Tag Archives: SJSU Exchange

Sophia Garske

Sophia Garske

NAME: Sophia Garske
MAJOR: Business Administration, International Business
PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Spain
EMAIL: sophia.garske@sjsu.edu

“One of my favorite memories is from traveling through the south of Spain with a group of international students. Seeing new cities together bonded us in a unique way, and I still enjoy keeping up with their lives. We watched locals making art on the streets, listened to live Spanish music, and explored the city together. I never could have imagined any of these experiences before studying abroad- I didn’t plan it, some surprises just happened naturally. This is why I think everybody should at least consider studying abroad: you open up in a lot of new ways, and different places in the world start to feel like home.”

Sophia GarskeBIO: 

Navigating different cultures has been a part of my life since before I could logically understand what “culture” meant. My mother is Colombian and my father from the United States, meaning bilingualism has been a norm not only in my home, but in any environment I found myself in. Growing up, I had the luck of living in both the U.S. and Colombia. By the time I arrived in San Jose, I knew my time to see the world was not over, but only just beginning. Since my very first day on campus at orientation, the moment I met Julie and learned that studying abroad was an option, I was set. I had a deep understanding that, no matter what country I chose, studying abroad in college would be in the books for me. I was lucky enough that I could find scholarships to make this dream come true. I am extremely motivated by helping other students become aware of the many existing scholarship opportunities, and love when students reach out to me for tips about how to make the most of studying abroad! 

After participating in several outreach programs to speak on international education, I am excited to continue motivating others on this path. As a person who has deeply benefitted from the opportunities to study abroad offered by SJSU, including the phenomenal programs, guidance, and scholarship opportunities, I would be tremendously grateful if another individual could enjoy the same life changing experience.

 GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My goals for studying abroad were to make the absolute most of the experience… Only, at first I didn’t have a plan, so I made a decision to take it one step at a time, and enjoy opportunities that were made available to me. Before going abroad, I identified scholarship opportunities. While abroad I said yes to volunteering opportunities. Then, I absolutely loved taking a class on the local language, Catalan. These three activities not only made my time in Barcelona unique and memorable, but also completely impulsed my career path. I encourage any SJSU student looking to add an extremely unique perspective on their resume to consider researching scholarships, volunteering or languages during their time abroad.

I was surprised to see how many scholarships are offered for study abroad students. By looking through the scholarships listed on the SJSU study abroad website and doing a couple Google searches, I was motivated to explore how much funding I could supply for my abroad experience. I ended up receiving the Benjamin A Gilman International Scholarship and the Ling Scholarship, which I highly encourage students to check out, as they may be more accessible than people think.  

While abroad, volunteering allowed me to work on teams with local teachers and students, and see volunteering in a new light. The Fulbright Lectures in Catalan High Schools outreach program was so fun, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and speak to audiences of up to 90 students! During my job search, I was able to highlight on my resume that I could face new challenges, such as public speaking, and taught 460 students in Spain about international education opportunities. This is an advantage I believe students should be aware of- volunteering can be incredibly strategic for job hunting. Studying abroad is already such a point of intrigue when meeting new people, but being able to show your future employer how you apply your potential is a powerful bonus. 

One of my main goals was to learn the Catalan language. The next thing that surprised me was that taking a language class in a new country works one million times better than Duolingo, shockingly. I wanted to be part of the community that cared enough about Catalonia to learn, and take care of their language. I was excited, and deeply motivated, by the smile on people’s faces when I spoke to them in their language and fell in love with learning languages. I learned that language classes are a lot of fun, and give you the tools to connect with the local community with newfound confidence. Since studying in Barcelona, I ultimately became more sure of my decision to declare a major in Business Administration, International Business, and continue to make my experience abroad relevant to my professional life. Learning the Catalan language began as a small spark that over time led me to discover many aspects of myself, in a personal and professional sense, that were previously buried. My passion for learning languages was unexpected, and I am grateful to bring this with me in future professional, academic and personal endeavors.

In sum, students looking to make the most of their abroad experience, and especially those looking for a new advantage job hunting can look into scholarships, volunteering, and learning languages while abroad.  

