Kathryn Ebben

Kathryn Ebben is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Spain.

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

When I was studying in Segovia there was a celebration in a little village nearby. This festival celebrated the power of women and had been occurring for hundreds of years. I was able to eat traditional food, listen to traditional music, watch traditional dancing, and see traditions that had been occurring for hundreds of years. I enjoyed it so much because it was such an authentic part of the Spanish culture. Since it was in a small town, it was not being put on for tourists, but simply as a festival that celebrated the heritage of the place.

Why did you choose the program in which you participated?

I wanted to be able to speak Spanish since I am a Spanish major. I had also traveled to several countries in Latin America, so I wanted to be able to experience a different culture. Also, a spring program worked better into my academic schedule than a fall one.

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

My study abroad experience allowed me to grow as a person by reaching outside myself and learning about new cultures, peoples, and places. I have expanded my horizons because of what I have seen, done, and experienced. Studying abroad has instilled in me an awe and an appreciation for the world around me. I learned so much that I can't help but share it with those around me!

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

Because I studied abroad in Spain, I am more aware of the world around me. Before studying in Spain, I was fairly ignorant of what was happening in the rest of the world, but while I was over there, I began to watch the news and learned about different types of government and political systems as well as foreign affairs.

What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?

Take advantage of every opportunity you have. This is the one chance you'll get to have this Study Abroad experience, so get involved, meet the locals, try new food, join a club, go sightseeing, and immerse yourself in a new country!