How did you decide which country/program to study abroad in?
I chose to study in Portugal because my parents had visited the country before and talked about the vibrant culture. They talked about how every town felt like a tight-knit community, with people being super welcoming and eager to share the stories behind their cities. Hearing their experiences made me want to see it for myself.
What were you excited about and/or nervous about before your program?
I was nervous about traveling to another country alone since I’d never done it before. But my professors really eased my nerves. They did a great job preparing us for solo travel and made sure we had everything we needed
How do you think the intersections of your identities and values impacted your study abroad experience?
As a Black woman, I’m always mindful that I may not fit in everywhere I go, so that was on my mind as I traveled through a predominantly white European country. However, I never felt out of place while I was in Portugal. My advice for future students is to seek supportive communities and be open to learning from both the highs and lows of the experience.
Could you articulate one personal/professional/academic goal you achieved while abroad?
One academic goal I achieved was learning about the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake. I learned that it wasn’t just a natural disaster; it sparked scientific curiosity, triggered geopolitical shifts, influenced philosophical debates, inspired architectural innovations, and had a huge impact on the culture and art of the time.
What advice would you like to give to future study abroad students?
I’d encourage students to really embrace the differences in culture, language, and lifestyle. It’s important to approach new experiences with curiosity and a willingness to learn, even if things feel unfamiliar or challenging.
What do you wish you knew before you studied abroad?
I wish I had known how important it is to pack appropriately for the local culture, as dress expectations are quite different in Europe.