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

I was immersed in an environment that I see myself in the long run: traveling through different countries, meeting different people, learning about the different experiences that people have based on their languages and places of origin. I met individuals who taught me about friendship, and why the people in our life are important. I discovered differences in how topics are discussed while I listened to educated, critical and points of view that were extremely new to me and different  to anything I had heard before. I experienced kindness and connection in every country that I went to, spanning from amazing conversations in Belgium, seeing snow with a group of friends Andorra (the country), or visiting Morocco and having a laugh (and panic) when our lovely tour guide laid in the middle of the street just to see us smile (we told him he shouldn’t do that).

All in all, the integration of the connection I experienced, and seeing how every person in the world just wants to feel loved, while all having different languages to express this has profoundly touched me in ways I don’t think I ever will understand. I just feel lucky to have lived, and experienced these beautiful people, and know that I bring this love with me wherever I go, no matter how my environment looks.

IDENTITIES: How did the identities you selected change or impact your study abroad experience?

My identity as “Colombian and American” experienced many complex shifts during my time abroad, as the language that I spoke in determined how people processed my actions.

When I spoke to people in Spanish, I experienced comments on my heavy Colombian accent, very different to the Spanish accent (from Spain). Many enjoy listening to the Colombian accent, yet in Spain there are many stereotypes on Latin Americans in general, and I received comments about documentation, deportation and to “be careful with police” on several occasions. These moments had a reverse effect in my brain, motivating me to share the beauty of Colombian culture and biodiversity, with the goal of giving others a new topic of conversation. I also grew to bond more frequently with Latin Americans from countries other than Colombia, including Peru, Chile, and Mexico, and enjoyed a sense of community and cultural understanding, while learning about the Catalonian culture which was new to all of us.

In hindsight, I had many positive experiences as a result of my culture, and can also reflect on the impact that ignorance and the propagation of stereotypes can have on seemingly neutral interactions. As always, I stand by the richness of culture present in Colombia, and I use my awareness of offhanded comments to craft new points of conversations with individuals from countries who also do not have the “best fame”, with the goal of uncovering the beauty within cultures that often go unnoticed.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

I took several GE courses while abroad, including Marine Science, Catalan language, Comparative Literature, and several others, and would describe this experience as enriching. This experience has impacted my academics in the sense that I am more grateful for the style of teaching and guidance practiced by teachers in the U.S. One of the main tips I would give to another student is to make sure their Academic Approval Form (AAF) is finalized before classes begin. Overall, my academic experience in Spain prepared me to navigate academics in a new, and more appreciative light of the system that exists in the U.S., as well as share perspective to guide other students planning on studying abroad. 

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

 Through my experiences with scholarship, volunteering and language opportunities, I realize that studying abroad is a career enhancer when done right. I learned about intercultural communication, public speaking, problem solving and developing a strong mindset. I  sharpened my interviewing skills, by finding a newfound confidence in activities I have dedicated my time to, where I found that creating awareness on different opportunities and resources is very gratifying to me. Saying yes to new challenges abroad helped me to land an internship in a company I was extremely excited about, but knew was highly competitive. 

The Fulbright Lecture Series volunteering in high schools opened up several valuable opportunities to hone my public speaking skills, while sharing my knowledge on practical steps to studying in the U.S. for international students. I practiced educating myself on a topic- U.S. higher education opportunities- then speaking publicly on the subject in Spanish or English, with the average audience size being about 60 students. This experience was quite new to me, yet I know I will bring this ability with me to any room that I walk into. I discovered that I enjoy sharing resources with people, and continue to seek opportunities to do so on campus, such as the Global Ambassador program.

In sum, the skills that I acquired speaking and sharing resources in high schools abroad have equipped me with the public speaking abilities and drive to motivate others toward the path of international education, as well as helped me land internships that help me feel confident in my career path. 

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

 After engaging with the Catalan community, as well as other international students studying in Barcelona, I realize just how valuable an experience living abroad is for creating mutual understanding and empathy. In many cases, I noticed that the individuals who had previously experienced multiculturality tended to be open minded and accepting of others. I noticed how many naturally understood that “different” is not equivalent to strange, but actually an opportunity to become familiar with a different life experience, and even try something new. Going forward in my life, I hope to grow my engagement with individuals from cultures that I may not even be familiar with in this moment, to continue to grow my different interests, and even my ability to connect with people on different levels.

While abroad, I participated in several volunteering opportunities that were made available to me through the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program. The Reach The World organization and Fulbright Lectures in Catalan High Schools outreach program allowed me to raise awareness on international education among elementary and high school students in the U.S. and Spain.

