Olivia Westphal

Major: Finance
Minor: Economics
Pathway: Design Thinking
Study Abroad Program Location: Rome, Italy
Study Abroad Term: Fall 2024

Student Testimony

What motivated you to pursue a global education experience?

I have always known I wanted to study abroad since my mom did, and she always speaks so highly of her time there and how much she grew as a person.

Describe your initial thoughts and feelings as you prepared to study or intern abroad.

The week leading up to leaving I felt a mixed bag of emotions- excited, scared, sad to leave friends and family. I didn't go in with any kind of specific expectations because I didn't want to be disappointed or upset that something didn't work out in the way I had imagined.

Share a memorable experience or encounter that immersed you in the local culture.

I did a pasta cooking class and it really showed me how they use food and cooking as a bonding experience and is such a sign of love in their culture.

Discuss your academic or professional experiences abroad. 

I studied on and at a US college campus while I was there so it was honestly a very similar experience as here at my specific destination.

Reflect on the personal growth and development you experienced during your time abroad.

I definitely learned to be more independent and more confident in my intuition. Every challenge that came my way was a 'just figure it out' situation.

Describe the friendships and connections you formed with both local residents and fellow students.

My friendships with new SCU students really blossomed and it has been so nice coming back to campus and getting to see them in this environment as well! Their relationships had such a positive impact on my overall experience and I couldn't have imagined my time abroad with any other group of people.

Share a story about a challenge or obstacle you faced while studying or interning abroad and how you overcame it.

I would say one reoccurring challenge was transportation. I learned to get places very early and have a LOT of patience!

How has studying or interning abroad influenced your career goals, worldview, or future aspirations?

I would say my career goals and future aspirations are generally the same but I do think I have a more well rounded view of the world.