Tag Archives: Italy

Jennifer Garcia

In Rome – Monti

NAME:  Jennifer Garcia

MAJOR: Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: Global Internships – Academic Program International – Institute Lorenzo de Medici – Summer 2025

EMAIL: jennifer.p.garcia@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Jennifer Garcia, and I am a senior at San José State University, majoring in International Business with a concentration in Marketing. I was born in Mexico City and moved to the United States when I was seven, an experience that sparked my curiosity about different cultures and how people connect across borders. Growing up between two worlds taught me the importance of cultural exchange, adaptability, and open mindedness. all of which influenced my decision to study and intern abroad.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to intern in Florence, Italy, where I worked on a sustainable tourism project called Walk Florence With Respect. The experience allowed me to explore new approaches to responsible travel while also applying what I’ve learned in business and marketing to real world challenges. Living abroad not only strengthened my professional skills but also helped me grow personally by stepping out of my comfort zone, engaging with local communities, and adapting to a new environment.

I chose to go abroad because I wanted to immerse myself in another culture, expand my global perspective, and challenge myself academically and professionally. I believe that studying and interning abroad offers a unique chance to learn beyond the classroom while building meaningful connections that shape both career goals and personal growth. My time in Italy confirmed my passion for cross-cultural learning and inspired me to encourage other students to pursue international opportunities.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Before going abroad, I set several goals for my study and internship experience in Florence. Personally, I wanted to challenge myself to adapt to a new culture, build independence, and gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. I aimed to step out of my comfort zone by navigating a new city, engaging with locals, and fully immersing myself in Italian life.

Academically, my goal was to connect my coursework in International Business and Marketing with real world experiences. I wanted to apply classroom concepts to a practical project, gain hands on skills, and understand how business practices function in a global context.

Professionally, I aimed to develop skills that would enhance my career readiness, such as project management, teamwork, communication, and cross cultural problem solving. Through my internship on the project, I was able to research sustainable tourism practices, create practical solutions, and collaborate with a diverse team.

Overall, my goals were to grow as a student, professional, and individual. By the end of my experience, I achieved these goals and returned with stronger skills, greater confidence, and a broadened perspective that continues to influence my academic and career path.

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

The biggest impact my study and internship abroad had on me was gaining confidence in myself and my ability to adapt to new environments. Living in Florence pushed me far outside of my comfort zone, from navigating a new city on my own to collaborating with people from different cultural and academic backgrounds. At first, the challenges felt overwhelming, but with time I realized that I was capable of adjusting, problem solving, and thriving in situations that were unfamiliar.

This experience also deepened my sense of independence. Being away from home taught me how to rely on myself, make thoughtful decisions, and embrace the unknown with a positive mindset. I discovered that growth often happens in moments of discomfort, and this lesson has shaped the way I now approach challenges in both my academics and personal life.

Most importantly, my immersion in another culture gave me a stronger appreciation for diversity and human connection. I returned home with a broader perspective on the world and a renewed commitment to engaging with people respectfully and authentically, no matter where I am.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

During my time abroad in Florence, my academic experience was both rigorous and rewarding. I chose courses that complemented my major in International Business and Marketing while also giving me a deeper understanding of Italian culture and global perspectives. In addition to my classes, I completed a project based internship focused on sustainable tourism, where I researched and developed a guidebook. Balancing coursework with the internship allowed me to apply what I learned in class directly to real world challenges, strengthening both my academic and professional growth.

To ensure my success, I stayed organized by creating a consistent study routine, setting weekly goals, and actively engaging with professors and peers. I also took advantage of my surroundings by connecting classroom concepts with daily experiences in Florence whether through conversations with locals, exploring historical sites, or observing cultural differences in business practices.

Returning to San José State University, I have noticed a stronger sense of confidence in my academic work. The experience taught me how to manage multiple responsibilities, think critically in cross cultural contexts, and contribute original ideas in group projects. My time abroad reinforced my interest in international business and has motivated me to pursue opportunities that continue to bridge cultural understanding with professional development.

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

During my study and internship abroad in Florence, I strengthened several skills that continue to shape both my academic and professional growth. One of the most important was adaptability. Living and working in a new cultural environment required me to adjust quickly, whether it was learning different workplace expectations, navigating language barriers, or managing unfamiliar situations. This flexibility has carried over into how I approach challenges back at San José State and in my personal life.

