By Sarah Gilley, Co-Editor-in-Chief
Studying abroad is something so many people dream of, but few achieve. However, at Saint Leo University, the support and guidance students will receive is unmatched. Let me introduce myself. My name is Sarah Gilley, and I am one-half of the editor-in-chief team here at The Lions’ Pride Media Group. For the past fall semester, I have been abroad in Glasgow, Scotland, studying at the University of Glasgow.
While there are plenty of places to study, Scotland emerged as my prime choice as my distant family is from Scotland. Also, historical academia pairs nicely with my field of study, and the natural beauty of Scotland pulled me in. So, is studying abroad worth it? I am here to tell you that it is!
Academic and personal growth is something most only dream of. Do not get me wrong, I am a very introverted person who loves a good routine, but as my time at Saint Leo was ending, I knew I needed to get out of my comfort zone and explore the world while I still could.
The chance to interact with an entirely new academic system propelled me to study abroad in the first place. I have been able to take courses I could never have dreamed of, such as Old Icelandic Literature or Writing the English Revolution (do not be confused; this course is not on the American Revolution). While the different academics were academically and mentally challenging, they helped me prepare for when I go on to higher education in the future. There is nothing wrong with a little challenge.
The personal growth you will go through while abroad is entirely your own and what you make of it. The independence you will gain is unlike anything you have ever experienced; do not let that scare you away. You are entirely on your own in the best way possible. You decide your schedule, what to cook, what to do with your spare time, and where you want to travel.
Traveling is another wonderful thing about being abroad. While abroad, I have been able to travel to England, Wales, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and the Netherlands. If you choose to study in Europe like I did, the ability to travel from one country to the next could mean a 3-hour train ride to a 35-minute flight! I know it is cheesy to say, but the world is your oyster!
I recommend studying abroad through the Institute for Study Aboard (IFSA) program. All the programs offered at Saint Leo are through this program or International Studies Abroad (ISA). IFSA was the perfect choice for me as the entire time you are abroad, you have a set support system of on-site staff who are just a phone call away or a quick train ride! You can also go on excursions, trips, and activities with the people in your program.
Having the people in your program helps you by having a set group of friends and people going through the same experience as you. Through this program, I met some wonderful friends I cherish, and without them, I would not have enjoyed this experience as much.
All right, have I convinced you to study abroad yet? Studying abroad is something everyone could have the chance to do, so if you can, just do it. I am beyond happy for taking such a giant leap, and I hope you can do the same!
If you are interested in studying abroad, contact Paige Ramsey Hamacher, executive director of the Center for Global Engagement, at paige.ramsey.hamacher@saintleo.edu or check out the study abroad website here.
