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Matthew Semerad
Matthew Semerad is an Ambassador who studied abroad in London.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
I was fortunate enough to go to London around the time when the Pope was about to make a journey throughout the UK to promote unity and peace, stopping in England along the way. A group of us decided that it would be awesome to experience one of the public vigil services the Pope was taking part in, so we did...And guess what, we ended up being in the FRONT row, experiencing an enormous blessing as we participated in prayer with the Pope while sitting/standing in the best spot ever! We even had the chance to see him ride in his pope mobile, he ended up stopping literally 5 feet away from me to kiss a baby. HOLY SMOKES!
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I chose to study abroad because I felt like it would serve as a "once in a life time experience," and boy I was right! I wanted to understand what it was like to live and indulge in another countries traditions, cultures, and offerings. I had never been in another country before, and this study abroad experience would be an opportunity for me to "grow up" a little bit and become more independent. I chose the London program - One: Because they speak English! Two: Because London is a one of the biggest Fine Arts hot-spots in the world with world-class musicals, orchestras, etc and I am a music minor. Three: Because London fit into my four-year plan, offering exactly what I needed to graduate on time.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
One word, UNBELIEVABLE! Living in a foreign country for four months was the best experience of my life so far - besides being at my home (over breaks) enjoying life with my family of 9 who live in Nebraska. If I could do it all over again, I would, and that in itself tells you why this experience is so invaluable. Also, if you are up for a challenge, studying abroad is perfect for you. From living situations to flight statuses to grocery store selection to driving on the wrong side of the road to transportation strikes I went through many challenges, but they only made me stronger.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
This trip has affected me in numerous ways, but most importantly I feel like I have grown up immensely. I have become more and more independent traveling from Germany to England to Spain to Portugal and to France. UNBELIEVABLE experience. Because I went to London, an English speaking city, I was able to focus more on myself than the words I was speaking. I was able to focus on living life and experiencing things only a few people experience. This London experience affected me greatly, and I am so blessed for having it. I also think that the relationships developed with my peers will be everlasting..What a wonderful group of people I shared this experience with.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
All I have to say is take this opportunity as a blessing. Really dive right into the experience and don't hold back. If you find a cheap train ticket to go to Paris, buy it! If you see a menu item in a restaurant that you are unfamiliar with, order it! If you hear a word or phrase accustom to the culture you are living in that you don't recognize, look it up and if appropriate, use it! This is your opportunity to live a dream and really experience the "unexperiencable!" Don't hold back and have fun.