I also sharpened my communication and collaboration skills. My internship project required me to work closely with a diverse team, share ideas clearly, and present solutions that connected with both local stakeholders and international audiences. These experiences helped me become more confident in group settings, presentations, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Finally, I gained valuable skills in research, problem-solving, and professional networking. Learning to connect academic concepts with real world issues taught me how to think critically and propose practical solutions. Since returning home, I have applied these skills to my coursework, student projects, and future career planning. My time abroad gave me not only technical knowledge but also the confidence and perspective to succeed in global and multicultural environments.

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

My immersion abroad in Florence significantly broadened the way I view the world. Living in another country challenged me to step outside of my own routines and see life through a new cultural perspective. I realized that communities thrive on shared values like respect, adaptability, and connection, regardless of where you come from. By engaging with locals and learning about their traditions, I became more aware of how cultural differences can be strengths rather than barriers.

Working on a sustainable tourism project also changed how I think about global responsibility. I saw how international visitors impact local communities and how conscious decisions such as supporting small businesses or exploring less crowded areas can make a positive difference. This experience reminded me that even individual choices contribute to a larger collective impact.

Overall, my immersion taught me to approach the world with empathy and curiosity. It gave me a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and reinforced my commitment to building bridges across communities. I returned to San José State with a stronger sense of responsibility as a global citizen, motivated to promote respect, sustainability, and understanding wherever I go.

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

Studying and interning abroad in Florence has prepared me for my future by giving me the skills, perspective, and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly globalized world. Through my internship on sustainable tourism, I learned how to apply business and marketing concepts in real world, cross cultural settings. Collaborating with international peers and engaging with local communities strengthened my communication, adaptability, and problem solving skills, qualities that are essential in any professional environment.

Living abroad also enhanced my cultural awareness and global mindset. I learned to navigate unfamiliar situations, respect diverse perspectives, and approach challenges with empathy and creativity. These lessons are directly applicable to my future career in international business, where understanding different markets, cultures, and consumer behaviors is critical.

Finally, the experience inspired me to continue seeking opportunities that connect academic knowledge with real   world impact. I returned home motivated to engage with global issues, contribute positively to communities, and approach my personal and professional goals with confidence, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

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

My advice to a future Global Spartan is to fully embrace the experience and step outside your comfort zone. Take every opportunity to explore the local culture, connect with people, and try new things. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes its some of the best lessons come from challenges. Stay curious, be adaptable, and reflect on your experiences along the way. This mindset will help you grow personally, academically, and professionally while making the most of your time abroad.

Paulina Lopez

Solo traveled Italy for 2 weeks, so this is me at the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa!

NAME: Paulina Lopez

MAJOR:  Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Universidad Autonoma de Barcelona, Spain – Fall 2024

EMAIL: paulina.lopez@sjsu.edu

BIO:

I am Paulina, a Bay Area native. Ever since high school, I have had the goal of traveling abroad, whether for leisure or for school. When applying to colleges, I made sure the study abroad programs these schools provided were places I saw myself living in. I settled on San Jose State not only for its fantastic business program, but also for the options available to study abroad in cities I have always dreamed of. 

Therefore, since my first year at San Jose, the goal was to study abroad for a semester, and I found out this would help me tremendously, as I am majoring in International Business. The experience of studying abroad in Spain, a country where I knew so much of until I didn’t, getting to learn a new culture and immerse myself in a region such as Catalonia where the language was not Spanish, the tradtions and customs were varying. Everything all seemed so excited and I found myself advocating for others to study abroad. 

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My main goal was to prepare myself for the real world. As an international business major, I see myself traveling for work, and my worst fear was leaving the nest. I wanted to grow, but I constantly had the fear of missing out on important events back home. Being able to move abroad for 6 months in the Fall of 2024 taught me that, regardless of distance, I am capable of maintaining relationships and can continue to push myself forward to do things out of my comfort zone, especially as a female solo traveller and a first-generation student who worked for years for this study abroad experience. 

Nevertheless, once admitted for study abroad I made a list of goals that I wanted to achieve, these were examples like making friends with people in my classes that I would take, push myself to take a class in Spanish because regardless of my Mexican background because I always feared taking a class in Spanish and especially in a place where I wasn’t accustomed to the slang, and the use of formalities. Lastly was to travel to countries my family never even knew existed. I wanted to make my presence known in parts of the world where even I had to Google information about.

All of these goals were achieved because I insisted on and pushed for these goals, I am proud of myself and proud of the new future goals I have created and will achieve later on in life. 

