Maxwell McClellan

Class Year: 2020

Hometown: Long Valley, NJ

Global Study Semester: Fall, 2018

Programs: DIS, Copenhagen, Denmark

Major/Minor: English with a Writing Concentration

Activities on Campus: Phi Kappa Psi, Writing Center, Poetry Circle, Storytellers' Circle

My Story from Global Study: I studied abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, where I stayed with a host family. My core course was Cognitive Neuroscience, and I also took classes in Danish Language and Nordic Mythology. I traveled to many places in Denmark, and I even went to other countries. These included Iceland, Italy, England, and Slovenia. While abroad, I exercised independence, I became a better student and learner, and I made strong bonds with many people. I will always remember my semester abroad as a key event in my life, one where I learned how to navigate the larger world around me and learned many skills that would improve the quality of my life. 

My Advice for Future Students: One of my biggest tips is to not be nervous about fitting in. Studying abroad is an exciting and fun time which you will remember for years to come. The thought of travelling to another country seems overwhelming at first, but when you're actually there, it is all a matter of adapting to surroundings. The transitional process will be a bit difficult, but it will not be impossible. Just take it easy, go with the flow, and you will fit into the country you visit just fine. Remember, there are other people who are going through the transition as well; everyone is in this together.