Major: Psychology

Minor: Sociology

Student Athletics: Swimming

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

I knew that when I decided to attend CSB+SJU, I wanted to study abroad. I choose this program because it allowed me to gain the study abroad experience while not missing out on any part of my swim season.

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

Living with a host family allowed me to gain a stronger cultural connection, while in Valladolid. You were able to see firsthand how families go about their daily lives and what the typical meals and practices are in Spain.

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

I really enjoyed my study abroad program. I am very happy I was still able to get the abroad experience without having to miss out an any part of my athletic season and would strongly recommend this program to everyone, but especially individuals who do not or cannot -miss an entire semester at CSB+SJU.

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?

Personally, I feel that I was able to strengthen so many qualities while abroad. I learned so much about a different culture, which allows me to have a stronger understanding of how others may live. It stretched my thinking in ways I never thought I could, and it gave me confidence in my academic, personal, and professional development. So many life skills were able to be learned during my time abroad and they are skills I will be able to take with me for the rest of my life.

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

If there is any ounce of you that wants to study abroad, do it! It is so worth it and you will get so much out of it. If you can’t study abroad for a full semester, look into short term or embedded programs, they are just as amazing, and you will still get the abroad experience!