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

From the get-go, I was nervous about assimilating into a culture I had heard so much about for years, with many family members chiming in, letting me know their opinions about a country they had never visited but knew so much of because of social media. I was the first in my family to ever do anything like this. I covered all my expenses, handled all the paperwork, and most importantly, experienced what I have been wanting to experience for the longest time. 

The impacts I had throughout my study abroad were meaningful and sincere. I met locals, learned through them. Informed myself on the situations going on in Catalonia, and came back informed, ready to spread the word. I am glad to say I came back more knowledgeable not only about myself but about certain topics that aren’t covered on the news or even dared to be talked about. This was my growth as a student and as a person, I wish other can experience full immersion and enjoy the true beauty their study abroad country has to offer.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Once I knew I wanted to study abroad, I made it a point to keep my upper-division GEs as a slot for me to take abroad. I did this with the intention to be able to having many options on which classes I could take and then be able to choose which ones interested me. As I took 4 classes abroad, I took 3 for my major requirements and for my minor in Spanish. 

Being able to take European Economic Integration, Environmental Economics, Project Management, and lastly a journalism class for Spanish writers was not easy, as the school had different grading systems and the professors were not as flexible as they are back in San Jose. As I did not live on campus and would commute an hour 4 days a week, I made sure that the rest of my time was dedicated to visiting new places around the city that involved some way I could get work done. This would be trying multiple new cafes in a day while getting work done, sitting in a new park while basking in the sun, but getting work done.

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

Before leaving for my study abroad experience, I realized how important LinkedIn was and the real meaning of connections beyond a conversation. I was able to create connections with my professors during my study abroad, and I am still in touch with them. During my travels, I would meet many people working for companies back home in the US, but they were able to pick up their stuff and be able to travel while working. These were the connections I was looking for; therefore, it ultimately sharpened my goals, and I learned how to network with individuals I could see myself potentially messaging in the future for a reference. 

Every conversation was a gateway to meeting other people and potentially even finding jobs post-graduation, or if not, I was inspired by everyone. Regardless of age, gender, or race, every single conversation mattered to me and helped me realize we are all on our own pace and our own paths. I am on my own path and journey and that is what makes us all unique. 

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

As I was able to solo-travel for a month in August and a month in December, I was able to meet new people with whom I am still in contact today. This immersion impacted my perspective because, in the beginning, I was timid to go and almost chickened out of this great experience. But the more I looked into the program, things to do, and places to travel, I only excited myself more. 

When I took solo trips, I made sure to involve myself in as many activities as I could to meet new people, this would be staying in hostels and joining the free tours they would do of the city to learn about a place through a local’s perspective. Or I would play cards with groups in the lobby; this was the raw and real experiences that changed the way I saw traveling. 

Everyone who wanted to travel just did it, scared or not; they still wanted to see the world. I learned how to spend a lot of time with myself and become my own best friend. It inspired me to realize what I wanted to do post-graduation and where I see myself in the future. This immersion was not only life-changing, but it also helped me answer questions I wanted answers to for a very long time.  

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? As an international business major this studying abroad prepared me for my future and not only excited me but has led me to look into master’s programs abroad. I am excited for the endless options and opportunities this major can grant me and by taking the chance of going abroad again in the future will be a breeze for me, and hopefully I can explain to others on how to do so as well.

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

There are many ways to study abroad on a budget. I would give the advice of doing your research and learning which program is right for you. From there, the planning begins.

I would give advice, especially to those going to Barcelona, on which areas to go to, how to get to school, ways to travel, and the ins and outs of Barcelona and traveling around Europe.

Diana Rodriguez

The Trevi Fountain was also amazing to see in person and I also had the opportunity to see it with my parents. They came to visit me and I was able to take them to different places.

NAME: Diana Rodriguez

MAJOR:  Public Health

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – University of Dublin – Spring 2025

EMAIL: diana.rodriguez@sjsu.edu

BIO:

I chose to study abroad because it’s something I have always wanted to do and my older sister inspired me to do it. I also wanted to go out of my comfort zone because it meant growth and change. I have always loved traveling but being able to live over there for a semester was something I’ll never forget.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My personal goals when I was studying abroad was overall getting out of my comfort zone and enjoying my independence. I also had the goal and privilege to travel to different countries in my free time even if it meant doing it by myself. This created confidence in me and I had a positive experience and mindset in the end. My academic goals were staying on track and seeing what the coursework was like. I enjoyed the coursework and the professors I had. In the end, I did well and I’m glad I took the courses that I took. My professional goals that I had set out were overall learning more about their public health issues in Ireland and seeing how I can connect that to my career development when coming back to the United States.

