We are pleased to announce the 2014 Ambassadors of the Year, Jacob Goldstein (Milan, Spring 2012) and Sarah Ziomek (Galápagos Islands, Fall 2011)!
Jacob is an alumnus of the Spring 2012 IES Abroad Milan program and has recently graduated from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. Jacob was drawn to study in Milan because of the city’s rich artistic heritage. While studying in Milan, Jacob took advantage of every possible opportunity to engage in the Milanese culture, from studying with a professional Milanese opera singer to developing a close friendship with his elderly Italian neighbor. Jacob remembers these experiences fondly, “When I look back at my semester abroad, I feel so blessed to have been influenced by so many cultural experiences”.
The Milan program caused Jacob to develop stronger intercultural communication skills, and led him to continue exploring cultural opportunities at home. As a result of his new found interest in intercultural communication, Jacob decided to seek out friendships with the international students on University of Illinois’ campus. “I seek opportunities every day to explore new cultures, and I believe much of this is due to my time abroad. My experience living in another country allowed me to see the world through new eyes, and I will continue to encourage others to do the same.”
After returning from Milan, Jacob sought out opportunities to share his experiences abroad with other students on his campus. Jacob has been extremely active in the IES Abroad Ambassador Program, participating in several Ambassador Program projects, including consistent communication with other students about studying abroad. Additionally, Jacob hosted several on-campus study abroad information sessions with different student organizations, and volunteered with his study abroad office to meet one-on-one with students looking to learn more about international education opportunities. Ultimately the Milan experience made Jacob passionate about intercultural engagement in everyday life, and led him to consider a career in international education.
Sarah is a Fall 2011 alumna of the IES Abroad Galápagos Islands program and has recently finished her undergraduate degree at Texas Christian University. Sarah chose to study in the Galápagos Islands given her interest in environmental studies, and the Spanish language. While in the Galápagos Islands, Sarah made it a priority to immerse herself in the local culture, and develop relationships with the people around her. “I wanted to experience new customs and traditions without preconceived notions of what Ecuador was supposed to be like.”
Through this mindset, Sarah was able to quickly adapt to the local lifestyle and find meaningful connections with the people living around her. “I realized this was what study abroad should be like. It is an opportunity not just to appreciate a new culture, but also to become a part of it.” Sarah’s semester in the Galápagos Islands helped her develop personal and professional skills for her future. “I learned skills key to thriving in any culture: how to adapt, communicate, be self-confident in new situations, and how to find common ground with those of conflicting viewpoints.”
Back home, Sarah quickly began sharing her experience with others through extensive participation in Ambassador Program projects, as well as working with Texas Christian University’s Study Abroad Office. Sarah helped in a number of ways including participating in study abroad fairs, advising students considering studying abroad in one-on-one meetings, and hosting information sessions on campus. “Being an IES Abroad Ambassador has been incredibly rewarding because it has allowed me to help other students conquer what is often the hardest part of studying abroad—making the decision to go. This is a decision that will have a lasting influence on their education, identity, and awareness of the world around them.”
IES ABROAD AMBASSADOR PROJECT
Jacob and Sarah are part of a group of more than 1,000 alumni volunteers known as IES Abroad Ambassadors. These outstanding students are selected by Center staff to become Ambassadors of the programs they recently attended. Their most significant contributions include responding to student questions via phone, email, and Facebook; composing packing lists; and attending study abroad events. To be considered for the Ambassador of the Year award, a nominee must serve as an Ambassador for at least one year and submit a 2-3 page essay.
