Sophia Young is a current senior at Tulane studying International Development, Latin American Studies, and Spanish & Portuguese. She spent her junior year abroad, including a summer interning with Fundación Paraguaya in Asunción Paraguay, a semester studying in Montevideo with Middlebury in Uruguay, and a semester in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro with Middlebury in Brazil. After witnessing the professional, academic, and personal growth undergone abroad, Sophia is dedicated to helping students find their own paths outside of the traditional education model.
She is passionate about anything and everything study abroad, from linguistic immersion to intercultural exchange to dealing with culture shock. As an advisor, Sophia aspires to help students understand what motivates them to study abroad, ultimately working together to make international dreams come to fruition. She hopes to be an advocate for underrepresented voices, and provide individualized advising tailored to the context of each student.
Josef Kiesenhofer is a current Tulane student (Class of '25) coming from Camas, Washington. He is working towards a BA in German Studies and a BSM in Finance, but his experiences studying abroad have been the most impactful part of his academic journey. While at Tulane, Josef studied in Mérida, Mexico in the Altman Program Summer Abroad, Berlin, Germany with IES Abroad, and Madrid, Spain at Universidad Pontificia Comillas. At Tulane, Josef is a member of the Altman Program in International Studies & Business, a brother in Alpha Kappa Psi pre-professional business fraternity, a WTUL broadcast radio DJ, and an Office of Undergraduate Admissions intern. He likes to embroider on clothes, take long walks, and is always down for a chat.
How did studying abroad affect your academic and/or professional career?
Going to Australia allowed me to take classes that Tulane does not offer, such as Aboriginal History and Controversies in Australian History, furthering my enrichment in courses outside of my major. I was also able to take psychology classes that taught me how to use programs like ANOVA, which is extremely relevant in the field of psychology.
How did you explore your hobbies, interests, and passions abroad?
During my time abroad I had plenty of opportunities to travel and experience nature. In the area surrounding Melbourne there are so many different landscapes to explore, and being able to go on all of these road trips has fostered my love for the outdoors. I was able to climb to the top of volcanoes in New Zealand and watch the sunrise from above the clouds in Indonesia. I am extremely interested in history, so being in Australia allowed me to learn more about the Indigenous Australians and their rich history. My travels through southeast Asia gave me the opportunity to learn so much about a region of the world that has been largely overlooked in any history class I've taken.
Why would you recommend your respective abroad program or location?
I would highly recommend the University of Melbourne because they have plenty of resources for exchange students, which means plenty of opportunities to meet other study abroad students and become immersed in Australian culture. You live right in the middle of the city, convenient to museums, libraries, public parks, and a range of activities that are right outside your front door. Not only do you get the experience of a city dweller, you have nature reserves and public parks surrounding the city, exposing you to a whole different side of Australia. Furthermore, Australia has a unique location that enables you to travel to a region of the world you would typically not go to on your own.
What should students consider when applying and preparing for their time abroad?
When applying for your time abroad, I think it is important to consider what you hope to gain out of your experience. If you crave finding independence and want to become comfortable with change, you might want to choose destinations that force you out of your comfort zone. If studying abroad means furthering your professional career, you might want to select universities that have respectable programs for your major. When preparing for your time abroad, it is extremely important to engage in research on the culture for which you wish to immerse yourself in. For those who feel nervous about going abroad, I found it very helpful to write letters to my future self to provide some emotional support.
Did your identity impact your study abroad experience?
Being an American and only being fluent in English definitely impacted my time abroad. Most of the international students I was friends with knew two or even three languages, which has inspired me to work towards becoming fluent in another language. It was also fascinating to understand how people of other nationalities viewed Americans.
Share a story about a time you experienced cultural immersion.
In the state of Victoria, footy is one of the most popular sports. In fact, it is so popular that most people have a day off from school or work for the final match. It is a mixture of football, soccer, and rugby, and is played on a cricket field. I was able to get nearly front row seats to one of the games and learn about all of the rules from the friendly security guards. Although fans going crazy for a sport sounds very American, it felt completely different to experience it with Australians for a sport that I had never even heard of before.
How did studying abroad affect your academic and/or professional career?
Studying abroad helped me to challenge myself academically while also learning to make time for other activities, such as immersing myself in the local culture.
How did you explore your hobbies, interests, and passions abroad?
I made sure to use almost all of my free time to explore the city of Copenhagen, taking advantage of all the modes of transportation and familiarizing myself with every area of the city. I made sure to visit local book shops, cafes, and museums and to walk and bike whenever I was able to. This provided me with a great way to see the city along the way.
Why would you recommend your respective abroad program or location?
