Elshadai Aberra
SoC 2025
- Program: Language and Culture in Montpellier
- Country: France
- Region: Europe
- Program Type: Affiliated
Specialties: Accessibility, Gender identity, LGBTQ identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need
Each year, the Global Learning Office (GLO) office selects study abroad alums to become student ambassadors. The GLO ambassadors are official representatives of the GLO office and advocates for their programs. You can connect with GLO ambassadors based on region, country or specialty below.
Ambassador | Region | Country | Specialty |
---|---|---|---|
Elshadai AberraSoC 2025
Specialties: Accessibility, Gender identity, LGBTQ identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need Hi, my name is Elshadai Aberra. I am pursuing a radio, television, and film major and art, theory, and practice minor. I studied in Montpellier, France through UMN’s language and culture program winter and spring of 2023. It was an interesting experience to say the least. I don’t regret any of it, but I wish I’d known how just how much I’d face before heading into the program. Studying abroad can be very challenging, more challenging than you can anticipate, yet also very rewarding. I made some of the best friends I think I’ll have for life.
| Europe | France | Accessibility, Gender identity, LGBTQ identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Nicole Aguilar-MedinaWCAS 2025
Specialties: First generation college students, First time traveler, Gender identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need Saludos! My name is Nicole Aguilar Medina. I participated in the Paris Exchange Program with European Union Studies at Sciences Po. I am a Political Science and Latina and Latino Studies double major. I loved my time abroad, and I learned to appreciate the culture abroad along with the global insights that the political culture generated. The study abroad program served as a fundamental basis of understanding global perspectives. | Europe | France | First generation college students, First time traveler, Gender identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Rosabel Arellano-RazoSESP 2025
Ciao, | Europe | Italy | |
Katia BautistaWCAS 2024
My name is Katia Bautista (she/her/hers), I’m currently a sophomore studying Economics and Global Health Studies with a minor in Business Institutions. In the summer of 202, I spent 8 weeks virtually interning for a community-based organization in San Jose, Costa Rica that focused on community engagement and education. Despite my internship being virtual, I really felt like I was in Costa Rica. I was able to learn more about the community I was working with through both my organization and the Institute for Central American Developmental Studies with whom I met once a week. It was a truly rewarding experience and I would definitely do it again either virtually or in person! | Americas | Costa Rica | |
Lindsay BeerMEAS 2026
Hi! I'm Lindsay Beer, a second year studying Biomedical Engineering and Entrepreneurship. Over the summer I spent 5 weeks in Florence as part of the Leading a Renaissance Then and Now program! Between taking part in Lupa contrada traditions, traveling with friends, and immersing myself in both the food and Italian culture, I grew in countless ways. Studying abroad was undoubtedly the highlight of my Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ experience so far. I'd love to talk or answer any questions about the study abroad experience or opportunities. | Europe | Italy | |
Bryden BehrensWCAS 2025
Specialties: First generation college students, Students with high financial need, Transfer student Hi! I'm Bryden Behrens and I am a junior studying political science, business institutions, and data science in Weinberg. I am currently studying abroad for Fall 2023 in Barcelona, Spain with the CASA Barcelona program. My biggest shock abroad was accidentally ordering 'morro frito' (look it up) at a tapas-style restaurant. Luckily, I laughed it off and came to the conclusion that I could totally be a contestant on Fear Factor. So far, my favorite interaction was in a conversation speaking Spanish. The person asked me where I was from and I appreciated that they didn't just assume I am American. Despite my desperate attempts to dress more European, people speak to me in English first, so this experience was very refreshing. | Europe | Spain | First generation college students, Students with high financial need, Transfer student |
Eloise BrotzmanWCAS 2025, Bienen 2025
Specialties: Accessibility Hi everyone! My name is Eloise Brotzman and I'm a current senior at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ double majoring in Psychology and Music and minoring in Creative Writing. I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain during winter and spring of my junior year (2024). I could not recommend doing so enough and love the opportunity to answer questions and share about my experience! | Europe | Spain | Accessibility |
Alejandra BustamanteMEAS 2025
Specialties: International student Hi! My name is Alejandra Bustamante and I am a third year from Ecuador majoring in Industrial Engineering and Economics. Studying abroad in Fall 2023 at University College London (UCL) has been one of the best experiences at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ. Exploring the city, meeting new people and being immersed in a beautiful city has been one of the most rewarding opportunities. Make sure to take advantage of what Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ has to offer. | Europe | England | International student |
