Student Stories

"With many new experiences came many new challenges, though. I struggled a lot with homesickness, but through calling my family and friends back home often, as well as having Messiah friends who studied abroad with me, I was able to push through those difficult times. Studying abroad pushed me out of my comfort zone in so many ways, and I learned that I am capable of more than I thought. I can navigate traveling to different countries, grow in my language proficiency, and problem solve quickly when necessary. I would highly recommend studying abroad to anyone who has the opportunity to do so. You will learn so many new things about people, culture, cities, and yourself!"

"My study abroad experience increased my self-confidence and strengthened my ability to be independent. I learned that I could travel solo and plan trips, and I succeeded in a highly independent academic environment."

"This was my first time being a foreigner in another country, and I had underestimated my listening comprehension and Chinese fluency when speaking with Chinese locals. There were many moments when I couldn't express my thoughts or fully grasp what was being asked of me, yet the majority of Chinese people were kind and patient. I realized that learning a language is not a linear progression, you will feel like you take three steps forward and then another two back. Being in China helped me understand what it’s like for foreigners living away from home. I never had to consider the challenges faced by foreigners because I lived in the U.S., but my time in China has made me more empathetic to these struggles and more patient with people learning English."

"The most surprising thing I learned about life in Paris, France, was how focused people are on living and experiencing life rather than participating in hustle culture. While academics are highly encouraged and competitive in France, working people maintain a healthy work-life balance. They take time to sit in the park, enjoy lunch at a café, and make space for travel. I found it inspiring that they prioritize their mental well-being rather than sacrificing it for the sake of survival."