Firstly, the Reach the World program allowed me to document my first months in Spain through articles that I sent every week to a fourth grade classroom. These articles have since been used in several elementary school classrooms to encourage global curiosity and empathy among young students. This program lasted throughout the duration of my first semester abroad.

During my second semester in Spain, I travelled throughout the region of Catalonia to speak in front of high school students, sharing my knowledge on higher education in the United States, and offering resources for those interested in pursuing this path. I visited 6 schools and spoke to up to 90 students at a time; in total, I reached 460 students. This experience motivated me to continue sharing resources for those interested in obtaining a global education. Interacting with students from different regions of Catalonia, and seeing how excited they were at the possibility of studying in another country was one of the most gratifying experiences from my time abroad.

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

My experiences through studying abroad have prepared me to continue seeking opportunities on an international scale. This experience has made me sure of my decision to declare a major in Business Administration with a concentration in International Business, and based on the opportunities that have been made available to me, I am excited to continue learning about this path. 

One of the most exciting experiences I remember was being flown to Brussels, Belgium to attend a study tour of the European Union, where we met other Gilman Scholars and EU officials. The chance to attend this study tour felt like a profoundly touching gift, and knowing that these opportunities exist, I am prepared to open myself up to more in my future, choosing for example to study International Business, continuing to learn languages and make the most of the opportunities to travel abroad.

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

Make the most of every opportunity, and give yourself grace in the process. Studying abroad creates access to a wealth of exciting opportunities, whether that be chances to meet people, participate in a scholarship program, or attend a new cultural event. This being said, there are moments where our familiar identities or understanding of life no longer fit where they are “supposed to”; in other words, uncomfortable and frustrating moments are completely natural. More than natural, these are the moments that ultimately give us tools to discover new parts of ourselves. Uncomfortability results, I believe, from experiencing potential that our brain does not yet have the tools to process. The beauty in this is that we are changing, and the way that a person changes during studying in a new country can feel so deeply rewarding in the long run and can open up a completely new and unexpected life path.

Fall 2025/Fall 2025-Spring 2026 Deadline Extension

Interested in studying abroad this Fall 2025 semester or for the Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 Academic Year? You can still go! We have extended the application deadline to March 1 for the below NSE programs, March 3 for the below ISEP programs, and March 15 for the below SJSU Exchange & CSU IP programs. 

 

NSE (March 1)

If you are interested in studying at one of the 170 campuses in the National Student Exchange (NSE), the deadline is March 1 (then rolling until November 1, 2025). Contact Vid Raatior (vid.raatior@sjsu.edu) or book an appointment to discuss the NSE options.

ISEP Programs (March 3)

ISEP Exchange deadlines are March 1 and many ISEP Direct programs have later deadlines. As the deadline falls on a weekend, we will accept applications through 2 PM EST on Monday, March 3. Contact Vid Raatior (vid.raatior@sjsu.edu), the ISEP Coordinator at SJSU or better yet connect directly with the ISEP Team for any questions.

SJSU Exchange (March 15)

Europe

Contact Julie Lucas (julie.lucas@sjsu.edu) or book an appointment here for these SJSU Exchange programs.

Asia / Oceania

Contact Vid Raatior (vid.raatior@sjsu.edu) or book an appointment for these SJSU Exchange options.

CSU IP (March 15)

The below CSU IP program deadlines have been extended to March 15! Contact Julie Lucas (julie.lucas@sjsu.edu) or book an appointment here for these CSU IP programs.

Jeremy Gaviola Quero

Jeremy Quero

Near the river in Budapest in the pest side!

NAME: Jeremy Gaviola Quero

MAJOR: Engineering Technology Manufacturing Systems

PROGRAM: Business and Society – Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences – Rotterdam Netherlands (Spring 2023), The Intern Group – Hong Kong Special administrative regions of China (Summer 2025)

EMAIL: jeremy.quero@sjsu.edu

BIO: 

Prior to this experience, studying abroad was not part of my academic plan. I had envisioned my college journey as a straightforward path—attending classes and returning home for four years. However, that perspective changed when a study abroad representative visited my engineering careers class and introduced the possibility of studying internationally. This encounter ultimately led me to spend the Spring 2023 semester at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS), an experience that I believe every student should consider. I stepped out of my comfort zone, got to understand Dutch culture as well as the many other cultures present, and most importantly, I traveled across Europe with the friends I made in Rotterdam. In Summer 2025, I will further enhance my international experience by participating in The Intern Group program in Hong Kong for ten weeks. This opportunity will allow me to gain practical experience in engineering while expanding my professional and cultural understanding on a global scale. To any student considering studying or interning abroad—take the leap. These experiences go beyond academics; they are transformative opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural exploration, and self-discovery.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

