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Daniel Elenz
Daniel Elenz is an Ambassador who studied abroad in India.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
Oh, how can I pick just one! Every day in India was just as exciting as the last, and seemingly every moment provided a learning experience. In particular the host family aspect of the trip will leave a lasting impression. I was fortunate enough to live with the nicest, most generous and considerate people I have ever met. I know we will be friends for life and have a connection few can say they have.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I wanted to study abroad because it was an exciting opportunity to do something I had never done and learn new things about a place I knew little about. The India program in particular appealed to me because of the challenges and excitement it presented. Since it was a new program I had the opportunity to be a part of the pioneer program to a country on the other side of the world. That was way cool!
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
Even though it was fun and exciting diving into this cultural that is India without much previous knowledge of the country it would have been nice to talk to some people that have been there before leaving. I feel that I would have a lot to share with the prospective traveler's just about everyday life in India, since it is so intensely different there. I would definitely tell them that it was a challenge for me personally, that I was sick for weeks at a time from the food, that I did have a lot of trouble with the language barrier, but also that it was the time of my life and I wouldn't change a thing about my trip.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
This trip has literally changed my life. I knew going in that it was going to be an eye-opening experience and that I would learn a lot but I never imagined it would be this great! I learned so much about the Indian people, their way of life, the country itself, and countless other things. My world and perspective broadened greatly from this trip. I also learned so many things about myself and still am constantly reminded of India. I find myself comparing things here at home and learning still as I experience reverse culture shock.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
I would advise future SABRO students to challenge themselves while abroad. I am very happy with the way I handled things in India and learned from difficult situations. I would tell them to get the most out of the experience that they possibly could. To squeeze as much juice out of their trip as possible. I found that everything I did was beneficial to my experience there, even if it was as small as going across the street to the market for a fruit, I still remember being thankful that I did. I would also tell them to have fun and be respectful to others' cultures. To be conscious of their actions as they could be taken a different way in a foreign country.
Do you have questions about stuyding abroad in India? Email Daniel at djelenz@csbsju.edu.