Emma Schuele ’26

Program: Austria Semester

Major: Psychology

Minor: Sociology

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?

I chose to study abroad because of how highly it was encouraged when I came to CSB. Everyone I met asked if I was interested and told me it was the best part of their college experience. I knew early on this was something I wanted to pursue. With a sociology minor, I recognized the importance of traveling to a different country and experiencing that culture. Expanding my worldview and understanding was something very important to me. Additionally, I chose Austria because right out of high school I took a school trip that stopped in Salzburg for a day. I immediately fell in love, so when I saw CSB offered a program there, I knew it was fate. As someone who loves to be outside, I was drawn to the mountains and nature of Austria. From my research, there was so much to do in and around the city. I prefer a more rural setting, so Salzburg stuck out to me more than Rome or London.

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

I went to St. Rupertkirtag, which was a festival for St. Rupert. He is the patron saint of Salzburg and was a bishop in the city as well. This was an amazing experience because I was able to see how the city celebrated this day. There were dozens of food vendors and people selling clothes, etc. I was able to wear my dirndl and see everything this festival had to offer. This was truly an amazing experience because this was one of the first things I was able to do while abroad, so it made a very lasting impression.

Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

Studying abroad truly changed my life. I learned so much about myself and what I’m capable of. I learned how to fully embrace my independence as well as how independent I can be. Not having a meal plan forced me to embark on something I’ve never had to do before. Additionally, taking classes in a foreign country was a great experience because it forced me to be flexible and adapt to the different teaching styles. As a sociology minor, it was also very beneficial to have this experience because I was able to fully embrace and experience a culture different from my own.

What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?

The best advice I have to offer for studying abroad would be to make sure you experience the place you’re living in. Being in Europe, many people just see it as a way to get to other places and don’t bother exploring the country and city they are in. I loved the countries I visited and the things I experienced in all of them, but I chose Austria for a reason. Therefore, I made sure I had plenty of time to explore Salzburg and the surrounding cities. This can be a great way to A) save money since you won’t be traveling far distances, B) explore the city and culture you’re living in, and C) give yourself a break and a chance to stay at home for a weekend. Traveling and planning trips can be very tiresome and stressful, so carving out time to relax is very important.