Alexa CamilleriSoC 2025
Specialties: First generation college students Hi! My name is Alexa Camilleri (she/her), and I study Communications, Political Science, and Integrated Marketing Communications. During the Fall of 2023, I studied abroad in Mérida, Mexico to focus on improving my Spanish. I was able to live with a host family, take classes with local students, and make some amazing friends along the way. Mérida is a beautiful city with access to ruins such as Chichén Itzá, the beach, and cenotes, which are natural sinkholes filled with water. Studying abroad was one of the best experiences I have ever had, and I would definitely recommend it to those who are interested! | Americas | Mexico | First generation college students |
Sophia ChangWCAS & SESP 2025
Specialties: Race & Ethnicity My name is Sophia Chang (she/her) and I am a Social Policy major and Legal Studies minor with a certificate in Civic Engagement. I studied abroad in the fall of 2023 with SIT South Africa, where my program looked at the social and political transformation of South Africa, thirty years since their first democratic elections. | Africa | South Africa | Race & Ethnicity |
Bernard ChenWCAS 2026
Hi, my name is Bernard Chen (he/him/his). I am a second-year studying biological sciences and Chinese. I studied abroad in Athens, Greece in the summer of 2023. From meeting some really awesome locals to experiencing some of the best ice cream to ever exist, my month in Greece was a time in my life where I really broadened my horizons and became aware of the importance of experiencing different cultures. Do not sleep on studying abroad! | Europe | Greece | |
Gabriella ChuMcCormick 2025
Specialties: Race & Ethnicity My name is Gaby Chu and I studied abroad with GESI Costa Rica in the summer of 2024! I'm a Civil Engineering Major with a Minor in Architectural Engineering and over the summer I had an internship at a local regenerative farm focusing on protecting the mountains in Costa Rica and creating sustainable alternatives to agriculture. | Americas | Costa Rica | Race & Ethnicity |
Yaren CinarWCAS 2026
Specialties: Greek life, International student I'm Yaren Cinar, class of 2026. I'm currently majoring in Economics and minoring in Mathematics. I participated in the London School of Economics & Political Science Summer School during Summer 2023. My time at LSE has been one of my favorite experiences at college so far. On top of all the invaluable friendships I've made, I know that I wouldn't be able to learn as much as I learned from being physically present in the UK professional environment and connect with as many people as I could by attending in-person networking events. Studying abroad has many opportunities that you may not even realize at this time waiting for you. | Europe | England | Greek life, International student |
Mia CostaWCAS 2025
Specialties: First time traveler, Greek life, Pre-med or pre-health Hello! My name is Mia, and I am a junior majoring in Neuroscience with minors in Psychology and Global Health. I studied abroad during the Fall 2023 term in Denmark through DIS Copenhagen. In my program, I was able to conduct a comparative research project that looked at the public healthcare systems in Denmark and other Eastern European countries. My time abroad was genuinely the best four months of my life! I am happy to help prospective students, especially those who are pre-med or pre-health, navigate which abroad programs are best suited for their interests as well as to share any advice from my own abroad experience. | Europe | Denmark | First time traveler, Greek life, Pre-med or pre-health |
Katie CumminsWCAS and SoC 2025
Specialties: LGBTQ identity, Students with high financial need Hi! My name is Katie (she/her/hers) and I'm a current junior studying Communication Studies, Business, and Spanish, and I just returned from a summer in Barcelona learning more about the Spanish culture and language! I had a great time abroad and I want to support others in their journey to get out of Evanston and into the real world, especially if you're traveling abroad for the first time. Let me know if I can help! | Americas, Europe | Argentina, Chile, Spain | LGBTQ identity, Students with high financial need |
Meri DanielyanWCAS 2026
Specialties: International student, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need Hi! I'm Meri Danielyan, an international student from Armenia. I'm currently a sophomore, studying psychology. I completed the Spanish Language and Culture Summer Program in Barcelona during the summer of 2023. Studying abroad was one of the best decisions of my life as it was a perfect opportunity to step out of my comfort zone while getting acquainted with a new culture and improving my Spanish. | Europe | Spain | International student, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Anna DekaWCAS 2025
Specialties: Transfer student Hi! I'm Anna and I'm a senior majoring in Data Science and minoring in BIP. I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain through the IES Madrid program. As a transfer student, I was hesitant about going abroad at first, but I can genuinely say it ended up being one of the highlights of my time at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ. I made lifelong friends and learned so much about myself, all while traveling around Europe and gaining immense appreciation for different cultures! | Europe | Spain | Transfer student |
Faith DoWCAS 2026
