Santa Clara University

Joelle Strickland '09

Peer Advisor: Exchange Student Support Coordinator

I am a senior at SCU majoring in Communication with a double-minor in Theatre and French.  I knew, without a doubt, that I wanted to study abroad during my college education. I was very ready to expand my learning of a foreign language/culture from the classroom to real life experience. Living in a different country I knew would also help me learn about myself, as I would have fewer people to rely on, and more responsibility to take care of myself and to get the most out of my experience. Frankly, I was motivated to study abroad because the endeavor scared me. I was born and raised in the Bay Area and had never been away from home for such an extended period of time so I wanted to challenge myself. I decided to study in Paris first of all because I have been studying French since junior high. France is also a relatively central location in Europe so I knew it would be conducive to travel. Lastly, I chose the CIEE Contemporary French Studies program specifically because of its small size and academic focus on the humanities.

Studying abroad has definitely helped me to learn a lot about my potential as a person. I am proud of my ability to adapt to a very different lifestyle, different language, etc. I obviously have a much greater understanding of the French culture now, but I also feel like I have a greater grasp on the general idea of cultural differences too. I look at people who are different from me with far less judgment and with greater curiosity. Studying abroad has made me more determined to make travel an important part of my life. I am currently researching a way to teach in France post-graduation.

My advice to prospective study abroad students is the following: First, don’t be afraid. I know that sounds like an impossible request – I was very afraid myself. But I would want students to know that they are capable of making their experience more than they probably could ever imagine. The experience can benefit everyone from all walks of life, all different backgrounds, studying every different discipline. Also, expect emotional ups and downs during your abroad experience. Some of the most joyful and most challenging moments of my life happened while studying abroad. Lastly, I would tell prospective students that it is unlike any learning experience they've had before - it's not about the classroom and the books. It's about people, places, experiences, and moments.