Terps Abroad Profiles

"I think the best thing to do is to be resilient in your beliefs and engage in constructive discussions with people from other countries with different viewpoints; we're abroad to learn more, after all."

"There are so many programs out there, and there is at least one that will work for everyone! I was told it wouldn't be possible to study abroad because of my pre-med requirements and double major, but I talked to the EA office and we found a summer program that fit into my schedule perfectly. "

"To adjust to the challenge I just embraced Nicaraguan culture while making a conscious effort to not compare it to American culture."

"Because ethnicity is such a huge part of the European population makeup, people will say "You don't look American." I would advise you to challenge their beliefs and respond with "Yes, I am American, and we are diverse."

"My best advice is that if you are given the opportunity to study abroad, take it!! I was very hesitant at first about going abroad, but it ended up being an invaluable experience I will never forget. I loved everything about my experience- from learning about the culture to getting to know the other students in my program."

"We experienced living in a village (San Jose de Uchupiamonas), which was the most heartwarming experience of the trip. The locals made us feel very welcomed and reminded us that we could call this place our home. I feel that we have left this trip with new mentors that we can call family."

"Within the first week, my classmates and I bonded over our interest in dancing and trying new foods. One day after class, my classmates took me to an arcade to dance and a night market to go to try different food stands."

"Be respectful of the culture, yet also very cautious and responsible. It’s easy to get caught up in all the fun, but remember why you went there and the image you’re representing."

"I am happy to say that I have a network of close friends from all over the country! The four months absolutely flew by and now I feel more independent, open-minded, and motivated to make travel and international experiences a lifelong interest."

"The hesitations of going abroad as minority group members due to safety, cultural reservations, or lack of seeing potential growth is common. However, I MUST urge you to do it!"