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Kristen Susienka
| Hometown: |
Oconomowoc, Wisconsin |
| Program: |
University of Stirling |
| Location: |
Stirling, Scotland |
| Semester Abroad: |
Fall 2008 |
| Major: |
English |
Memorable Experience:
Definitely overcoming the language barrier. Despite speaking English,
the Scottish accent is quite thick, and at first is very difficult to
adjust to, especially given that there are many different dialects based
on where in Scotland a person is from. I remember the cottage I stayed
in had a cleaner come every week to clean the kitchen and bathroom. She
used words like "ken" and "hen," and as to this day I can't recall
understanding what she asked or said to me. After a while, the accent
does become easy to decipher, but it takes a while and just requires
some patience and listening.
Benefits of Studying Abroad:
Studying abroad was without a doubt the best experience of my
undergraduate career. Benefits of studying abroad include learning about
a different culture, increasing global awareness, traveling, and
meeting new people. Studying abroad has impacted me in many ways.
Personally, it presented new opportunities to learn about myself and
about others, to gain independence, and to make lasting friendships with
those I encountered. Academically, studying abroad had such an
impression on me that I decided to apply to graduate school in
Edinburgh, Scotland; I begin my studies there in September 2010. And
professionally, studying abroad increased my understanding of global
societies, deepened my interest in international studies, and enhanced
my communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Overall, it was
an experience that influenced my entire life and shaped me into who I
am today.
Advice & Tips:
Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Of course, be
sensible if safety is an issue, but don't be afraid to embrace your time
abroad as a learning experience and one of the best times of your life.
Learn from every new experience. Write about your experience, because
before you know it, the months abroad will have come to an end. You'll
want to remember what you were going through and how you were feeling
during those months in another country. Above all, be excited! At times
it might be a bit scary, but every new experience comes with worries,
and chances are you'll look back on times you were hesitant or scared
and say to yourself, "That wasn't scary at all."
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