I wanted to challenge myself by immersing myself in a completely new environment—living in a country where I had no prior experience, adapting to its culture, and learning how to navigate life on my own. My goal was not just to study abroad, but to truly understand how the Netherlands operates—both culturally and academically—and to prove to myself that I could succeed in a foreign setting. Living independently in a new country taught me valuable life skills, from managing day-to-day responsibilities to building connections with people from diverse backgrounds. On a professional level, I embraced the challenges that my host university presented, tackling them head-on with determination and resilience. Through this experience, I not only grew as a student but also as an individual, gaining confidence in my ability to adapt, overcome obstacles, and thrive in any environment.

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

The biggest impact this experience had on me was not just gaining a global perspective, but also rediscovering my own identity. As an American citizen, I’ve always been immersed in a diverse culture, but studying abroad reminded me of my roots—what it truly means to be a Filipino. Being in a foreign country, away from familiar surroundings, allowed me to reflect on my heritage and appreciate the values instilled in me by my culture. Living alone and adjusting to a completely new environment pushed me to become more independent, resilient, and adaptable. I learned how to navigate challenges, embrace uncertainty, and find ways to succeed on my own. Beyond personal growth, this experience also changed the way I see education and work. Observing how students from different countries approach learning, problem-solving, and collaboration opened my eyes to new perspectives. I took the best aspects of their work ethics and applied them to my own, ultimately shaping me into a more well-rounded and globally aware individual.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

When it comes to research and presentations, ensuring success requires more than just preparation—it demands initiative and action. To excel, I make it a priority to take the first step by actively engaging in the process. Instead of relying solely on existing information, I go out into the field, make observations, and gather firsthand insights. By applying this proactive approach, I not only strengthen my research but also build confidence in my ability to analyze, present, and communicate effectively. Taking initiative allows me to develop a deeper understanding of my subject matter, making my presentations more insightful, engaging, and impactful.

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

During my time abroad, I developed and strengthened several key skills: focus, resiliency, and perseverance. Focus: Studying abroad meant balancing independence, academics, and social life. I wanted to make the most of my time in Rotterdam—exploring the city and enjoying activities with the friends I made. However, I knew that in order to fully enjoy these experiences, I had to stay disciplined. I made it a priority to complete all my assignments before heading out, ensuring that I met my academic responsibilities while still making time for adventure. Resiliency: Adapting to a new academic system came with its challenges. The professors at RUAS often had different expectations, and there were moments when assignment instructions lacked clarity due to a lack of communication between faculty members. Rather than getting frustrated, I learned to adapt, ask the right questions, and deliver my best work despite the uncertainties. Perseverance: Moving to a new country alone meant stepping out of my comfort zone in more ways than one. I had to rebuild my social circle from scratch, which pushed me to take more initiative both in and outside of school. Through this, I formed friendships with students from all over the world, from Germany to Indonesia. This experience expanded my perspective beyond Dutch culture, allowing me to immerse myself in a truly global community. These skills—focus, resiliency, and perseverance—not only helped me thrive during my study abroad experience but continue to shape me as a student and professional today.

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

One of the biggest takeaways from my study abroad experience was realizing that there is no single way to learn, work, or live. Different countries have their own educational systems, cultural expectations, and approaches to problem-solving. What might be considered a standard practice in one country can be entirely different in another. For example, at SJSU, the education system is structured with clear syllabi, assignment deadlines, and professors who frequently check in with students. In contrast, at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences , I noticed that the teaching approach was more independent, with professors expecting students to take more initiative in figuring out assignments. Sometimes, there were miscommunications between instructors, which required adaptability and problem-solving skills. This experience taught me how to navigate ambiguity and become more self-sufficient in my studies. Beyond academics, cultural differences also influence how people interact and collaborate. In some cultures, teamwork and collective decision-making are highly valued, while in others, individual initiative is encouraged. Meeting students from diverse backgrounds helped me see that there isn’t a “right” or “wrong” way to work—just different approaches shaped by history, traditions, and societal norms. Understanding this has made me more open-minded and adaptable when working in international environments. This realization is something I will carry with me into my future career. The world is increasingly interconnected, and being able to adapt to different working styles, respect diverse perspectives, and embrace new ways of learning will be crucial in any professional setting. This perspective has already pushed me further, leading me to apply for and secure a position with The Intern Group in Hong Kong for Summer 2025. I am eager to experience yet another work culture and gain even more insights into how people around the world approach education and business.

