Shannon studied in Spain on the CIEE: Seville, International Business and Culture program in the Spring of 2016.

If you could give only one reason, why would you suggest other students study abroad?

Study abroad is a chance to open your eyes. Getting outside the United States to experience a different culture, language and way of life is an invaluable experience.

If you could go abroad again, what would you do differently?

Make sure you understand the course equivalency process BEFORE going abroad. It saves you and your adviser a lot of emailing and confusion. Also make sure to stay in a homestay with a local family rather than friends. You will be able to perfect the native language much more quickly.

What specific factors influenced your decision to go abroad?

I took a gap year before attending college in Fall of 2013. I loved the experience but was looking forward to taking courses that counted towards my major. I also love traveling in general and wanted to experience as much of Europe as possible.

What concerns/fears did you have about studying abroad, and how did you overcome them?

I was worried about traveling alone (I arrived in Spain a week before my program started), money management as well as learning the local language. I have tips and tricks for all three but when traveling alone, it is important to be open to new things and confident. Money management is made A LOT easier with an excel spreadsheet and monthly budget goals and as for learning the local language, make sure you make local friends/join a club/gym and live in a host family rather than housing with other American students.

What was it about your program specifically that fit your personal goals over other programs?

My program had business and international relations classes that counted toward my major. It also had planned (FREE) trips that I loved and allowed me to see more of Europe (specifically Spain) and Africa.

How have you used the skills you learned abroad now that you are back; either in job searching, or in other activities?

My confidence and people skills have increased significantly since my abroad experience. It is an amazing conversation add in during an interview and also allows you to bond with other students who have also studied abroad.

Did you participate in any service projects while on your program? How did that enhance your study abroad experience?

During my study abroad experience I was able to tutor English to three young boys. They were hilarious and we had so much fun during out lessons. They were even able to help me with my Spanish when we had difficulties discussing topics in English.

What experiences did you have while studying abroad that you feel you could not have had if you had stayed at Penn State?

While abroad I was able to travel to Italy, Portugal, Morocco and the UK (all while staying in budget)!!! Obviously, this is something that never would have happened if I had remained in Penn State. I also became fluent in Spanish while abroad and made friends who I know I will be in contact with for a long long time.

What advice would you give to outbound study abroad students to help them make the most out of their study abroad experiences?

Leave any perceptions of your home country at home. No matter what people will tell you, you have to see and live it for yourself. Also be outgoing and try new things!!

Share an experience where you interacted with someone in your host culture in a way that taught you something.

I was lucky enough to find a Crossfit gym while abroad. Every day for 5 months I rode my bike 20 minutes to hang out/workout with people who did not speak a word of English. It was awkward at first, but slowly I was able to become part of the group. Before leaving, I was messaging daily in the group text, attending gym functions around Spain and going out with Spanish speakers! They even had a goodbye party!