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John Berquist
John Berquist is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Spain.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
I was able to make a friend who I see as someone I will stay in contact with the rest of my life. Not only did I learn an incredible amount of Spanish from her, but I learned what it is like to be someone who is my age living in Spain. The class room cannot teach what its like for an individual just based on their age alone; sure, it can tell you current popular trends and such but it really takes the one on one conversations that occur at the local tapas bar to learn what its like to live in another culture and what it truly means.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
Study abroad was something I wanted to do in college before I even arrived here. In fact, it served as a large factor in the choosing to attend St. John's. Other than the obvious answer of every one telling me that I should go abroad, the programs we offer are simply a one in a lifetime opportunity that can't be passed up. The most important reason for me was I knew that aboard was where I would grow the most in my quest for a mastery of a foreign language. Attending foreign language class every other day for 70 minutes is great and all, but living somewhere where every door you walk through will continue to impose and immerse said language on you is the best way to achieve the mastery I desired.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
I continue to fail in finding a word the express how much fun and worthwhile studying abroad is so I normally just resort to "fantastic," "amazing," and "best semester ever." These words are not inaccurate; however, they don't really reach the pinnacle of my experience abroad.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
The trip has affected me in multiple positive ways. I have become a more mature person through this process and am surprised at how much I have grown in the time frame of 4 months. I am someone who is now more tolerant, open to new ideas, and less set in my previous ways. I have continued to see how this has benefited me since I have returned home. Additionally, I have become very skilled at using public transportation and am more adventurous and confident if I am in a foreign city. I learned the importance of getting to point A from point B, especially in the adult world.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
My advice for students is four fold. 1. I don't recommend going abroad unless you are willing to allow for almost everything in your life to be let go. Don't let anything hold you back, don't have an obligation to run to the computer every night to Skype someone, instead, befriend the people you are with and the millions of new people who are surrounding you. 2. The more you immerse yourself, the more you will enjoy being where you are. Eat their food, drink their drinks, sing their songs, and maybe even think how they think. Do not try and be an American living in another county, try to see what it's like being a citizen or native of the country you are in and you will really get an experience that is unique. (Also, indulging in McDonalds makes it that much better). 3. Talk to people. Don't be shy. Not everyone may respond favorably to you but the odds say somebody will. Those are the people who are your golden ticket to further enhancing you experience. After you meet the first one, you will see what I mean. 4. Like soccer. Chances are, it's the country's national sport and it's a lot more fun when you know what's going on and can join in on their joy and/or agony.
Do you have questions about studying abroad in Spain? Email John at jtberquist@csbsju.edu