Tag Archives: Edinburgh Napier University

Jennifer Robles Chairez

fashion day in Rome

NAME: Jennifer Robles Chairez

MAJOR: Business Administration/Management

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange –Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland – Spring 2025

EMAIL: jennifer.robleschairez@sjsu.edu

BIO:

I am a Business Management major at San Jose State University. I chose to study abroad because I wanted to experience something completely different from what I was used to. I had never lived outside of  San Jose, California, and I felt like going abroad would challenge me and help me grow personally and academically. I also wanted to see more of the world, meet new people, and get a better understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My goals were to grow more independent, explore another part of the world, and get out of my comfort zone. Academically, I wanted to experience a different school system and still do well. Professionally, I was hoping this experience would help me stand out and show that I am flexible, open to new challenges, and able to adapt to different environments. On a personal level, I wanted to slow down, take time for myself, and really take in the experience.

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

The biggest impact studying abroad had on me was learning how to rely on myself and be okay with being uncomfortable. Being in a new country where I did not know anyone at first really pushed me to figure things out on my own, from getting around to budgeting to balancing school and personal life. It was not always easy, but I grew a lot from it. I became more open-minded, more confident in handling change, and more independent overall. The experience made me realize how much I am capable of and it definitely changed how I look at things back home and in my day-to-day life.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Academically, it was definitely a different structure than what I was used to, but I learned a lot. I took classes in Logistics and Supply Chain, Business Strategy and Sustainable Development, and Operations Management. The courses were more independent, with fewer assignments but more weight on each one, so I had to stay organized and plan ahead. I made sure to pace myself, start assignments early, and reach out to professors when needed. Overall, it challenged me in a good way and helped me become more confident in handling higher-level business courses. Since coming back to SJSU, I feel more prepared and focused when it comes to managing my workload and applying what I’ve learned.

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

I learned how to adapt quickly, communicate with people from different backgrounds, and solve problems on the spot. I also got better at managing my time and staying organized without relying on anyone else to remind me. Studying abroad helped improve my confidence in new settings, which I know will help me in interviews, networking, and eventually in the workplace. It also made me more open to working internationally one day.

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

Living abroad really opened my eyes to how people live differently depending on where they are. It taught me not to assume that my way is the only or best way. I noticed a lot of cultural differences, like how people approach time, work, and social life, and it made me more understanding and curious. I met people from all over the world, and hearing their stories helped me see how connected we really are, even with our differences.

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

Studying abroad taught me how to adapt to new environments, manage my time more effectively, and stay calm when things do not go as planned. It also helped me become more independent and confident in my decisions. I now feel more open to the idea of working internationally or with people from different backgrounds. This experience reminded me that I am capable of handling new challenges, which gives me confidence moving forward with my career goals.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

Be open to change, even when it feels uncomfortable at first. Say yes to new experiences, even the small ones. You will learn a lot about yourself just by doing everyday things in a new place. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help or reach out to others. There will be ups and downs, but that’s part of what makes the experience worth it. Lastly, take time to appreciate where you are and reflect on how far you’ve come.

Joshita Konakanchi

Glasgow

NAME: Joshita Konakanchi

MAJOR: Continuing Education

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland – Spring 2025

EMAIL: venkatasivasaijoshita.konakanchi@sjsu.edu

BIO: Hi! This is Joshita, currently in my 3rd year at SJSU. I’ve always been curious about travelling and am always up for trying new things and experiences, which is what led me to study abroad. I chose to study in Edinburgh, Scotland, because I wanted to challenge myself by stepping into a completely new environment, meeting people from different backgrounds, and gaining inspiration from Scotland’s rich history, art, and landscapes.

As a design student, I believe that exploring new cultures broadens creativity and teaches adaptability—skills that are important not only in design but in any global career. Most importantly, studying abroad gave me the chance to learn more about who I am as an individual, to document my experiences through art, photography, and journaling, and to build meaningful connections. Also a chance to share the beauty and experiences with the world through my YouTube and Instagram. 

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My main goals for studying abroad were to grow personally and become more self-reliant. Academically, I wanted to challenge myself by meeting new people from around the world, collaborating in classes, and building meaningful relationships through group work and shared experiences.

On a personal level, I learned how to fend for myself in a new environment, which greatly boosted my self-confidence and showed me that I can handle challenges even when things don’t go as planned. I also documented my journey by sharing content on Instagram and YouTube, which allowed me to reflect on my growth and connect with others through storytelling.

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

The biggest impact of my study abroad experience has been on my personal growth and emotional intelligence. I gained a deeper understanding of people and friendships, learning to connect with others from diverse backgrounds—relationships I will truly miss. Living independently helped me manage my finances, daily responsibilities, and personal interests, while also increasing my environmental awareness. Overall, the experience strengthened my confidence, self-reliance, and ability to adapt to new situations. I developed a viewpoint where I can say, “I have myself to figure this out.” I learned to observe and understand people better, and spot situations where I have to improve my social skills; this means that I have more room to grow. I am not scared of being in a new environment and have the need to figure it all before.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

As a Design Studies student with a specialization in Graphic Design, I chose courses that aligned with my interests and allowed me to explore new perspectives: Branding, Human-Computer Interaction, and Scottish Culture and Society. These classes helped me not only deepen my design knowledge but also understand the cultural context of the country I was living in.

To ensure academic success, I stayed organized, collaborated with classmates from diverse backgrounds, and balanced coursework with hands-on projects. This experience taught me time management, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills that I continue to apply at SJSU. Since returning, I feel more confident in approaching group projects, incorporating diverse perspectives into my design work, and using new strategies to solve creative problems.

I also noticed the difference in teaching style, in education system, and in some ways it was eye-opening and gave me a different perspective in learning.

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

As someone shy and introverted, I significantly improved my communication skills by collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. I also sharpened my problem-solving and adaptability, learning to navigate unfamiliar situations independently. Additionally, working on group projects and managing my own schedule strengthened my teamwork and time-management skills, all of which are directly applicable to my future career in design and beyond. Importantly, I networked.COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? 

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

Studying abroad has strengthened my clarity and passion for the path I want to pursue, giving me a better sense of my personal and professional goals. It helped me build independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills, which I know will be valuable in any future career or learning opportunity. This experience also reinforced my commitment to continuous growth and exploration, inspiring me to keep seeking new challenges and perspectives as I move forward. Oh yeah, more travelling!

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

One piece of advice I would give to a future Global Spartan is: just go for it! If you’re doubting your ability to live in a new country or adapt to a different environment, remember that you are stronger than you think, and this experience will prove it to you. Studying abroad will help you grow, be open-minded to new perspectives, and truly broaden your horizons. Stay open-minded, embrace challenges, and everything else will follow.

Make the most of your time! Live in the moment, do what you thought was impossible for you, and DON’T hesitate to try something new. And above all, trust yourself—every step you take outside your comfort zone will shape you into a more confident, resilient, and inspiring version of yourself. This is your chance to create memories that will last a lifetime, so be fearless and make it unforgettable.

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!

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.