Santa Clara University

Email:
sallbritten@scu.edu

Sarah Allbritten '11

Peer Advisor

Why do you want to serve as an International Ambassador at Santa Clara University?

I was very fortunate to be able to study abroad and I did not know much about the process or what to expect going into the program, I would have really liked someone who has done the program to connect with and talk to.  I would love to be that person for students who want to study abroad (especially in London). I had an amazing time  and I would not change or trade my experience for anything, and I want to help other students have just as an amazing and rewarding experience as I did.

What were the deciding factors in choosing your study abroad program-location?

When looking through the different programs SCU offered I knew I wanted one that offered classes for business so I could fulfill a class required for my major and didn't fall behind.  I also wanted an English-speaking country because I thought it would be an easier transition for me if I didn't have a huge language barrier to overcome.  I chose the SCU London Program because it had the internship experience component to, and I though it would be a great way to immerse myself in the English culture while getting good work experience.

Describe a defining moment in your abroad experiences and how that experience(s) has affected you personally, intellectually, vocational, spiritually, or academically.

I have never been away from home or my family for more than 2 weeks, so studying abroad in London and being away for almost four months was a giant step for me personally. I learned while being abroad that I could be on my own and be successful and happy. There was always something to do or see in London, I am from a small town so it was exciting and different to be in a big metropolitan city. London was also a great hub to use to travel to other countries in Europe. FIE and SCU were a great help in getting me acclimated and helping me through the transition of being in a foreign country. Intellectually I learned so much about not only England and its people but about the United States and how we as Americans are viewed by the rest of the world.

What advises, recommendations would you give to prospective study abroad students? In retrospect, how would you prepare differently to maximize the study abroad experience?

I would recommend they take into consideration not only the country and where the friends are going, but look at the study abroad practically.  Make sure the program you choose will fit with your major and the classes you need to keep on track to graduate.  It is also important to think about what it is you want to get out of studying abroad, it is not just a vacation and party for four months, its a difficult and new experience.