Jasmine Nethals

I studied abroad in Strasbourg, France from January 2013-May 2013. I chose France because I wanted to strengthen my French speaking skills and totally immerse myself in the French culture. I lived with a native host family while I was there and needless to say I achieved both of my goals! I experienced homesickness around the second month of being there and overcame it by regularly talking to my family and friends through Skype. Being abroad changed my perspective on life because it allowed me to see that I take a lot of luxuries that we have in America for granted. I also learned a great deal about racism, sexism and tensions between different religious communities there. My experience was life changing and I would encourage everyone to study abroad somewhere at some point in their life.

Quamisha Desroches

My study abroad experience was unique in the sense that I did not receive college credit, but I gained an unforgettable experience. I had the privilege of serving as an Intern at Oprah Winfrey's Leadership Academy for Girls in the spring of 2012. Being abroad for that semester completely pulled me out of my comfort zone and opened my eyes to a world that television simply could not justify. The food, music, people, and weather were all new concepts to me- but I embraced and learned to love them all just the same. I went to beaches, concerts, schools, markets, mountains, and malls. I gained lifelong friendships and sisterhoods. I loved, grew, learned, advocated, laughed, cried, smiled, gave, received, and traveled. Studying abroad in South Africa pushed me forth into my purpose, and for that I am forever grateful.

Leornard Horne

Boarding the plane to Buenos Aires, I was wide-eyed and naïve, elevated yet petrified. I hadn't been acquainted with the culture, and I knew I'd be a visible minority there. Moreover, it wasn't my first choice for study abroad (given my circumstances at the time, it was my only choice), and my handle of Spanish was laughable. The fears I tallied overshadowed my excitement to immerse myself in what I would soon discover is an enchanting country with an irresistible culture and remarkable history. On the long flight over, I met the most endearing Argentine family: that experience gave me a new lease on life —dread was replaced by a gleaming hope. Upon disembarking the plane, far out from my comfort zone, I firmly decided to embrace the rare chance to study—to live—abroad. And live I did: whether it was roaming the streets of the historic Recoleta neighborhood where I boarded, socializing with and admiring the work of creatives in Palermo, or studying Castellano with my ebullient Argentine tutor (whom I sought out upon arrival), I lived. I danced. I ate and I drank. I fell in love. I will never forget my experience studying abroad in el Cono del Sur; and I will carry those moments with me for the rest of my life.