Specialties: First generation college students, First time traveler, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need Hi! My name is Faith, I’m a Computer Science and Cognitive Science major. I studied abroad in Italy for the Florence: Leading a Renaissance Then and Now Program. My experience was genuinely life-changing, and getting to fully immerse myself in a new culture was incredibly eye-opening for me; it really showed me that we all have so much to learn from each other! | Europe | Italy | First generation college students, First time traveler, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Natasha EarlMedill 2205
Hi! My name is Natasha and I am a Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ junior majoring in Journalism and minoring in Psychology and Global Health. In the fall of 2023, I had the unforgettable experience of studying abroad in Denmark. The multitude of unique classes offered by my host institution and the small but exciting city of Copenhagen were two aspects that, in my opinion, make DIS stand out among other programs. | Europe | Denmark | |
Kimberly EspinosaWCAS, SOC 2026
Specialties: First generation college students, First time traveler, Students with high financial need Hi! I'm Kimberly (she/her) and I studied abroad in Seoul, South Korea through the Yonsei International Summer School in 2024. I'm majoring in Cognitive Science and Communication Studies with an area of study in Health Communication. | Asia | South Korea | First generation college students, First time traveler, Students with high financial need |
Piper FishkindWCAS 2025
Specialties: Gender identity, Religion & Spirituality Hi! I'm Piper and I am a junior studying History and Comparative Literature. I studied abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina and had the most amazing time. If you're thinking about going to South America or doing any kind of language immersion program, you should reach out to me! | Americas | Argentina | Gender identity, Religion & Spirituality |
Declan FraneySoC 2025
Specialties: First time traveler, Students with high financial need Hi! My name is Declan and I am a junior RTVF major and Psychology minor. I studied abroad at the Prague Film School in Fall 2023, and it was the best four months of my life. Through the school's filmmaking program, visiting cities across Europe, and having the opportunity to interact with students from across the world, I grew immensely as both an artist and person. I loved my time abroad, and want to help prospective students manage the more challenging aspects so they can have as wonderful of a semester as I did. | Europe | Czech Republic | First time traveler, Students with high financial need |
Teagan French-SalehSoC 2025
Specialties: First generation college students, Greek life, Transfer student Hi! My name is Teagan French-Saleh, I am a senior who studied abroad my junior year at SceiencesPo for both winter and spring quarter! I don't speak any French, so choosing to go to France for 4+ months was definitely nerve wracking, but I am so glad I chose to go! I'm an RTVF major and psychology minor at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, to which they didn't actually offer any classes in those subjects at my school, but I was able to take a bunch of general credits that expanded my worldly knowledge and challenged my thinking in ways that I wasn't generally used to! | Europe | France | First generation college students, Greek life, Transfer student |
Charlie GeciWCAS 2025
Specialties: Greek life Hey all, my name is Charlie Geci studying Economics as a junior. In the Fall of 2023, I had the amazing experience of studying abroad in Florence, Italy. I was able to immerse into the local culture and cuisine while partaking in weekend travel to much of Europe. | Europe | Italy | Greek life |
Indy GoldbergWCAS & SESP 2025
Hi! My name is Indy Goldberg (she/her), and I am a Junior studying Social Policy and Legal Studies. I went abroad with DIS Copenhagen in the Fall of 2023, and I studied International Immigration Law. My time abroad was life-changing as I cultivated new friendships, explored the places I was studying and reading about, and understood how to live independently. | Europe | Denmark | |
Sophie GreenWCAS 2027
Specialties: Accessibility, Gender identity, Greek life, Pre-med or pre-health Hello everyone! My name is Sophie Green and I am a sophomore at the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences double majoring in Biological Sciences and Science in Human Culture on the pre-med track, and I am minoring in Spanish. I participated in the Summer Language and Culture Program in Barcelona during the Summer of 2024 and absolutely loved it! It was an amazing opportunity to practice Spanish and be able to travel around Spain and Catalonia! | Europe | Spain | Accessibility, Gender identity, Greek life, Pre-med or pre-health |
Maria HeimMedill 2025
Specialties: First time traveler, Greek life, Religion & Spirituality, Students with high financial need Hello, I'm Maria! I studied with Syracuse University in Florence during the fall of 2023. I am currently majoring in Journalism and International Studies with a minor in Business Institutions. My time in Florence was incredibly fulfilling and meaningful! I was able to connect with my family as well as grow my language skills. I would love to talk about studying abroad with you! | Europe | Italy | First time traveler, Greek life, Religion & Spirituality, Students with high financial need |
Annie HoMcCormick 2025