DIS Copenhagen was an absolutely amazing program. For starters, they made the process a lot less intimidating by handling complicated logistics (visa, housing, food stipend, transportation from airport, etc.) while also giving you room to challenge yourself. I absolutely loved my classes and professors, as well as the strong emphasis on immersing yourself within the culture during class. On Wednesdays, you have field studies instead of class where you get to go on field trips that are relevant to your course content. Even if the program had been horrible, however, I still would be absolutely obsessed with the City of Copenhagen. I experienced some of the most intense personal growth and moments of mindfulness that I have in my life. The culture is just so positive and has ingrained personal care and happiness into their set of values in a way that I have never seen. I cannot recommend DIS or Copenhagen itself enough.
What should students consider when applying and preparing for their time abroad?
Consider who you are going with and consider going with a smaller group if possible. Also try and look into the program itself to make sure your coursework will be helpful for your major.
Share a story about a time you experienced cultural immersion.
Since DIS places you with a random roommate and you are responsible to take public transportation to get everywhere, I felt as if I was experiencing cultural immersion on a daily basis. I felt as if I was truly living as a resident in Copenhagen, rather than studying abroad there for a few months.
How did studying abroad affect your academic and/or professional career?
All three of the classes I took counted for Tulane credit, whether that be for my major, minor, or Tulane NTC credit. As far as my professional career goes, I still want to go to PA school and abroad hadn’t changed that decision.
How did you explore your hobbies, interests, and passions abroad?
Honesty I just started walking places. Once I got comfortable in the area I was living in picked a new direction every time I wasn’t in class and walked. It helped me get more acclimated to my area and not have to completely rely on maps. Additionally, I frequented new coffee shops whenever I had free time to see where I could find the best iced latte and best place to read or do work. Look up cool tourist attractions in your city and find out where they are and just go to them; there is no harm in looking like a tourist I promise. Also take your city’s public transportation (if they have it)! The London tube was fantastic.
Why would you recommend your respective abroad program or location?
London is truly an amazing city. I never felt bored there. It was such a multicultural environment, both in the people and the cuisine. It was very walkable and is also so close to other countries so traveling is so easy. Also, Matt who was the head of the CIEE program was the best! He had many activities where you could see plays, try new restaurants, etc. and offered great advice!
What should students consider when applying and preparing for their time abroad?
Don’t just go where your friends are going. Being in a new place—especially by yourself—of course is scary (at first) but you’ll grow so much because of it. You’re going to be in your program for a few months at least so you want to be in a place that you’ll love. If you already have a hunch about where you want to go, go! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Did your identity impact your study abroad experience?
Not in the slightest. As I said, London is such a multicultural place where so many people from many walks of life. People are going to love your American accent and ask you so many questions.
Share a story about a time you experienced cultural immersion.
I would say the first time I was able to take the Tube without needing directions beforehand. I truly felt like a true Londoner. Also when someone who was visiting asked me for directions and I was able to help them on my own.
How did studying abroad affect your academic and/or professional career?
Studying abroad in Copenhagen significantly enriched my academic and professional journey. Immersing myself in a new culture broadened my perspectives and enhanced my adaptability skills. The experience fostered international connections and deepened my understanding of global issues, which continues to influence my academic pursuits and professional endeavors.
How did you explore your hobbies, interests, and passions abroad?
During my time abroad, I delved into my interests in art history by going to many museums, galleries, and cultural events in the vibrant city of Copenhagen. Immersing myself in the rich artistic heritage of the city allowed me to deepen my understanding of various artistic movements and styles.
Why would you recommend your respective abroad program or location?
I wholeheartedly recommend the abroad program in Copenhagen because of the profound impact it had on my personal and academic growth. Living in this vibrant city immersed me in a culture that values creativity, innovation, and exploration. From wandering through the charming streets to engaging with local artists and historians, every moment was an opportunity to discover something new about myself and the world around me.
What should students consider when applying and preparing for their time abroad?
When applying and preparing for your time abroad, reflect on what truly makes you feel alive. Consider the climates that energize you - whether it's the warmth of a Mediterranean breeze or the crisp air of a Nordic winter. Delve into your personality and envision yourself thriving amidst the rhythms of different cities and cultures, allowing your heart to guide you to the perfect destination where you'll feel most at home.
Did your identity impact your study abroad experience?
Absolutely, my identity played a significant role in shaping my study abroad experience, influencing everything from how I navigated cultural differences to the connections I formed with locals and fellow students. Embracing and celebrating my identity allowed me to authentically engage with the new environment, fostering personal growth and enriching my overall experience abroad.