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

The biggest impact studying abroad had on me as I mentioned was gaining independence and confidence in myself. I remember I kept putting off studying abroad because I was scared but looking back I am so glad I did it. Living in a new country pushed me out of my comfort zone and I came back way happier with more confidence. I also got to travel and see so much of Europe and it truly changed my perspective on life.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

The courses I took abroad were social justice classes that tied in with public health. The courses were Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Social Groups, Childhood & Global Justice and Social Justice Movements. These courses consisted of staying organized and planning ahead to ensure success. It was nice to just have one or two major assignments due in the end instead of busy work. The experience hasn’t impacted my academics now that I’m back at SJSU. I much rather prefer the system UCD had but it’s my last semester at SJSU so it’s expected to be a lot.

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

Studying abroad helped me sharpen my communication and adaptability skills since I had to adjust to a new environment and meet new people. I learned how to be more independent and manage my time better. I’ve noticed I carry myself with more confidence and a much more positive mindset which has helped me out a lot within school and my personal life. 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? Studying in Dublin really opened my eyes to how different cultures approach community and health. Being around locals and other international students helped me see the inclusivity and different perspectives. It made me open minded and even has made me consider going for a master’s program in Europe.

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

Studying abroad prepared me for the future by teaching me to adapt to new situations and be comfortable stepping out of my comfort zone. As I mentioned before, I built confidence, improved my communication skills and learned how to connect with people from different backgrounds. These experiences will help me in my personal and career life moving forward.

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

My advice would be to go for it and do not let fear hold you back. I was once in that position that I always kept telling myself that I would do it the following semester. The time finally came and I was scared but everyone was encouraging me to do it. I’m so glad I did it because it was truly the best experience of my life. Be open to new experiences, change, meeting new people and stepping outside of your comfort zone. It’ll be one of the best experiences of your life and you’ll be glad you went for it.

Sophia Diaz

Sophia Diaz

MAJOR: English

PROGRAM: FLP – The Cultured Personality, Italy

EMAIL: sophia.diaz@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Sophia Diaz. I’m an English major, Legal Studies Minor graduating in December 2025. I wanted to go on the Italy study abroad trip because I wanted to see how the Italian personality directly influenced, over decades of immigration, Argentinean culture; this question was relevant to me because my entire family is from Argentina, and I’ve noticed that many Argentinean customs (significant foods, fashion & beauty standards, body language, comfort in social situations, etc.) have their origins in Italy. This trip was an opportunity for me to connect with my roots and visit the country where my ancestors are from.

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE: I currently work as a file clerk for a corporate law firm in Downtown San Jose. On campus, I serve as the Vice President for the Sustainability & Climate Innovation Club and am a student advisor for the Climate Innovation Challenge, which is still in development. I was also the President of the SJSU Mock Trial Program last year, and served multiple leadership and competitive positions during my four years on the team, including Co-Captain, Events Coordinator, and Director of Public Relations. In my spare time, I’m a volunteer coach for my local high school Mock Trial Team.

GOALS: My goals for this trip were largely personal. As I mentioned before, I wanted to form a deeper connection with my Italian heritage by linking my Argentinean cultural traits to the Italian personality, which was related to the study abroad course, PSYC 139, Personality in Culture. Throughout my trip, I also noticed I was asking larger, cultural questions, such as how mass tourism impacts and forces changes within the local culture— something that was unique to both smaller communities, like the island our group stayed in, Ischia, and in larger cities, like Naples or Rome.

I also wanted to use this trip as an opportunity to overcome my anxiety. This trip presented a lot of firsts for me: my first time flying internationally alone (which was daunting considering my fear of flying), my first time rooming with complete strangers, my first time taking a psychology course at the university level, my first time in Italy, amongst other things. The pandemic exacerbated my anxiety and discomfort in new situations, so taking the plunge by signing up for the study abroad course was my way of finally facing my fears and grow in the process.

