Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is one of the most personally and professionally rewarding opportunities a student can do to better their experience as a student and prepare themselves for their future career. As a freshman, I have heard this numerous times from parents, friends, faculty, professors, and upper classmen. It just can’t be said enough, studying abroad is a unique experience that not only helps individuals grow as people, but in every aspect of our lives while at the same time allowing us to better understand the world we live in. I am extremely excited to have the opportunity as an undergraduate to study abroad and believe it will have a huge impact on my life as a student as well as in my future career. Being from a small town in southern Minnesota, I have never left the continent or even the country and believe this experience will open my eyes to all the opportunities the world has to offer.
After spending a semester learning about the Chinese language, food, gardens, and many other aspects of the culture I am excited to learn about China more as we travel abroad in just a matter of a few days. The HORT 4000 course has helped guide me, as learning a new culture and language can overwhelming at times. By knowing this information I will be able to focus on more specific information about the landscape and way of life instead of learning the basics. It has provided me with an understanding of what to expect upon arrival and allow me to get the most out of the experience.