Wesley Kirchner '24

Program: Italy Semester

Major: Political Science

Minor: Theology, Ancient Mediterranean Studies

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

I wanted to see the world and Rome was the most interesting location to serve as a home base!

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

The way Italians and Europeans treat food is very inspiring. Food affects every part of our life and having a healthy relationship with healthy foods is hugely important in Italy!

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

Amazing! I learned so much and had a lot of fun. I’ve come home telling everyone I know to travel if they can.

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?

You get a much broader world view. You learn about others and about empathy. You also learn how to live as an adult, especially in the Rome program in the apartment and cooking, cleaning, etc on your own.

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

Don’t hesitate. Take advantage of this opportunity now, it’ll never come again.