Emergency NumbersPhone Book (Must be on-campus or have a valid network account)
Samantha Kieser
Samantha Kieser is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Rome and Greece.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
When we were on a weekend trip to Cinque Terra we randomly got invited to someone's birthday party. Even though they did not know us they were still so open and welcoming to all of us. It was interesting to me that even though they live half a world away from us there party was not much different than ours in the United States. They liked lots of food and to celebrate with friends and family. It was great to see such similarities in two different cultures.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I wanted to study abroad in order to learn about and gain knowledge about a different culture and experience how other cultures lived. I also wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and grow as an individual. I choose the Roman-Greco program because I wanted to experience two different cultures. Another reason I choose it was because of all the history and art that both Rome and Athens have to offer.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
It's hard to put my experience into words because incredible and amazing don't even come close to describing it. I would have to say a once in a lifetime experience that still to this day feels like I dreamed it all. I made some extremely strong bonds with people that I cherish deeply. I grew more in the four and half months abroad than I have my whole college career. I am more independent and accepting of others and have a travel bug that I have never had before.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
This incredible experience has made me more open to people that do not have the same background as I do. I want to learn about people's history and life stories that come from different cultures. This trip has also made me more independent. I'm not afraid to try new things on my own anymore. Through independence and being more accepting I have grown as an individual and want more out of life. I have higher goals and dreams for myself. After this trip I have noticed that I want to explore new things and places not only in the United States but around the world as well.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
I would have to say embrace every single day of your experience. Even the days were you have nothing to do and just go to the grocery store or walk around your neighborhood. The little experiences are what make your trip so special. Another thing is to not only have a check list of places you want to see or things to do but take time and actually experience the culture. Take time to talk to locals, eat some incredible food, or just people watch. My last piece of advice is to not be afraid to get lost. Some of my favorite memories are when we went exploring without a map and just went. You will experience something different every time and eventually you will find your way back.
Do you have questions about studying abroad in Italy and Greece? Email Samantha at slkieser@csbsju.edu.