Mechanical Engineering Study Abroad | Milan, IT and Madrid, ES

Milan, Italy and Madrid, Spain were where I lived. I visited many other cities in Italy on weekend trips

I heard about this opportunity when looking at colleges. The study abroad opportunities was one of the things that drew me to Auburn. Once I was accepted to Auburn, I learned more about the summer abroad business minor program. It really interested me and I wanted to go to experience a new culture and meet new friends.

Also, when else in my life will I get the opportunity to study abroad and live in Europe for 3 months?!

I started and completed a business minor while abroad. I took classes related to the world of business. I learned that there were a lot of complex systems and hard work of diverse individuals within a company that go into its successful operation.

 I am so glad I went on this trip not knowing anyone because it gave me the opportunity to get outside of my comfort zone and grow from it. So glad I met the friends I made on this trip because they are such amazing and kind hearted people that I would never have met otherwise.

I got to visit lots of different cities while abroad on weekend trips. I got to see some of the rich history and diverse cultures the world has to offer. I got the chance to walk on the arena of the Colosseum where gladiators once fought, wonder up and down the canals of Venice, and taste the rich chocolate in Switzerland.

 Also, being an environment where I stand out, not only physically, but culturally too, gives me a new appreciation for others who are brave enough to venture outside of their home countries and even live abroad. It can be uncomfortable to feel like you should not be somewhere, but to me, if you don’t feel this way, you are not in the right place. You should always be stricing to learn and grow more by doing what is uncomfortable for you.

 I absolutely loved all of the cities I visited and all of the food I got to try. While living in Milan, I think I ate chocolate croissant almost every day. One of my fondest memories was the chocolate croissants and cappuccinos my friends and I would stop for before classes. They were delicious!

A year ago, I couldn't have imagined being so far from home, especially in a new country. However, college has a way of changing you and helping you grow in ways you never thought possible.

 My advice is to embrace the uncomfortable because it will make you a stronger person. Don't be afraid to study abroad, even if you're going alone. You'll make so many new friends and have experiences you'll never regret. I believe growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone. I was very nervous about studying abroad alone, but I would never trade the experiences and friendships I gained for anything. Take advantage of the wonderful opportunity to study abroad because such opportunities are rare. Remember, many people would love to be in your shoes, so embrace these opportunities and make the most of them.