A total of 40 students studied abroad this spring; 34 of those students participated in faculty-led programs. Faculty-led travels included Serbia, London, and The Bahamas while independent student travels included Italy, Germany, Finland and Spain.
This summer, there will be a total of 41 students studying abroad; 34 of those students are participating in faculty-led programs. Faculty-led groups are traveling to Ireland, Colombia, UK, Uganda, and Finland. Independent students are traveling to Spain, South Korea, Thailand, and the UK.
Several students that participated in study abroad shared a little bit about their experiences.
Student experiences
Nancy Moos
Year: Graduate student
Degree/Major: SLIM, Library Sciences
Country visited: Serbia
Why did you chose to participate in study abroad?
I wanted to experience something different, to get a perspective on librarianship around the world, and to meet new people
Share one memorable experience from the trip.
5 students from the University of Belgrade faculty of Philology showed us around town, then took us to a neighboring village, then to Bosnia. They shared so much about their country, their own lives and asked us questions about the U.S. It was so wonderful to meet them!
What were your expectations about the country compared to how things really were when you arrived?
In many ways the city of Belgrade was what I expected from a European town, but the people were much friendlier and open. Despite recent wars and attitudes about the US involvement in the NATO bombings in the 90s, people welcomed us and were so hospitable!
Is there anything you learned studying abroad that you don’t think you would have otherwise?
I would not have the same perspective on librarianship and dealing with difficult situations. The attitude of the people that things can change quickly really permeated much of their lives. I learned about creativity with what you have!
Meghan Shave
Year: Senior - Spring 2016
Degree/Major: Elementary Education
Country visited: Paraguay
Why did you chose to participate in study abroad?
I believe that when you visit other countries and experience other cultures you grow as a person. I try and take every opportunity that I am presented with to experience, learn and become better than I am. Being away from home was difficult but I would do it again in a heartbeat.
Share one memorable experience from the trip.
I could say that traveling to different spots in the country was memorable and breathtaking. But, the most memorable experience was getting to work in a school for a month. Getting to know the teachers, students, and staff helped open my eyes to the differences between Paraguay's education system and that of the United States. Everyone was so welcoming that it was hard to leave.
What were your expectations about the country compared to how things really were when you arrived?
I didn't really have many expectations. I didn't realize the income inequality would be so drastic. They sent us a handbook before we left the states that provided us with pretty much everything we needed to know!
Is there anything you learned studying abroad that you don’t think you would have otherwise?
Most definitely yes! Although I was only there for a month and I didn't take classes, I was in the elementary through high schools every day. I also visited the University on several occasions. The knowledge gained was not something I could have learned from a book. Experiencing this culture first hand will last with me a lot longer. I would recommend this program to everyone! As a future teacher, I am now able to bring this experience back to my future classroom. I have contacts and friends in Paraguay that my class will be able to Skype with or send letters to. We can work together to donate books or other necessities to the schools. I have already started to consider taking another trip to Paraguay or to become a host family for Paraguayans that are visiting Kansas.
Ryan Timothy LaFerney
Year: 2nd year graduate student
Degree/Major: MLS/ Library Science
Country visited: Serbia
Why did you chose to participate in study abroad?
When I found out that ESU took bi-yearly trips to Serbia I was not only surprised but very ecstatic. I am a member of the Serbian Orthodox Church and although I am a convert, I am familiar with some of the history and customs of Serbia. However, I desired greatly to visit Serbia first hand to learn more about the traditions I've inherited. I was also particularly curious to see how Serbia has protected and safe-guarded its intellectual and religious heritage throughout its turbulent, yet resilient past. As an inspiring special collections librarian, I was every interested in exploring the preservation efforts that were made to protect precious manuscripts and documents within the Balkans.
Share one memorable experience from the trip:
It was a special treat to visit the conservation department at the National Library of Serbia to witness firsthand the efforts that were being made to maintain the integrity of precious books and manuscripts, that are in many ways - the living documents of Serbia. It was neat to see the conservators working on paper and parchment restoration, which is reportedly the best in the Balkans. We got to witness various stages of the restoration process, including a sterilization procedure in with a book is left in a very low oxygen bag for up to three weeks (left), a process the reportedly kills all the bacteria on older books.
Additionally, I really think it is special that they send conservators to Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos (established in 1054 and listed as a UNSECO world heritage site) to repair manuscripts and hand-written gospels. Hilandar is a treasure for the Serbian people as it was established by St. Sava (the enlightener of Serbia). It is also beloved by many individuals throughout the world.
I definitely got to explore preservation in Serbia (and see incredible hand-written books)!
What were your expectations about the country compared to how things really were when you arrived?
I really tried to not have too many expectations, as the Serbian lifestyle is very fluid. I also realized that I am going to not only be a guest of the University of Belgrade but a pilgrim in a foreign country. I really didn't want to impose my expectations on anyone. I wanted to remain open to who I would meet and what I would discover.
However, I expected a majority of the people I meant to be rather friendly but I didn't realize just how warm, kind, and down to earth the people of Serbia are. Serbian hospitality can be quite astounding and many individuals will go out of their way to assist you. I would say that what shocked me and what humbled me the most was the generosity of our Serbian hosts and the friends I made. Serbian hospitality really does exceed expectations. I felt so welcomed and loved.
Is there anything you learned studying abroad that you don’t think you would have otherwise?
Traveling abroad is important for many reasons but I think most importantly it allows for an educational intimacy that one cannot gain by reading text books. I think I learned more about Serbian culture and Serbian lifestyle than I ever could by searching Wikipedia. I think it is really important to spend time immersed in a culture, as a pilgrim and as a student, observing its customs to gain a new perspective on life. I feel completely changed by my trip to Serbia and I am forever grateful to ESU and SLIM for the opportunity to experience such a wonderful country