entirely born and raised American. I took great pride in my roots, and the struggle that my grandparents went through to make it in America. This would lead to my passion for culture, history, and languages. I have managed to make wonderful friends here from so many different backgrounds. Tuebingen is an extremely international campus, attracting people from all over the world. Getting to know so many wonderful cultures, their traditions, celebrations, holidays, and cuisine has been such an extraordinary opportunity to expand my horizons and learn so much more about our world. California is one of the unique places to grow up in America wherein you are already exposed to multiculturalism from a young age and therefore I think this is why I value it so greatly, seeing it as a given since preschool.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?
Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?

I took a heavy course load of German language, culture, communication and reading classes. In August, I had a special 6 week course program with German language school from 8am-3pm while living with a German host family. In the fall semester, I took 4 German language classes, 1 German reading class, 1 German culture class, 1 intercultural communications class, and now will be taking 5 German language and writing courses. All of which were to obtain my German minor.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Absolutely. This is a natural byproduct of any study abroad program. You are exposed to a different view of the world, which may also include many similarities. You are also subjected to a whole new way of viewing America. Before I came to Europe, even though I considered myself already a very multi-cultural and global person, I definitely had some red, white and blue sunglasses on. That is to say, I had certain judgments and reservations about countries, their political systems, their economics, societies as a whole that were quite wrong. This is something I feel is very important to be self-aware of, and reflect on throughout any study abroad experience, even if you feel like you’re well educated on the country you’re living in. In my case, I have always been a big fan of Germany and seen them as a beacon of European democracy and stability. Yet despite this, I still judged many aspects of German society incorrectly.

 FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?(REQUIRED)

I truly believe that when I return to America this summer, that I will have an extremely different view on our society and the structure of our university, for both better and for worse. For instance, I believe I will naturally gravitate towards and connect with international students, and professors who have gone through a similar experience as me – such as Professor Katsev of my History department, who I have developed a strong relationship with as she also studied in Europe during her youth. I think that should I decide to pursue grad school in Europe, or do another study semester that I will be even more prepared the second time around and much more comfortable with myself. This is the kind of experience that is imprinted upon a person for a lifetime. I will always draw upon my international experience in my future education, career and personal life.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?(REQUIRED)

I think the foremost matter of importance is just pushing yourself to apply for it and commit. I remember the incredible anxiety and worry I had when I was even just considering applying for studying abroad back in January of 2022. Dreams will always stay dreams unless you pursue them, which is why I think this is important advice to always have in the back of your mind.

Once you’ve begun your program, this is some advice which I have received or reflected on and think can be tremendously beneficial to a successful experience:
1. Say yes to every opportunity: Even if it doesn’t work out, even if you don’t end up enjoying it, you still did it. You still took the step, and you learned more about yourself.

2. Put yourself out there: Try to join as many social groups as you possibly can at the beginning. When I first moved into my university’s dorms I joined facebook, instagram, and whatsapp groups to meet as many people as possible. I attended pub crawls, dinner nights, hang outs, in order to meet as many people as I could. Did I end up befriending most of them? No. But I found my people who I clicked best with, I found my friends, and I built my social circle and friend groups with them. They were in the same boat as me just trying to meet other people and so there really isn’t much pressure on you. It’s all in your head!

​​​​​​​3. Take a break when you need to, it’s normal: I have found myself extremely burnt out from too much social activity, and the activities that go with it such as clubbing and drinking. These are a core part of the social experience at any university, which is why I think it’s important to address it in spite of our traditional anti-Alcohol view at American universities. It’s going to be there. You’re going to drink it. That’s just the reality of it. In my first semester I went to a lot of parties and I did a lot of clubbing and drinking with friends. By January, I was completely sick of it and burnt out.