Specialties: Accessibility, First generation college students, Gender identity, LGBTQ identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need My name is Annie Ho, and I'm an Environmental Engineering student in McCormick. I studied abroad last fall quarter in my junior year in Edinburgh, Scotland. I had an amazing time learning about Scottish culture, and I even got to participate in a Ceilidh (a traditional Scottish dance)! While I had an amazing experience abroad, I wish I had a little more guidance before I went, so I would love to help other engineering and low-income students know what to expect when going abroad. Please feel free to reach out to me and ask me anything about my experience! | Europe | Scotland | Accessibility, First generation college students, Gender identity, LGBTQ identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Annika HollidaySESP 2025
Hi! I'm Annika Holliday. I studied in Copenhagen through DIS in the Fall of 2023. I am majoring in Learning and Organizational Change in SESP, minoring in Entrepreneurship, and pursuing the Integrated Marketing Communications certificate. Studying abroad has been the highlight of my Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ experience. I would love to talk to you and answer any questions about DIS or Copenhagen, including classes, the core class travel weeks, residential options, host families, best cafes, must-see museums, weekend itineraries, my favorite European cities or anything else! | Europe | Denmark | |
Josue IdaniWCAS 2024
Specialties: Pre-med or pre-health, Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality, Students with high financial need Josue Idani, Comparative public health: Serbia & Bosnia Herzegovina, Double major in Neuroscience and Global Health Studies. Studying abroad really challenged me to embrace new customs and ways of life in the most beautiful of landscapes. It opened me to the stories of those impacted by war and how they continue to live despite the gravest of events. I will never forget this experience and people that I met along this journey. | Europe | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Pre-med or pre-health, Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality, Students with high financial need |
Maya IkenberryWCAS 2026
Specialties: Greek life My name is Maya Ikenberry. I'm a sophomore in Weinberg studying global history. I went abroad on the Barcelona Summer program for six weeks this past summer. My time abroad was entirely transformational. I met the most amazing students and my confidence exponentially increased. | Europe | Spain | Greek life |
Emilie JacobusMEAS 2025
Hi I’m Emilie! I’m a junior studying biomedical engineering. I studied abroad at DIS Stockholm in Fall 2023. I had an absolutely amazing experience and would love to answer any questions you have about studying abroad! | Europe | Sweden | |
Hana-Lei JiWCAS & SESP 2025
Specialties: First time traveler, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need Hi! My name is Hana-Lei (she/her) and I went to the London School of Economics and Political Science Summer School in 2023! I'm a Social Policy and Cognitive Science major with an Asian American Studies minor. I am so grateful to have been able to spend six weeks in London and explore the history and culture of the city (including a short trip to Edinburgh as well!). For me studying abroad on my own as a low-income student was a challenge in its own sense but very gratifying in the lessons and reflections I learned from gaining more of a sense of independence and from the amazing people I was able to meet. | Europe | England | First time traveler, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Caitlin JimmarWCAS 2026
Specialties: Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality My name is Caitlin Jimmar (she/her/hers), and I am a third year History and International Studies student. I studied abroad with the GESI Bolivia program in the summer of 2023. Through this program, I was able to live and work abroad, while cultivating relationships that will last a life time. My experience working for a Bolivian nonprofit changed how I want to approach my prospective career as a lawyer. This experience definitely pushed me outside of my comfort zone with a new language and a new type of work. I am now a more confident and well-rounded individual. | Americas | Bolivia | Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality |
Sarah KimMcCormick 2027
Specialties: LGBTQ identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need Hi! My name is Sarah, and I’m majoring in Industrial Engineering and International Studies. I studied abroad Fall 2024 in Paris on the European Union Studies program, but I’ve also studied abroad before in South Korea through the State Department. I’ve loved my experiences abroad, from traveling, being immersed in the local culture, learning a foreign language, and meeting amazing new people! As a FGLI student, I’ve been able to study abroad three times for free (and will be interning abroad), and they’ve all been unforgettable experiences. | Asia, Europe | France, South Korea | LGBTQ identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Sarah KimMedill 2026
Specialties: First time traveler Hi! My name is Sarah, and I am majoring in Journalism and Data Science. I studied abroad during the 2023 Summer term in Seoul, South Korea. Studying abroad in Korea was always a goal of mine since coming to Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, and I truly enjoyed every minute of it. | Asia | South Korea | First time traveler |
Nina KronengoldWCAS 2025