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

This experience prepared me not just for school but for life. The way I see things now is completely different from how I did in those six months in 2023. Moving forward, studying abroad has taught me to be more independent and has given me greater confidence in my academic methods. Meeting new people from different backgrounds helped me realize that everyone has their own way of working and their own unique journey. Personally, I will continue to challenge myself by taking more risks to grow and become more successful. Studying abroad pushed me beyond my limits, inspiring me to seek even greater opportunities. Because of this, I took another leap and successfully secured a position with The Intern Group for the Hong Kong program in Summer 2025. This is another step in my journey of personal and professional growth, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.

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

If I could give one piece of advice to future Global Spartans, it would be this: take initiative and challenge yourself—not just as a student, but as a person. Studying or interning abroad is more than just an academic or professional experience; it’s an opportunity for personal growth, cultural exploration, and self-discovery. Wherever you go, embrace the journey with an open mind and a willingness to push your limits. It’s natural to feel nervous about traveling to a new country, especially if it’s your first time living abroad. However, don’t let fear hold you back. The only person stopping you from experiencing life is yourself. Say yes to opportunities, whether it’s trying new foods, learning a new language, or making friends from different backgrounds. Every new experience will help shape you into a more confident, adaptable, and globally aware individual. Opportunities like these don’t come around often. Make the most of them. Whether you’re studying, interning, or volunteering abroad, commit yourself fully to the experience. Engage with your host culture, get involved in local activities, and challenge yourself academically and professionally. There will be moments of uncertainty and challenges along the way, but that’s where the real growth happens. While academics or professional work are important, don’t forget to enjoy the journey. Travel, explore, and immerse yourself in the culture of your host country. Meet new people, form lifelong friendships, and create memories that you’ll carry with you forever. The best stories come from the experiences you never expected to have, so be spontaneous and embrace the adventure. One of the greatest gifts of studying or interning abroad is the perspective it gives you. You’ll return home with a new way of seeing the world—more open-minded, more adaptable, and more prepared to take on future challenges. These experiences shape you into a better global citizen, capable of working and connecting with people from all walks of life. So to all future Global Spartans, take that leap of faith. Challenge yourself, step beyond what’s comfortable, and embrace every moment. The lessons you’ll learn, the friendships you’ll make, and the experiences you’ll gain will stay with you for a lifetime.

Alex Osorio

MAJOR: English/Creative Writing

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kyushu University, Japan

EMAIL: alexander.osorio@sjsu.edu

BIO: My decision to study abroad was mainly influenced by my interest in Japanese culture and media, and wanting to learn at a deeper level by completely immersing myself in it. It is also, of course, related to my minor in Japanese

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I was in the Boy Scouts of America for eight years, being elected to serve as Patrol Leader for two years and Instructor for another two—both of which involved coordinating group activities and providing mentorship and education to younger scouts. We worked numerous hours of local community service and on many other related projects. Achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on May 2021.

GOALS: To benefit my pursuit in writing, one of my main reasons for studying abroad was to expand my perspective on the world. I also have a great interest in Japanese history and literature and wanted to take time studying it. Besides this, I hoped that living in a foreign country for nearly one year would greatly impact me on a personal level and change the way I see things in American society and culture, something which turned out to be absolutely true.

Cherry blossom festival at Maizuru Park in Fukuoka

ACADEMICS: I enrolled in a mix of Japanese culture and Japanese language courses, the latter of which I placed the bulk of my focus on due to my minor in Japanese. However, the university I chose did not have a wide variety of humanities courses, so I was unable to continue pursuing units for my major in English while abroad.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Like I described earlier, I think living in another country has given me new insight into my own home culture. How Japan treats things such as health insurance and public transportation, for example. But also the differences in society, being more focused on the collective rather than our straight individualism. I think there is much to be learned from each other and we can mutually benefit from continued cultural exchange (exchange is, of course, a two-way thing).

