Posted By: Career Enrichment Network
Content and Photos contributed by Alison Maser
Alison Maser, Liberal Arts student majoring in Psychology spent Spring 2016 studying in Australia. Learn more about Alison’s study abroad experience below.
I chose to take part in an exchange semester at The University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. I based my decision on the location, as most of the courses that I am taking here are not specific to my major. I always knew that I wanted to come to Australia, and studying abroad was the perfect opportunity to do so. Sydney is so incredible and I have been researching it as well as the entire country for years. By living here for an entire semester, I have been able to become fully immersed in the Australian culture and I have had the opportunity to visit so many amazing places and meet so many incredible people in this beautiful country.
I chose to study abroad in the Spring- I couldn’t miss football season at PSU! Also this way I got an extra summer in as the seasons are flipped here and classes did not start until the end of February.
To get involved with the local community and university, I joined a group called Sinai Scholars, through which I attend a session once a week. At this session I meet with a Rabbi and other Jewish university students to discuss Judaism in all aspects.
I remain unsure of my career goals and plans. While studying abroad I have spoken to many people about their careers and plans, but am still yet to decide upon my own.
Education Abroad Advising was extremely helpful (thanks Whitney!).
To students who are considering studying abroad, my advice is DO IT!!!! Even if studying abroad means that you may have to shift around your courses or plans a bit, it is so worth it. Take advantage of the unique opportunity to be at a point in your life where this is possible. People dream of having an experience such as study abroad, and if there is any chance that you are able to, then please take advantage of it. I have been truly challenged here academically. I’m taking a lot of a science courses which are definitely not my specialty, and because of this I have been collaborating a lot with my peers.
One of my favorite memories from this experience was when, a few weeks ago my family came to visit me. It was so amazing to be able to show them around to all of my favorite places and to experience the city that I have grown to love with them.
Interested in studying abroad in the future? The summer is a great time to start planning! All Liberal Arts students studying or interning abroad are eligible for Enrichment Funding. To learn more, please schedule an appointment via Network Symplicity or email Jackie Smith, Global Experiences Coordinator (jds54@psu.edu)