Hello! My name is Nina Kronengold and I am a junior majoring in cognitive science and minoring in entrepreneurship, art theory and practice, and design. I have participated in two of the wonderful abroad experiences that Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ has to offer: the GESI Vietnam Summer Program in 2022 and the Affiliated Art Studio program through Syracuse in Florence Italy in the fall of 2023. Both experiences, though drastically different, have had profound affects on the way I interact with the world and the values that imbue my life with a sense of meaning. | Asia, Europe | Italy, Vietnam | |
Anni KuningasWCAS 2026
Specialties: First time traveler, Pre-med or pre-health, Students with high financial need Hi! My name is Anni Kuningas, and I'm a second-year at NU. I'm a Neuroscience major/Spanish minor in Weinberg on the pre-med track. I studied abroad during the Summer of 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, and it was the best time of my life. I experienced beautiful cultures, met some of my best friends, and saw amazing sights. GO ABROAD! :) | Europe | Spain | First time traveler, Pre-med or pre-health, Students with high financial need |
Sarah KushnerSESP 2024
Specialties: Transfer student Hi, I'm Sarah Kushner! I studied abroad in Madrid last fall through the IES Language and Area Studies program. I am currently a senior at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ majoring in LOC, minoring in Cognitive Science, and completing a Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵhip certificate. Studying abroad really enriched my experience at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ and I truly believe it is an opportunity that every student needs to take advantage of. During my time abroad, I learned so much, and not only in the classroom. I also gained so much cultural knowledge through living in a new country and traveling to others, as well as about myself through gaining my own independence. | Europe | Spain | Transfer student |
Riva LakkadiWCAS 2025
Specialties: Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality Hi, my name is Riva Lakkadi and I studied abroad at the Queen Mary University of London in the Fall 2023 term. I’m currently a junior studying Computer Science with a minor in Business Institutions. Studying abroad was the best decision I made, and I genuinely learned so much and became much more independent. I loved getting to explore the city, travel around Europe, and try some of the best food I have ever had. I also met some of my closest friends abroad, so definitely take advantage of this opportunity if you are able to! | Europe | England | Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality |
Rayna LeeSoC 2027
Specialties: Race & Ethnicity Hi! I'm Rayna, a sophomore studying Communication Studies, and I studied abroad at DIS Copenhagen for six weeks during Summer 24. Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I've made, and I cannot recommend it enough. I got to learn so much about myself and also learn about a different culture in a way that I otherwise would have not. Studying abroad truly is a special experience, and I've made some of my most fun memories and met the most amazing people while abroad. | Europe | Denmark | Race & Ethnicity |
Julia LehrWCAS 2025
Hi! My name is Julia Lehr, and I studied abroad in Paris, France for the Fall 2023 Term through the Public Health in Europe program. I'm a double major in Global Health and Psychology, as well as on the pre-med track. I have always loved traveling, and my experience in Paris was by far the most rewarding experience of my life so far. By pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and living in a foreign country, everyone has the chance to grow in the best possible ways and learn new things about themselves. I would love to chat to any prospective students about making this transition and all the things I loved about my program! | Europe | France | |
Stephanie LiewWCAS 2024
Specialties: International student Hi! I'm Stephenie, a senior studying Computer Science. I was in Nagoya, Japan in Fall 2023 and had a great experience with new friends as well as my host family. | Asia | Japan | International student |
Mark MacGuidwinMEAS 2024
My name is Mark MacGuidwin, and I am a senior pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering with the Kellogg Certificate in Managerial Analytics. Participating in the Global Healthcare Technologies program in South Africa was the best decision I have made at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ without a doubt. Gaining capstone credit, getting hugged by an elephant, and missing a Chicago winter were definitely benefits! However, more importantly, my experience gave me a broader understanding and appreciation for culture and healthcare in an international context. | Africa | South Africa | |
Claire MarrieWCAS 2025
Specialties: Gender identity Hi! My name is Claire Marrie (she/her). I'm a junior in Weinberg majoring in Psychology and minoring in data science, critical theory, and classics. I studied abroad in Athens in summer 2022 and in Florence in fall 2023. I loved my first time studying abroad so much I knew I had to study abroad again! I loved being able to immerse myself in new cultures, travel in my free time, and make great connections with friends and my host family! | Europe | Greece, Italy | Gender identity |
Elena MazariegosWCAS 2027
