Class Year: 2020
Hometown: Bedford Hills
Global Study Semester: Fall, 2018
Programs: The University of Wollongong, through Arcadia University
Major: OMS
Minors: Business, English
Activities on Campus: Smart Women Securities, the Business Club, Marketing Club, Chi Omega Sorority
My story from Global Study: I had originally planned on going to Florence, Italy, when I ran into some friends who enticed me to come watch some videos with them of the most beautiful landscape I had ever seen. They said it was Australia, and that they were looking for one additional roommate. I quickly decided I should fill that spot. I promptly returned to the Global Study office and told them this is where I wanted to go, which was the most pivotal decision and the best decision I could have made. I am so grateful that I ended up in Australia. I saw so much that I never thought I would be able to see because of a distance that many view as a barrier. My time in Australia changed me as a person in many different ways, and I definitely plan on returning very soon!
My Advice For Future Students: I truly believe that the quality of one’s life is contingent on the quality of their relationships and their experiences. This journey is often described as all positive. This, I feel, can lead to misguided expectations. The reality of the situation is that it is a huge deal to move across the globe to wherever you choose to study, and with that comes with a struggle in adjusting and learning about your strength and intelligence throughout doing so. The most important thing you can do is to keep an open mind and a positive attitude about culture, experiences, and people! I met some of my best friends abroad, when it would have been very easy to stay in the inner-circle of Gettysburgians with whom I felt most comfortable. Don't be afraid to say yes to opportunities that present themselves, and discover more about the limitations of your comfort zone- you will be surprised!