By Brianna Wallen
News Editor
Interest in studying abroad drew a crowd to the Adanti Student Center Ballroom, where the Office of International Education hosted its annual fair on Nov. 18.
Maps, brochures and travel swag filled the room as guests learned about international internships, spoke with faculty leading upcoming trips and connected with representatives from partner schools.
“I got to see everything and learn about the different opportunities,” nursing major Elise Ryan, a junior, said. “It is important to experience different cultures and see new people.”
Ryan said the event helped her understand how studying abroad can expand her perspective and experience as a student.
“You get to immerse yourself in experiences that you could never have at home,” Ryan said.
Computer science major Alison Escobar, a junior, echoed this by stating that exploring new places and engaging with different communities can shape both personal and academic growth.
“People should take any chance they get to have new experiences,” Escobar said. “You get to meet new people, get out of your comfort zone and learn new skills you can’t gain in a classroom.”
The event gave those who are interested in traveling an opportunity to hear directly from peers who had already taken the leap.
Social work major Alyssa McGregor, a junior, was one of those students representing the Liverpool table.
Fresh off a semester abroad, McGregor described it as one of the most eye-opening experiences of her college career.
“It was a very reflective time. I got to learn about myself but also to embed myself in these different cultures,” McGregor said.
While traveling to multiple countries like France, England, Portugal, Romania and Spain, McGregor said each destination felt welcoming in its own way.
“It’s very accessible to get around since everything is in walking distance. All of the people are very kind and welcoming to you,” McGregor said.
For students who may be hesitant to study abroad, especially students of color, McGregor shared her experience to offer some reassurance.
“I know it can kind of be a little bit scary with being in Europe, but overall, with my experience in the UK, I didn’t experience any racism at all,” McGregor said. “Everybody’s very welcoming to people of all different ethnicities, backgrounds and abilities, which was something that is so beautiful to me.”
For those who already booked their tickets, the fair inspired excitement for upcoming trips.
Public health major Evie Mathanool, a junior who will study in Prague in the Czech Republic next semester, said that studying abroad allows students to understand the world through a broader lens.
“I think traveling gives people the chance to experience life outside of the bubble they are living in,” Mathanool said. “Seeing how different countries go about life enriches your worldview and gives you a better understanding of yourself and how the world works.”
For Mathanool, studying abroad is less about checking off destinations and more about experiencing the world beyond campus.
“I’m looking forward to meeting people, hearing new languages and learning about different upbringings and customs,” Mathanool said.
After undergoing the study abroad process, Mathanool also revealed a common misconception that can deter students from participating.
“I hear a lot that studying abroad is very expensive, and that’s a big misconception because I’m paying more here than studying abroad,” Mathanool said.
Along with showing how accessible studying abroad is, the fair also connected domestic students with international students already studying at the university.
Psychology major Esme Rippon, a junior, who started her first semester in America in August and is originally from Liverpool, said she encourages students to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.
“Liverpool has so many opportunities to meet new people and try new things, and studying abroad here has helped me see how much the world has to offer,” Rippon said.
