Joseph Stoddart ’24
Program: London Semester
Major: Global Business Leadership
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?
I chose to study abroad and complete an internship because of the diverse and positive opportunities it offered for me as a business professional and person. It allowed me to travel, immerse myself into a foreign culture, and experience a foreign work environment.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.
A lasting experience I had while I was abroad was how easily I traveled within the United Kingdom. Public transportation also impacted my experience in many positive ways. It allowed me to explore new countries and experience different areas of European history and culture.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
My overall experience was very beneficial and positive. Some of my most fun and rewarding times were during my semester abroad in London. I explored and got the most out of London while also traveling to 5 different countries and 6 cities! I really enjoyed working in London; I worked for a sustainable kitchenware company that sourced their products from fallen palm leaves in India. I learned about the industry and gained insightful knowledge.
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 allowed me to step out of my comfort zone. Living in and acclimating to a foreign culture, exploring educational methods, and experiencing professional environments helped me to broaden my global perspective. It also opened my eyes into new and lasting experiences of travel to new countries and helped me to understand my own country more, too!
What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?
1. Immerse yourself into your internship as much as you can because it’s a great talking point in future interviews.
2. Take the time to fully immerse yourself into the city/country where you are studying abroad. Take the time to travel, but also get the most out of your host city and/or country.
3. Get to know your professors and put forth your best effort in your academics.