ACADEMICS: I took PSYC 139, the Cultured Personality, a class that examines cultural-personality research over the past few decades and discusses how the field has evolved over time. Cultural personality research tries to see whether the cultural context of one’s upbringing has a significant effect on their personality; for example, whether growing up in America versus growing up in Japan would drastically change your personality traits, like extroversion, adaptability, openness, and the like. Since this was an upper division course for a major I’m not in, I had to put in a lot of work to understand the academic papers I was reading and answer the homework assignments in a comprehensive, detailed, and informed way. Our cohort would often get together to do the homework and read through the papers together, taking notes and discussing as a group. I would take the time to reread the paper until I understood it, and ask the professor questions about the things I didn’t understand. Being able to tackle subjects that were foreign to me confidently, and developing the courage to speak up about my ideas in class, has translated nicely to life back at SJSU, where I can comfortably participate in class, raise my hand, and sign up for courses that I know I might struggle in, because I’m confident I’ll be able to reach out for the resources I need without feeling awkward or insecure.

On the beach in Mallorca.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: The cultural immersion I experienced last summer didn’t just start or stop in Ischia. It wasn’t just the experience in bonding with and learning from Italian locals, but also from students coming from different parts of the U.S., like Boise, Idaho, or Omaha, Nebraska. In such a politically divisive time in our country, it was really valuable being able to form friendships and bond over our similarities with students who live in communities much different from ours in San Jose. So to start with my perspective on a domestic level, it was really eye-opening for me to meet people who have radically different local customs, beliefs and ideologies, ambitions, and backgrounds, but call themselves American just as I do.

On an international level, I was really happy to immerse myself in Italian culture because it felt almost nostalgic for me, being in the place that Buenos Aires so clearly was inspired by. The elderly Italian locals who invited us into their homes and taught us about their way of life felt like my Argentinean grandparents, with similar ways of displaying their comfort around you and their affection. The immersion made the issues of globalization, commercialization, and capitalism a lot more important to me because I had the opportunity to see firsthand how, for example, American corporate influences like chains such as McDonalds and Starbucks took away the power from local businesses who had to compete with these giant brands, and who felt that their cultural identity was being erased.

CAREER: One of the skills that studying abroad helped me improve was my ability to empathize with others from backgrounds that are different than mine. Its one thing to sympathize with the struggles, ambitions, or needs of a community you aren’t a part of, but it is another thing entirely to truly empathize with them. Being able to witness firsthand how local Italians are affected by regional politics, the economy, and the tourism industry helped me truly visualize how their lives are impacted, instead of feeling detached from their issues, like I might’ve been had I only heard about it in a book or on the news. Growing your ability to truly empathize with others is extremely valuable in law, which is what I want to go into. I would like to go into law school to being a labor law attorney, helping workers protect themselves in hostile environments and stand up for their rights. Being able to empathize with Italian employees whose lives are dependent on the tourism industry, which might not always treat them favorably, and figure out solutions when they were being mistreated, was an emotional and poignant learning opportunity for myself and for my classmates.

PERSONAL GROWTH: My study abroad experience challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone. I get so anxious when confronted with new things that I tense up and retreat into myself. Being surrounded by my classmates who were unapologetically themselves, and threw themselves into the beauty of new experiences, new smells, sights, sounds, and adventures, was really inspiring and helped my personal growth. I learned so much from being around students that had already finished their undergrad and were well into their adult lives, who told me about their college journeys and made me feel more confident about where I was at. I learned from them just as much as I did with my guides abroad, who showed me the joys of human connection and braving the unknown. Will a new experience always be perfect or pleasant? No. But the mantra we were taught by the tour guides, “Life isn’t perfect at home, so why would it be perfect here?”, while on a surface level somewhat negative, really helped me get over my fears and the “what-ifs”. I understood that life always has a potential to go wrong or take you in an unexpected direction, whether you’re at home or abroad, so why not take the chance and try something new anyway? That mantra stuck with me through the entirety of the summer and I think I’m a much more confident person having learned it.

IDENTITIES: I feel that my Latina identity become more prominent over the course of my trip as I became more comfortable and familiar with a culture that embraced the Latin personality. Italians are very similar to Argentineans in mannerisms, slang, body language, outlook on the world, even down to things such as aesthetics, interior design, flora and fauna, and food. It was empowering to be around a culture that felt like it celebrated the things that are so personal to me back home, especially when in my own life, I feel like my Argentine identity isn’t always accepted or understood— particularly in the way that I see my parents get treated, and how they sometimes face judgment for their accents, their slipups speaking in English, their lack of familiarity with American customs. I also felt empowered because of the many Latinx students in our cohort, some of my classmates being Puerto Rican, Mexican, and Colombian, to name a few, with whom I get to bond with over our shared cultural heritage.