CAREER: I think I have greatly enhanced my social and networking skills and can now more efficiently communicate with people from a wide variety of different cultures. It takes a lot to be accommodating of people’s differences on a cultural and individual level and I think that this environment was the perfect way to gain some experience.

PERSONAL GROWTH: I would say that my experience studying abroad has helped me cultivate a much stronger sense of independence and responsibility, and reflect on myself and my own experiences in a way that I think I could not have otherwise. I have made strides in opening myself up to people and pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. Without this I firmly believe that I would not have grown as much as a person.

FUTURE: Studying abroad in Japan has given me firsthand experience with learning a new language, which I believe will be invaluable if I do decide to pursue teaching English in the country. In addition, as a writer this has offered me a great deal of rich and interesting personal experiences from which to pull from.

TIPS: If you do decide to study abroad, don’t be afraid to jump straight in and get involved at the start. It took me a few months to really start getting to know people and get involved with campus activities and I think that closed a lot of doors for me. Everyone will be in a similar situation, so keep in mind that you won’t be the only one feeling a bit overwhelmed and that there will be people to support you and guide you.

Kai Lim

Kai Lim

MAJOR: Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Sophia University, Japan

EMAIL: kai.lim@sjsu.edu

BIO: As someone who was born in Tokyo and has family over there, I share a strong connection with the city and Japan overall. I want to pursue a career in international business, which may involve long-term travel and interaction with diverse groups of people. Thus, I felt Tokyo to be a more than suitable location for my study abroad.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I have had two internships and two jobs, one in Tokyo! I was also the Service chair for my fraternity right before I left for exchange. Now I am the Alumni Relations chair for the same fraternity.

GOALS: I was hoping to be more immersed in Tokyo, to experience the life of being a student in Japan. I wanted to explore as many facets of Japan as I could. I was immersed in the fashion, the trendy areas, the local areas, food, nightlife, and general lifestyle. I wanted to make friends from all over, so that when I do further traveling in my own time, I can have points of contact during my travels. The goal was to make lifelong friends, and experience new experiences in Tokyo with them.

Yukata day at Sophia University. We boarded the booze cruise soon after

ACADEMICS: I would say the academics in Japan are easier, as their system has it so that middle and high school are intense, while university is more relaxed (much to the opposite of the United States).I did not want to take a heavy course load so that I can enjoy my time in Japan as much as I could, which I achieved. I even took another Japanese class, which met 5 days a week. I could have taken 2 business classes but I chose Japanese due to myself wanting further immersion.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: It makes me understand more that while every culture has different behaviors and mindsets, people are people at the end of the day. A German likes to party as much as a Brazilian, and a Japanese student likes to hang out and go to cafes like any other American, The world seems so different and vast, but we really are similar.

CAREER: I understood what mannerisms + behaviors are applicable to most people globally. I can just about converse with anyone from many different backgrounds. I figured out how to maintain global friendships.

PERSONAL GROWTH: So much of myself changed due to the study abroad program. I became more social than ever, and living on your own in a different country makes you a more independent individual. Creating friendships from scratch.

IDENTITIES: Being Asian American, especially half Japanese is an interesting dynamic in Japan. In Japan, to be truly Japanese, you need to be a part of the culture, to have grown inside it and understand the niche jokes of the generations.

FUTURE: It helped me a lot with independence and connecting.

TIPS: Talk to as much people as possible. DO Live in a share house with MANY other people. CONGREGATE in the lounge to make friends, and SAY YES to spontaneous adventures.

 

Ryan Huynh

Ryan Huynh

MAJOR: Business Admin/Business Analytics

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Okayama University, Japan

EMAIL: ryan.huynh02@sjsu.edu

BIO: I chose to study abroad for a variety of reasons. One of my main reasons for choosing to do this program was that I wanted to explore the world and do some soul searching in a sense. Doing things like living by myself, paying bills, and going to classes. Plus I get to learn how a country, such as Japan, operates and learn how to traverse it. Another reason why I choose to study abroad is that its been a life dream to study abroad in either a different state or country

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I’ve done a lot of traveling and volunteer projects which I would say greatly contributed to my leadership abilities. I’ve taken a class where we spent a weekend participating and helping the locals perform the Tottori, Misasa festival. During the festival we would help the locals with each and every part of the preparation of the festival. Such as, preparing the driftwood, making “ties”, and assisting fellow participants with what to do in order to finish the preparations of the festival in time. For traveling with friends I would be the main person figuring out how to get to a certain destination. My friends would give me places they wanted to go to and I would be the one to figure how and when to go. For example, the address, which train to take, how long, etc.

