Jessica Hillebrand

Jessica Hillebrand is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Austria.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.

After being abroad for four months, there are so many experiences from which I can choose. However, I was able to meet with a former St. John's student in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Hercegovina and experience the war-torn city from a native perspective. We stayed with a family of a current St. Ben's student for our time there during a backpacking trip to Eastern Europe. Of course this is only one of many experiences I had over the course of my time in Europe, but after staying there, Sarajevo is now my favorite city. The actual building in which I stayed was on the Serbian side of the front lines during the conflict in the early 1990's.

Why did you choose the program in which you participated? 

I chose to study abroad in Austria initially because it was the only program in a German-speaking country. Being a German and Political Science major, it fit perfectly into my four-year plan.

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

Salzburg, Austria is an amazing city in which I plan on living after my time at St. Ben's. After travelling to fifteen European countries during my stay in Europe, I now understand the great importance of studying abroad or experiencing another's culture. My experiences there have made me a better and more knowledgeable person and can be easily categorized as the best time of my life. My German language skills also improved immensely!

How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?

I stayed in an International Student dormitory during my stay in Salzburg, Austria. While there, I made many close international friends from all around the world, including : Austria, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Argentina, Kenya, and many others. Now I have a much greater understanding of the importance of global affairs. I can honestly say that my outlook on life in general is completely different from the time I left to right now.

What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?

Your study abroad group is a network of people that are in the same situation that you are. It is important and beneficial to know them. Johnnies and Bennies are great. That being said, it is also very critical to experience things on your own. Do not stay in your room. Go study in your host city! Weekends are the best time to get to know your city better or to travel around your host country or even Europe in general, if that is your continent. Every European country, in my experience has something unique and amazing to offer. Also, get to know the other students, international or local.