Specialties: First generation college students, Religion & Spirituality Hi all! My name is Elena Mazariegos, and I am a second year student majoring in International Studies and Spanish. I studied abroad summer of 2024 at the University of Deusto in Bilbao, Spain. I am very grateful for the opportunity I had to live in Bilbao, as I could be immersed in the Spanish language and culture and explore all that the city had to offer. | Europe | Spain | First generation college students, Religion & Spirituality |
Serena MehtaWCAS 2025
Specialties: Transfer student My name is Serena Meta and I am a current junior! I studied abroad in London during the Summer 2023 term. I'm majoring in International Studies and Political Science with a minor in Global Health Studies. During my time in London I had the opportunity to explore so many different and fun parts of the city that allowed me to have a really immersive abroad experience and it was truly the most rewarding opportunity. | Europe | England | Transfer student |
Tessa NixonWCAS 2025
Hi! My name is Tessa, I use she/her pronouns, and I studied Classics over the summer quarter of 2023. I am currently majoring in Economics, with minors in Classical Studies and Anthropology with a focus in culture. My time in Athens, Greece was incredibly fun, with a lot of freedom to explore the country while still taking two Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ courses. I made some amazing friends and got to check my #1 country off my bucket list while I was at it! Overall I had a great time and love to share my experience! | Europe | Greece | |
Katherine NovakovichWCAS 2026
Specialties: Religion & Spirituality Hi! My name is Katherine Novakovich, and I'm a sophomore studying history, literature, and classics. During my summer with the Athens: Ancient Culture and Modern City program in 2023, I was struck by how the experience of travel can bond people together in unique ways. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to forge new friendships and deepen preexisting ones in Greece, and I remember feeling extremely humbled by our exchange of different ideas and life philosophies. Exploring a new environment with new friends can form your perception of yourself and the world around you more than you can even imagine. If you're considering applying, do it!! If not now, when? | Europe | Greece | Religion & Spirituality |
Clara OhWCAS 2025
Hello, my name is Clara Oh. My global learning journey in Korea during Fall 2023 was a transformative experience. As a double major in Global Health Studies and Political Science, I found the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives invaluable. Through my time abroad, I developed a deeper understanding of global health issues and political dynamics, enhancing my Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ experience. Excited to share my insights with prospective students and inspire them to embark on their own global adventures! | Asia | South Korea | |
Hannah PaikWCAS 2026
Specialties: Pre-med or pre-health, Race & Ethnicity My name is Hannah (she/hers) and I am a current sophomore studying Neuroscience and Global Health! I studied abroad in Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina in summer 2023 through the Comparative Public Health Program, where I learned about the rich history and culture in the Balkans, as well as the healthcare systems in both countries and some of the challenges they face. It was a deeply rewarding experience, and I’d love to chat about my time abroad or answer any questions you may have! | Europe | Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia | Pre-med or pre-health, Race & Ethnicity |
Sofia PapadopoulosWCAS 2027
Specialties: First generation college students, First time traveler, LGBTQ identity, Pre-med or pre-health, Students with high financial need Hello! I'm Sofia, an Anthropology and Global Health Studies major on a pre-med track. I attended the Comparative Public Health program in Serbia & Bosnia-Herzegovina in Summer 2024, by far the most fun and valuable two months of my time at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ. Through the incredible professors and many excursions, I gained a profound knowledge of the fascinating yet somber realities of the former Yugoslavia. I was able to immerse myself in a completely new world, indulging in the incredible cuisine and taking in all the gorgeous (and mountainous!) sites. | Europe | Bosnia and Herzegovina | First generation college students, First time traveler, LGBTQ identity, Pre-med or pre-health, Students with high financial need |
Katherine PayneWCAS 2025
Hi! My name is Kate Payne and I did Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ's European Union Studies during Fall Quarter of 2023. I am an Economics and Political Science major and am so grateful for my experience abroad in Paris. I met wonderful lifelong friends, became a more confident traveler, learned the beautiful language of French and was able to fully immerse myself into a new culture. | Europe | France | |
Mia PerkinsWCAS 2026
Specialties: International student Kia Ora! My name is Mia Perkins, and I am an international student from New Zealand who studied abroad in Paris in 2023 in the European Union studies programme as an International Studies + Economics major. Having spent considerable time growing up in Germany and England, studying and living abroad has shaped much of my adolescence and I would love the opportunity to be able to share its impact with new study abroad students: I truly believe that in foreign places and with foreign people, you truly only begin to understand the deepest parts of yourself better. I would love to discuss all things global, as well as how to deal with travelling abroad emotionally and maintaining connections with loved ones back home. An entire world awaits you beyond Evanston, and what an exciting thing that is! | Europe | France | International student |
