Making their way around the world, many Rosary alumnae have taken the opportunity to study abroad during their time in college. A few graduated Royals are abroad this semester, so let’s see how their experience has been so far!
Opposed to her small college town in Massachusetts, Eliana Guillen ’23 is experiencing a big city in London, England! Eliana explained why she chose London as her new home for the semester: “Being in a bustling, international city was important to me for the cultural and academic opportunities. I wanted to continue to take classes for my major and be fully immersed in student life.”
Although she is in London, Eliana has been able to connect with people from all over the world. She has enjoyed meeting new people from different cultures. Eliana shares how being exposed to new friends from around the world has been: “Through these friendships, I have picked up on a few of their local terms/slang. Exchanging phrases and learning about each other’s experience has made my time here more meaningful.” While London is not known for its food, Eliana said that she has also enjoyed the variety of cuisines that London brings together because of its diversity.
Eliana shared some valuable advice she wish she knew beforehand: “One thing I wish I knew before studying abroad is how much you have to save up for your year or even semester abroad. I have been slowly learning the art of budgeting, which I think everyone should really look into before coming abroad.” This is some great advice for anyone considering studying or even just travelling abroad one day. Sharing some more advice, Eliana talked about the importance of being open-minded, planning early and preparing for growth. She also shares that not being afraid to go up to people and starting conversation can be one of the most valuable parts of studying abroad.
Lastly, she shared, “Studying abroad is not only about academics, but it is also about being able to learn how to navigate the world and interact with people who come from different backgrounds.” She discussed how her classes are full of exploring the city and culture. As for any future study abroad plans, Eliana explains that she is looking forward to going to Spain next semester and being able to discover the similarities and differences between Spain and Mexico (which is where her family is from)!
Enjoying the rich history and delicious pasta, Sydney Hastert ’25 decided to take her education to Italy this semester! When asked about her favorite part so far, Sydney shared, “My favorite aspect of studying abroad so far has been walking around the city and experiencing the customs of a completely different lifestyle.” Apart a different way of life, many of her classes incorporate the amazing sights and history in Italy. Sydney has been able to take her learning outside of the classroom: “In my research, genre and context class, we read Dante Alighieri’s work and then walked to the house he was raised in.” It must be so cool to have the whole city as your classroom.
Reflecting on what she knew then, Sydney explained how there is nothing she wishes she knew beforehand; she enjoyed going along for the ride and discovering things as she went with no expectations. Something Sydney found unexpected was the amount of tourism. She discovered that her street is a busy one: “My residence specifically is on a very busy street with many popular restaurants, so I have to walk down a few streets for a more peaceful experience.” Sydney is just minutes away from some beautiful stops, including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Piazza Della Signoria.
Sydney advises that anyone interested in studying abroad should do so in order to get the once-in-a-lifetime experience, grow in empathy, be exposed to different cultures and learn how to adapt to new and uncertain environments.
Daniela Arias ’23 is also studying abroad in London, which is a city she has always wanted to visit. One thing Daniela has enjoyed most is the contrast between L.A. and London: “Unlike L.A., London is incredibly walkable and accessible. I can tube to a different part of the city in under 20 minutes, and it’s a game changer.” This opportunity allows her to live each day to the fullest by exploring different parts of London. Similar to the experiences of Sydney and Eliana, Daniela has been able to learn by travelling. She notes how her professors are more casual in the classroom and emphasize the importance of going on field trips around the city.
One unexpected thing that Daniela discovered was how being abroad took some getting used to; at first, it felt more like a vacation to her than a long-term experience. However, Daniela does share that once you realize the length of your stay, “it fills you with excitement, nerves and a bit of doubt, but you know that it’ll all be worth it in the end.”
Daniela also gives anyone wanting to study abroad this advice: “Don’t be scared of what you don’t know. There’s a joy in being in a totally new and foreign place. There’s an excitement to that uncertainty. It makes your day fresh, new and keeps you on your toes while abroad.” Any new experience can be scary at first, but don’t let fear stop you from exploring. Because Daniela is planning to graduate on time, she says that she is not looking to study abroad again but would love to return to London one day for work if given the opportunity.
Studying abroad is an opportunity that many colleges and universities offer, so consider taking your academic journey across the globe! It seems like studying abroad has had a terrific impact on these Rosary grads so far. We hope they continue to enjoy their experiences around the world.