Share a story about a time you experienced cultural immersion.
In Copenhagen, I struck up a friendship with a lively group of locals who were die-hard soccer fans. They graciously invited me to tag along to games, and despite my initial hesitations, I found myself immersed in the electric atmosphere of the stadium. Bonding over shared cheers, victories, and defeats, those soccer matches became cherished memories that not only deepened my understanding of Danish culture but also forged lasting connections with newfound friends.
How did studying abroad affect your academic and/or professional career?
Post study abroad, I want to live in Cape Town/South Africa after graduation. Studying abroad gave me the confidence to realize that I could move somewhere 8,000 miles away, without knowing anyone, and thrive academically and professionally. I have always been interested in the idea of living/working abroad, but I now have a clear direction and goal for my future.
How did you explore your hobbies, interests, and passions abroad?
Cape Town is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Almost every day I was able to get outside whether it was surfing, hiking, climbing, camping, diving, (safely) cliff jumping, or just having a relaxed beach day. South Africans and Cape Town travelers alike spend their days in nature, and there exists a beautiful harmony between the people and their environment. Amazing mountain ranges, beaches, animals, communities, forests, and even deserts are everywhere in South Africa. If nature and the outdoors is your passion, South Africa might be the study abroad location for you.
Why would you recommend your respective abroad program or location?
Aside from the stunning landscapes and unmatched nature, I would recommend South Africa for the people. As a 'less popular' study abroad location, there will likely be many opportunities for you to meet locals and make South African friends. The ability to befriend locals is priceless, as you will learn and experience far more than you ever could on your own accords. The IES Health, Culture, and Development program, in particular, focuses on integrative and experiential learning and offers you the chance to travel to Johannesburg, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and more as part of your coursework. Additionally, the program focuses on learning about community development practices and local healthcare systems up-close, and you will be introduced to amazing organizations and communities that will make you fall in love with South Africa ten times over again.
What should students consider when applying and preparing for their time abroad?
While many people have concerns about safety in South Africa, in my experience, as long as you stay alert and aware, you won't feel any less safe than you do in New Orleans. In fact, most South Africans are extremely friendly and welcoming, helping you feel comfortable and supported by the local community. One thing to keep in mind before traveling to any country in the Global South is that the pace of life is likely to be much slower than what you are used to. Things like infrastructure closings, protests/strikes, and a general lack of online information surrounding things like restaurants, hostels, and other forms of accommodation are going to be common. If you are a person who is uncomfortable with being spontaneous or not able/willing to adjust to this kind of lifestyle, I would suggest maybe rethinking your abroad location.
Share a story about a time you experienced cultural immersion.
During my time abroad, I joined the University of Cape Town Mountain and Ski Club (highly recommend, for the record). The club owns a mountain cabin located in a mountain range about 2 hours outside of Cape Town, and one weekend, a group of my friends and I organized a hiking trip to the cabin. The group consisted of about half study abroad students, and half South African students who were regular members of the Mountain and Ski Club. We spent the weekend talking and learning about each other and our respective cultures, and I ended the trip with a new group of South African friends who made my experience for the rest of my time abroad a thousand times more authentic and genuine than it ever could have been on my own.
How did studying abroad affect your academic and/or professional career?
My time studying abroad affected my career goals by showing me that I can continue my academic career outside of the United States. Beyond my academic career it has shown me that there is so much that can only be learned by embracing living in another country.
How did you explore your hobbies, interests, and passions abroad?
I was able to explore my interests of exploring and languages by having the freedom and flexibility to travel over the weekend.
Why would you recommend your respective abroad program or location?
I would recommend coming to Madrid because it is a city for every kind of person. The city has endless activities ranging from free museums to nearby hikes. It is the heart of Spain therefore you have a constant exposure to the culture and neighboring cities.
What should students consider when applying and preparing for their time abroad?
When applying and preparing for their time abroad students should consider practicing cultural appreciation. It helps to come in with a clear mind because it helps with the culture shock.
Did your identity impact your study abroad experience?
My identity as a Hispanic American impacted my study abroad by allowing me to form easier connections with the Spanish students. It was also a common topic of interest for Europeans because they are also just as eager to get to know Americans as we are them.
Share a story about a time you experienced cultural immersion.
A time were I experienced cultural immersion was after a tapas dinner at a small local stop near my apartment. My friend and I were walking home and we noticed there was a group of Spaniards our age singing and dancing inside another restaurant, so we went inside. Upon entering we were immediately embraced and shown how to dance and play the native instruments with them. After the fun we talked to them and they offered us more local drinks and gave us their contact to further show us around.