Sam RappinWCAS 2025
Specialties: Transfer student Hi! | Europe | Denmark | Transfer student |
Katie RebhanWCAS 2025
Specialties: Greek life, Pre-med or pre-health Hi! My name is Katie Rebhan, and I'm a junior majoring in cognitive science with a minor in economics and Kellogg certificate. I studied abroad in the Fall of 2023 at Oxford, where I studied psychology, gaining a lot of knowledge to enhance my studies at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ. I also enjoyed myself outside the classroom, even having time to travel to multiple countries during my time abroad. Happy to help with any questions you might have! | Europe | England | Greek life, Pre-med or pre-health |
Fiona RoachMedill 2025
Hi! My name is Fiona Roach and I'm a third-year undergraduate studying Journalism and International Studies. I participated in the European Union Studies program in Paris in Fall 2023, which was an incredibly transformative experience. One thing I really appreciated about the EU Studies program is that I was able to travel without having to sacrifice the opportunity to really explore and get to know Paris! In the end, I was able to see 10 countries throughout the quarter, while still immersing myself fully in the French culture and the Parisian lifestyle. | Europe | France | |
Autumn RoseSoC 2024
Specialties: Gender identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need Hello! My name is Autumn Rose (she/her/hers), and I am currently a senior majoring in Communication Studies, with minors in Spanish and Film & Media Studies. This past summer, I studied abroad in Barcelona, Spain in a Spanish language and culture program. I had an amazing and truly life-changing experience abroad, expanding my worldview as well as strengthening my language acquisition. Having the opportunity to travel within the country and engage with new people and places has greatly impacted me and broadened my ideas of what is possible for me! | Europe | Spain | Gender identity, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Julia RutkowskiMedill 2024
I am a senior at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, studying Journalism and International Studies. In Fall 2022, I studied abroad at the University of Edinburgh and loved every moment of it! From the cobblestone grounds to the castles and Highland cows, it was definitely a dream come true. | Europe | Scotland | |
Meena SharmaWCAS & SESP 2025
Specialties: Accessibility, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need My name is Meena Sharma, and I am a part of the class of 2025. I am studying Learning Sciences and Political Science, and studied abroad fall of 2023 in Mérida, Mexico. I was surprised to have created such a strong family bond abroad, with friends and my host family alike. I was able to travel to multiple cenotes (swimmable sinkholes created from the impact of the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs) that were nothing short of beautiful and refreshing! | Americas | Mexico | Accessibility, Race & Ethnicity, Students with high financial need |
Sonya DymovaWCAS and Medill 2026
Specialties: Accessibility, First generation college students, International student, Students with high financial need Hi all! My name is Sonya, I am a Journalism and Political Science student at Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, and I've lived and studied in four different countries while being a FIGLI student. One of my international journeys happened with the GESI Vietnam in the Summer of 2023, and it was truly the best experience I've had at NU so far. If you choose to study abroad, you might find yourself making life-long friends at your internship site, travelling on the border between Vietnam and China on your birthday or exploring your academic interest in history and politics of a country through night-long conversations with locals.:) | Asia | Vietnam | Accessibility, First generation college students, International student, Students with high financial need |
Sofia SorochinskaiaMedill 2026
Specialties: International student, Students with high financial need Hi! My name is Sofia Sorochinskaia, I'm a junior majoring in Journalism and International Studies. This past summer, I had the opportunity to study at the University of Oxford as part of the Exeter College Summer Programme, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Exploring a 1,000-year-old campus, attending lectures by world-renowned professors, going to beautiful formal dinners, watching football in English pubs, learning British jokes, and making friends from all over the world—every moment was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I enjoyed every second of it. | Europe | England | International student, Students with high financial need |
Anna SouterWCAS & Medill 2025
Hi I'm Anna! I studied abroad at DIS Copenhagen for Fall of 2023, and I am a double major in Journalism & Economics with an English minor and IMC certificate. My experiences abroad will always be special to me because they allowed me to grow into a better version of myself! Please feel free to reach out to me, I'm happy to share more about my experiences with you. | Europe | Denmark | |
Mary TracySoC 2025
Specialties: First time traveler My name is Mary Kate Tracy and I am a Junior studying Communication Studies and Economics with an Integrated Marketing Communications Certificate. I studied abroad in Florence Italy through the Syracuse SU Florence Abroad Program. This was my first time ever going to Europe and I was able to visit 10 countries and 30 cities in just 100 days. | Europe | Italy | First time traveler |
