"Everywhere I went, either to a new country or to a discoteca, I made friends with new people. It was a wonderful feeling to learn that I could interact with so many people from various areas and backgrounds with ease."

"I used to think that studying abroad was so out of reach for me. It was never even a possibility in my mind until I saw a poster for this trip and read more about it. It was perfect as it was a short term summer course, meaning it wasn't a commitment of a whole fall or spring semester, which I really liked."

"By being on my own in a new country, my communication skills, adaptability, and time management grew exponentially. Similarly, by being able to work at a comprehensive internship, I honed my hard skills in various computer programs."

"Studying abroad sounds daunting in many ways, but it does not have to be. Many people are deterred by the myth that studying and living abroad is expensive. This is a myth-- studying abroad can be just as expensive as tuition, and even less! With a multitude of programs and countries, this experience is accessible to all."

"Getting to know people with a completely different worldview is not only fascinating, but also curiosity inducing. I did a group project with students from Norway, Mexico, and Scotland, heard the Scottish perspective on Brexit, and debated politics with my French roommate."

"My host family was amazing and showed me that complete strangers can become family."

Leaving the US to go study abroad in Japan was exhilarating because it was the first time I was alone and without any relatives nearby.

"Observing different cultures helps you to practice being more open minded. It's a skill we all need to have."

"As a public policy major, my advice is to take any and every opportunity you can get to learn about other cultures and perspectives... It was eye opening to see how people from different backgrounds responded to my questions and learn about how they thought their home country compared to the US. "

"I learned how to communicate with people when words failed me, and I learned a great deal about patience with myself and with others."