On every study abroad program, Accent Global Learning scholarship winners write about their experience and share that with other students to relate to. In addition, SBCC has student bloggers who capture the moment out of sheer enjoyment. No matter why students write, we want to read! Below are the top three posts from past student bloggers.
Each trip, study abroad or solo, is different according to Film Studies Program student, Jeffrey Leaf. Check out this Rome and Paris Blogger's advice for first-timers planning a solo trip during your time studying abroad:
"Chief among these lessons would be to plan your trips well ahead of time and research your destination before you arrive. These two practices will not only save you a lot of money and stress but will also help you feel confident that you are making the most of your limited time in any place you chose to visit. They will also greatly improve your chances of having a safe journey. Simply knowing more about the area and the culture can make a visit one hundred times safer."
Our second piece of sage wisdom comes from 2018 Madrid blogger, Jenny Oslund. A student who came to SBCC Study Abroad Programs because her college didn't offer one:
"My advice for future participants is to always lean on the side of unfamiliarity when it comes to your experience abroad. Follow a routine that is true to yourself, yes, but more importantly allow yourself to really dive into the culture and society of the country in an authentic way. For example, don’t just visit the tourist spots, local spots are 10 times more rewarding... It’s easy to revert to what you’re used to, but the program will fly by so fast - better to have said ‘yes’ than to have regrets. On a lighter note, don’t plan on packing your whole closet - I guarantee that you will shop."
Take it from 2019 Paris Blogger, Jasmine Brewster: living in another culture for few months has a learning curve.
"It has not been easy adapting to the Parisian lifestyle, but I think I am starting to get the hang of it. I have caught onto some conversational French and have adapted to some social norms, such as not smiling at people as you walk by. I learned that this would give away that I am an overly friendly American, which I find humorous. I was genuinely nervous about integrating myself into the Parisian lifestyle because I haven’t traveled outside of the U.S. besides Mexico. Overall, I think I have done a really good job of adapting, learning, and accepting. This experience thus far has been nothing short of spectacular. I cannot wait to share the many adventures to come. Until next time."
Comments