Major: Communication arts & sciences
Minor: Spanish, French
Hometown: Gettysburg

How did you learn about this opportunity?

I went to an PSU Education Abroad Fair to learn more about studying abroad in a French-speaking country. There, I got to speak to several people in the program.

Tell us a little bit about your experience.

My experience so far has been wonderful. It is more than anything I could ever imagine. Life in France is so different from that in the United States, yet living her has been so enlightening. I have had the opportunity to learn a lot about the French culture and traditions, as well as the language of course. I have also had the chance of traveling often, which has helped with my social skills. I would definitely recommend studying abroad to someone that is looking into this option as it has so much more to offer than just taking classes in a different country.

Studying abroad has taught me a lot about myself and who I am as a person.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Academically, I can say that I have learned a lot about the French education system. I have enrolled in classes that I do not think I would have taken back in the US, which has really helped with my French. The classes I am currently taking are very differently taught to classes in the US. Teaching techniques vary from class-to-class, but I believe French professors, overall, have a different style of teaching. The classes themselves are going well. I think my classes are a bit difficult at times, but what would life be without a challenge?

What are your career goals and plans?  How did this experience impact them?

As far as my career goal, I plan to finish at Penn State and head to law school, although I am not certain as to what type of lawyer I would like to be. I can absolutely say that this experience impacted me on a whole new level. I have worked on my social skills, bettered my writing, and overall I have had the chance to learn a bit of how France works politically and educationally, which is completely different to the American system.

Would you recommend this experience to other Liberal Arts students?

I would definitely recommend studying abroad to other Liberal Arts students. Studying abroad not only helps with academic goals, but it gives you an experience like no other. Studying abroad has taught me a lot about myself and who I am as a person. I also had the chance to meet several students from all over the world, which is great to have those kinds of connections.