GOALS: My main goal for studying abroad was learning how the country of Japan operates, both in the city and in the rural parts of Japan. Which I think now I have a very good understanding of the history, culture, and why its the way it currently is. Another goal they I’m really glad I learned was how to learn and adapt to visiting/living in another country. Since I’ve never lived in another country, outside of USA, for very long I wondered if I would have been able to adapt.

At a shrine in Kyoto

ACADEMICS: Extremely different compared to how academics works in USA, in Japan the first term is rather easy. With many holiday breaks and 3 day weekends. However, their is no break between 1st and 2nd term plus the pacing of the classes drastically changed. Instead of one chapter per week it was more like 1 chapter every 2 days. The main courses I took was introduction to Japanese 1, Reading and writing 1, and Comparative politics for both terms, except for Comparative politics which I only took for 1 term.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: My experience has greatly impacted my perspectives of the world because of all the connections I made with people from Burmese, Europe, Korea, and Japan. I have a completely different view of the world compared to when I only really lived in the states. Like their are so many benefits that countries such as Japan or Poland that we Americans have to pay for, but at the same time there are many things that at least for me living in Silicon Valley that I’m really grateful for. Such as the power of the USD and very high minimum wages compared to the rest of the world.

CAREER: One of the main skills I learned during my study abroad experience is how to plan. For example, when planning a trip to Osaka, Tokyo, etc. in order for efficient use of time and Maximum fun.

PERSONAL GROWTH: The biggest impact that this experience had on me was a combination of finding what I wanted to do with my life and making meaningful connections with people abroad. Living by myself and making new friends have really made me realize what I am capable of and what I would like my future to look like.

IDENTITIES: Being an mainly international student really changed the way Japanese people would approach me. First I have a tattoo so its one of 2 things; I’m either a yakuza member or a foreigner so Japanese people find it hard to approach me.

FUTURE: Studying abroad has prepared to meeting new people from all over the world, regardless of gender, race, religion, or nationality. Plus I’ve learned how to travel into a completely new country and figuring out how to navigate any particular country with minimal issues.

TIPS: I would advise future Global Spartans to take a chance, it might be the best choice of your life. But do balance between School work and Having fun.

Jaime Elepano

Jaime Elepano

MAJOR: Software Engineering

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kyushu University, Japan

EMAIL: manueljaime.elepano@sjsu.edu

BIO: I’m a 5th Year Software Engineering Major who also does a lot of work in education/mentorship, working as a swim coach and a tutor with Peer Connections. In the early stages I explored studying abroad due to curiosity, partly because a friend at the time has told me about a similar experience. I’d always been interested in immersing myself in Japanese culture as more than a tourist and this was a prime opportunity to do so while keeping up with academics. As my program approached, I’d also hit a point in my life where I began to stagnate and so I used my opportunity to study abroad to reset and regain my passion for learning and exploration.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: As mentioned prior, I’ve worked various jobs in mentorship and guidance. I’ve worked for 2 years as a Swim Coach with Pacifica Sea Lions Swim Club, am in my 4th semester working with SJSU Peer Connections as a Peer Educator, and also worked with SJSU Research Foundation in the Kyushu University ELEP Program as a conversation partner. I also had the role of a Martial Arts Instructor at Shaolin Kenpo Karate for over 5 years where I worked with students ranging from as young as age 5 to as old as 60. I can confidently say I have diverse experience in a leadership role, both in a volunteer and professional capacity, working with people of various age ranges (Often College Age) as well as various cultural backgrounds.

GOALS: Once again echoing previous responses, my primary goal was shift of perspective. Both to help with my stagnation, as well as break out of my cultural bubble, I wanted to truly immerse myself in a new culture: speak the native language, converse with natives and explore their ways of thinking, adapt to a new way of life. I can say that my experience was truly eye opening as I not only learned about another culture, but deepened my appreciation for my own native and ethnic culture (American and Filipino respectively). By speaking to Japanese natives, I both heard their stories as well as gained insight from their perspective on my home cultures, allowing me to more intentionally evaluate my viewpoints. Furthermore, I gained additional insight speaking to international students from other cultures, some I never expected to experience!

