When you study abroad with IES Abroad, the world becomes your classroom. Our IES Abroad Ambassadors are sharing why they’re thankful for their experiences studying abroad, and it’s no surprise that academics are on their list.
Whether it was incredible interactions with faculty and coursework, inspiring course-related field trips, or becoming confident speaking a new language, our Ambassadors are grateful for the impact of the study in study abroad. Read their stories below:
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"While on the Business Studies Program in Milan, I discovered more about my interest in food studies. I was able to take a course about the history of Italian cuisine, which sparked my interest in global food study, sustainability, and the Slow Food movement. As a result, I have now applied to do a Master’s program in Gastronomic Studies in Italy, and in the future, I plan to work in the food and beverage industry." |
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"I'm thankful for study abroad because it has helped me solidify my passion for going to medical school and becoming a physician. Before traveling to Cape Town and gaining more than 50 hours of service learning while interacting with patients, nurses, and doctors in various hospitals, I realized that this type of environment is suitable for me." |
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"As a Latin American Studies and Environmental Science & Policy major, the Environmental Studies Program in Ecuador was perfect for me! My study abroad experience has allowed me to conceptualize the things I learn in class in a way that I never would have been able to do before." |
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"I've always wanted to study abroad in London, and I finally got the opportunity to do so while getting to study my major subject of choice. I was immersed in classes that peaked my interests in classic works of literature, history, and adventure around my favorite city all in the name of knowledge!" |
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"I’m thankful for studying abroad because of the way in which the experience has shaped my approach to my Senior Thesis. I am focusing on a political party in Germany, where I studied abroad, a focus which is really enabled by the cultural and political knowledge I gained during my time there." |
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"I am interested in pursuing museum studies, and to spend two months visiting the most amazing museums in Europe with local professors made me confident that I have chosen the right path for myself." |
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"Before studying abroad in Japan, I struggled to use the language, especially in an informal context with people my age. Studying abroad allowed me to communicate with Japanese students on a daily basis…and helped me think more on my feet with the language given a lot of the short quick conversations." |
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"One of the most rewarding aspects of my time abroad was being able to attend meetings at the European Commission, European Council, European Investment Bank, among many others. Not many students have the opportunity to attend these institutions, and being able to learn about them and meet with officials who work inside them every day helped me better understand what I was passionate about and interested in doing later in life." |
Follow along with our Grateful for Study Abroad series as recent alumni share the many incredible ways their study abroad and internship abroad experiences changed their lives.
- IES Abroad Ambassadors Reflect on Their Personal Growth from Studying Abroad
- IES Abroad Ambassadors Share How Study Abroad Benefited Their Careers
- IES Abroad Ambassadors Discuss Friendships Made While Studying Abroad
What will you be thankful for when you study abroad? Find out more about our programs, internships and the benefits of study abroad.