Jack TullyWCAS 2026
Name: Jack Tully | Europe | Germany | |
Christina VargasWCAS 2026
Specialties: First generation college students, First time traveler, Greek life, Students with high financial need Hi my name is Christina (she/her)! I am current junior studying Psychology and Global Health. I studied in the Comparative Public Health Program: Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina in the summer of 2024. While my time abroad I learned about the history of both countries and the post-war challenges they face. I also learned about the healthcare systems set in place in the countries and the current health disparities. I am more than happy to talk about my summer abroad and answer any question you might have! | Europe | Bosnia and Herzegovina | First generation college students, First time traveler, Greek life, Students with high financial need |
Ana Paula Velazquez CastroWCAS 2024
Specialties: Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality My name is Ana and I studied abroad in Australia through the Arcadia University at the University of Sydney during the Winter/Spring 2023. I study Psychology and International Studies, and I think everyone can benefit from studying abroad and all students should get an opportunity to truly consider it. | Oceania | Australia, New Zealand | Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality |
Atziry Villeda-SantiagoSoC 2025
My name is Atziry and I am majoring in Data Science and Communication Studies. My program for Summer 2023 was Berlin : Global City in the Center of Europe. This past summer was the highlight of my Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ experience thus far and it is a program I would greatly recommend. I got to travel within and outside Germany, immerse myself in German culture and meet students from all over the world. | Europe | Germany | |
Sydney WarwickWCAS 2025
Specialties: Pre-med or pre-health Hi! My name is Sydney Warwick and I participated in the Public Health in Europe program in Paris, France in Fall 2023! I am biological sciences major and global health studies minor on the pre-med track. I absolutely loved my time abroad and really got to gain a broader perspective on healthcare, while also learning so much about French culture! | Europe | France | Pre-med or pre-health |
Vivianna WhiteSoC 2025
Specialties: Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality Hi! My name is Vivianna White (she/her/hers) and I am a current senior studying Communication Sciences & Disorders (CSD) and Global Health with a minor in Cognitive Science. I participated in the DIS Stockholm program for winter/spring 2024! Abroad, I lived with a host family, learned Swedish, and learned all about the coffee and food cultures in Sweden and Scandinavia. I am happy to discuss any questions you may have about studying abroad such as living with a host family, the visa process, or any potential cultural/religious considerations! | Europe | Sweden | Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality |
Ezell WilliamsWCAS 2024
Specialties: First generation college students, First time traveler, Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality, Students with high financial need Hello, my name is Ezell Williams. I am a fourth year student majoring in Middle Eastern and North African studies and currently trying to minor in Arabic. I studied abroad with the CET Jordan program and would love to talk about my experience abroad as a black, first-time traveler even if you plan on not going to the Middle East. | Middle East and North Africa | Jordan | First generation college students, First time traveler, Race & Ethnicity, Religion & Spirituality, Students with high financial need |
Kelly WilsonSoC 2005
Hello My name is Kelly Wilson and I am a Radio/Television/Film major. I went abroad during the Fall 2023 term and it was an incredible experience. This was my first time going out of the country so I had a lot of first throughout the term. There was an adjustment period but once I settled in I really enjoyed studying abroad. I think the most impressive famous structure I saw while abroad was the Eiffel tower for sure and one of my favorite memories was taking a solo trip to Barcelona. | Europe | England | |
Jonathan WuMEAS 2026
My name is Jonathan Wu (he/him/his). I am a second year studying Industrial Engineering with a minor in Data Science & Engineering. I spent my summer 2023 quarter studying abroad in Florence taking Team Leadership and Social Network Analysis. I really enjoyed travelling throughout Italy and the immersive experience of seeing history and culture unfold around me. Studying abroad has been a life-changing experience and has been incredibly rewarding! | Europe | Italy | |
Marie YoungcourtWCAS 2025
Specialties: First generation college students, First time traveler, Students with high financial need Marie Youngcourt | Europe | Scotland | First generation college students, First time traveler, Students with high financial need |
Jenny ZhaoWCAS & MEAS 2025
Specialties: Pre-med or pre-health My name is Jenny Zhao and I am currently a third year studying biomedical engineering and neuroscience. I studied abroad at King's College London Health and Society in London during Fall 2023. Studying abroad is one of the experiences and memories that will stay with you after graduation ~ so definitely give it a try! | Europe | England | Pre-med or pre-health |