I biked the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road, a 75 km route connecting the main Japanese Island of Honshu (at Onomichi, Hiroshima) to Shikoku (at Imabari, Ehime)

ACADEMICS: Due to language restrictions, my class selection was quite limited. I studied in the Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Innovation. I was able to explore subjects outside my primary major and it’s inspired some interesting ideas for future projects. In terms of strategies, the classes, due to meeting less and having content divided into more separate classes, I actually found my workload to be much lighter. If anything, it reinforced my confidence in the amount of experience I’ve accrued to this point. Because of this, I decided I wouldn’t settle for complacency and went above and beyond in my classwork, even working on some side projects to implement some of what I learned and enhance my experience abroad. In the past few days starting back with SJSU classes, this desire to go above and beyond has stuck with me as I’ve become even more focused and motivated to succeed in this last year. Beyond my academics, I’ve been hard at work to improve one of the on-campus clubs I am currently a part of. It’s been tiring work, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made in this short time.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: I’d say the most significant impact of my immersion has been my perspective on international relations. As mentioned, I have a newfound appreciation for both my home country here in the US, as well as my ethnic culture of the Philippines. Before now, I’d never had a huge interest in travelling, but now I want to visit a number of other countries, not to see sights, but see how their people live. From the standards of service, to the way people communicate, the stark differences between Japan and the US became clear to me. I also heard similar insights from my fellow international students from Germany, Thailand and Hong Kong, making me curious to visit these countries and gain firsthand experiences with these nuanced cultural differences.

CAREER: As my workload was much lighter, I was able to more intently reflect and plan. I got back into journaling and meticulous scheduling that revolved daily action items as well as daily reflections. The impact this had on my mood and my productivity was night and day and I hope to carry this over to my last year at SJSU. I also have a new sense of self confidence and independence. I went on numerous solo trips to other cities and constantly found myself spontaneously trying new things and making mistakes along the way. Rather than discouraging me, I found myself wanting to go on more adventures. The allure of the unknown awakened a sense of curiosity within me making want to constantly try new things and go on new adventures, despite the bumps along the road. Now I’m this new semester, when faced with a choice to settle for the comfortable option or try a new, uncertain option, I almost always choose the latter, relishing the chance for a new experience.

PERSONAL GROWTH: Almost everyone who’s welcomed me back has commented on how much “brighter” I am. As mentioned before, I have a new sense of confidence, with the difference from before my term abroad being so significant, many can see it from my face alone. A lot of the specifics have been covered in previous sections, but essentially, my self confidence has improved, as well as my appreciation for everyday life and new experiences. I find myself more inclined to throw caution to the wind in return for new insights and knowledge, we well as more motivated to strive for greater heights, both academically and personally.

IDENTITIES: In my last year, I haven’t done much in terms of my career (applying to internships and the like) due to other circumstances and have also felt inferior to many of my colleagues. Seeing how my skills contributed to the work I did abroad, as well as having the time and space to reflect on myself and my life in the present moment reinforced just how much experience I truly have, and helped reestablish that personal confidence in myself.

FUTURE:  Studying abroad boosted my self-confidence and was the first step to many opportunities. My newfound curiosity has opened new avenues for me, making me more inclined to seize opportunities that come my way rather than staying within a comfort zone. I grew so much from the experience, and my desire to learn more and more has made me a better person both personally and professionally. allowing for more growth that the already significant development that I’ve already gained up to this point.

TIPS:  As I’ve mentioned many times already, my self confidence has been greatly improved. I feel this is the first step to many opportunities. On that note, my newfound curiosity I feel will also open many more avenues, making me more inclined to not let good opportunities slip by in favor or staying within a comfort zone. Finally, my desire to learn more and more will certainly make me a better person both personally and professionally, allowing for more growth that the already significant development that I’ve already gained up to this point.

Josie Hammar

Josie Hammar

MAJOR: English/Creative Writing

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange –  University of Roehampton, England

EMAIL:  sisterjenny@jbear.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Isabella Dandoy

Isabella Dandoy

MAJOR: Journalism

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland

EMAIL: isabella.dandoy@sjsu.edu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Brown

Michael Brown

NAME: Michael Brown

MAJOR: Psychology

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland

EMAIL: Michael.j.brown@sjsu.edu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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