FUTURE:  Italy Abroad and my summer overseas help me develop into a more confident and proactive individual. I was a very anxious person before I left for my trip, unsure if I would be able to survive the discomfort and confusion that comes with the unknown. But now, I’m ready to tackle new experiences and uncomfortable situations by successfully managing my anxiety.

TIPS: Look out for your mental health and learn to rely on your friends! Traveling abroad can be really overwhelming, but its important to remember to be kind to yourself as you’re trying new things and putting yourself out there, and to remember to support your classmates just as they support you, because you’re all experiencing these new things together.  Get a good amount of sleep the night before an excursion or activity. Traveling is really fun, but some times the days can be quite busy, so practicing good time management so you can finish your homework, take care of your personal needs, and get a good amount of sleep is crucial.

Imaan S

Imaan S

MAJOR: Psychology

PROGRAM: FLP – The Cultured Personality, Italy

EMAIL: email now

BIO: I am a psychology major and not only did I want to take the Psychology of Personality course, but I wanted to do so abroad. Studying psychology in another country offered a unique opportunity to gain profound insights into the influence of culture on human behavior, broadened my understanding of global mental health issues, and helped me grow professionally and personally. I also love studying other cultures and what better way to do that than to be there in person and have that full immersive experience! Last but not least, I have always wanted to go to Italy!

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: In high school, I was the secretary of the Muslim Student Association, was the mascot of my class, was a part of the National Honors Society, was a Freshman Link officer, and was part of the DEI club. Currently, I am a writing tutor at the Writing Center here at SJSU and am the vice president of the new Sustainability and Climate Innovation Club. I have had lots of opportunities to work and lead students using the knowledge I have acquired through my experiences.

GOALS: Through participating in this program, my goals were to experience personal growth, learn about cross-cultural perspectives and comparative social psychology, as well as global approaches to mental health and applied research opportunities.

ACADEMICS: I took the Psychology of Personality Italy Abroad (FLP) program. I made sure to do all required assignments and keep up with readings to curate context and mindfulness regarding our itinerary. Keeping up with the readings allowed for meaningful discussion among our class and with tourists. Now that I have returned, I feel motivated to do assignments, keeping in mind various perspectives and practicing patience.

This me was visiting the city of Pompeii on a very hot and sunny day!

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: This class gave me exposure to how psychology is understood, practiced, and perceived in different cultures which broadened my horizons and promoted critical thinking about my own culture’s norms. Learning how culture shapes the expression, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions helped me become a more culturally sensitive and competent learner. Identifying which concepts and theories in psychology transcend cultural boundaries and are more specific to certain cultures deepened my understanding of the human mind’s complexities. Observing the dynamics of social groups in a new culture allowed me to compare social behaviors and norms, helping me understand the impact of culture on social interactions. Exploring the differences in how self-identity, social roles, and communication are shaped by collectivistic or individualistic cultures expanded my understanding of human interactions. Understanding how cultural differences can contribute to misunderstandings and learning the skills of intercultural communication is invaluable.

CAREER: Exploring the use of traditional healing practices, complementary therapies, and their integration with Western psychological approaches expanded my knowledge base of the various ways to provide mental healthcare. Learning about different cultural perspectives on resilience and effective coping mechanisms helped identify new ways to support people from diverse backgrounds. Understanding the global disparities in mental health treatment and the cultural stigma attached to mental illness helped me be an advocate for change. Hands-on experience in a cross-cultural setting provided invaluable insights into real-world applications of psychological principles and allowed me to make meaningful contributions.

PERSONAL GROWTH: Living and studying in a new culture challenged my comfort zone, fostered resilience, and encouraged me to be more open to different worldviews. Being immersed in a new environment led to introspection, and taught me more about my own cultural biases and personal values. By gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures, I developed a broader perspective and learned to become a more responsible and empathetic global citizen.

IDENTITIES: As a woman in Italy, you definitely get some lingering stares (not bad just noticeable). I also found myself questioning my own religious and moral beliefs being in a country which has lower drinking ages.

FUTURE: It has allowed me to become more independent and confident in myself. It fostered an environment for me to be able to grow more into myself. It has opened so many opportunities and connections for me! With these connections, I am able to try and learn new skills that are useful in my field.

TIPS: I would advise them to enjoy their experiences and be open to making life-long friends! This is an opportunity of a lifetime. While you travel, take the time to be grateful and open to new experiences. It will make the trip that much more memorable and meaningful.

Scholarship to Study in Florence, Italy

Study in Florence Scholarship

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

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

Ingrid Camberos Gallardo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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