Liberal Arts Major: International Politics
Other Major: Master's in International Affairs; Security and Risk Analysis
Minor: Chinese Language
Hometown: Yardley, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2022

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

During the Fall 2022, I completed an exchange program with the National University of Singapore. This experience abroad was only my third time leaving the United States, and it not only confirmed my love of travel, but introduced me to new cultures, friends, and experiences that I will never forget.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Academically, this experience challenged me to adapt to a new culture, learning environment, and teaching style while keeping up with and maintaining rigorous coursework with high standards. Facing these new obstacles during my fifth year allowed me to rediscover my passion for my studies and find new ways to teach myself concepts and succeed in the classroom.

"Facing these new obstacles during my fifth year at Penn State allowed me to rediscover my passion for my studies and find new ways to teach myself concepts and succeed in the classroom."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

My time in Singapore was eye-opening regarding my studies in International Affairs and International Politics. The Republic of Singapore is 57 years old, much younger than the United States, and many countries in the Southeast Asian region have similar histories. I was able to adapt my studies to a global perspective while gaining a better understanding of the impact of the United States across Southeast Asia.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I was lucky to be awarded enrichment funding from the College of the Liberal Arts for this experience. This funding helped to enable me to financially afford my study abroad, and I am deeply grateful for it.