Studying abroad: advice from our Study Abroad “ambassadors”
This year, 257 SPU students will study abroad in 27 countries. Helping students select a program, and providing guidance and advice, are two current SPU students who serve as Study Abroad “ambassadors.” We asked them about their experience studying abroad, and what advice their parents would give to other parents.
Alexis Humphreys
Alexis is a senior Political Science (International Affairs track) major who has studied abroad twice while at SPU — in Salamanca, Spain (July 2014), and in Manila, Philippines (December 2015).
What was your experience?
My first trip was a language- and history-based trip. I had the opportunity to take language classes with local teachers to improve my Spanish language skills. Additionally, my history class was an experiential learning class. We were able to visit all of the important historical sites we had read about. My second trip was a service-based trip. We worked with Kids International Ministries to learn about community development, while serving a community in need.
Why do you recommend studying abroad?
I recommend studying abroad because it forces you to grow as a human being. You become more resilient and independent — in a good way. You learn how to take care of yourself, which then helps you learn how to better take care of others. Travel makes us all better people, because we gain a compassion for those of different lives that we cannot gain by staying home.
What advice would your parents give to parents whose students want to study abroad?
Their biggest piece of advice would be, “Don’t be afraid!” Your children are strong, and you have taught them well. Your children will always come back to you, each time better than before.
Kalina Thornton
Kalina is a junior Political Science (International Affairs track) major at SPU whose study abroad adventure took her to Prague, Czech Republic (June–July 2015).
What was your experience like?
My experience abroad was more than I could have anticipated. It is hard not to have expectations going into an experience like this. But it definitely surpassed any expectations I did have. Not to say there were not some points that were challenging, such as learning the language and how to navigate the city, living in a new city, and having to adapt to a new routine. However, in every challenge or difficulty I saw growth in myself.
What advice would your parents give to parents whose students want to study abroad?
I think my parents would talk to other parents about the concern of safety. My parents were really concerned about how safe Prague would be. It is completely understandable for parents to worry when they send their child across the world. I think my parents would say that the fear of safety is real, and something to acknowledge, discuss, and look into. I looked into Prague a great deal with my mom, and we had multiple conversations about different scenarios. From a Christian perspective, though, I knew that God had called me to study in Prague. My parents knew it was something I had prayed about and they had prayed about. It wasn't something I had decided on a whim. Wherever God calls you is the safest place to be.
Upcoming Study Abroad info session
New Zealand
Thursday, March 3, 3–4 p.m., Marston 252
Learn more about study abroad opportunities.