Studying abroad offers a unique opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally while going on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. High Hopes scholars Ben Johnson, Anais Arias-Aragon, and Jalena Keane-Lee (among others) took on the challenge and studied abroad last semester. Here they talk about what they loved about the experience.
Jalena Keane-Lee
2013 High Hopes Scholar
Wellesley College
Major: Political Science/Cinema and Media Studies
Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I got to study film in Prague and create, direct and edit a short 16mm narrative film. Studying abroad confirmed my passion for film and gave me the skills to feel confident pursuing it further both now that I’m back and post-grad. I met wonderful people whom I never would have crossed paths with otherwise, and got to live outside the United States for the first time. I fell in love with film, with travel, while also realizing how special Wellesley is and how important and unique the lessons of a women’s college are to my worldview.
2012 High Hopes Scholar
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Major: Architecture
When reflecting on the [study] abroad experience, I can’t help but smile. I unexpectedly met so many mind-opening, people, families, and communities who welcomed me with open arms. Everyone and everywhere has a story, whether its a metropolitan city or a town with 21 people and one street. It was nice to go at my own pace and discover the stories out there, waiting to be shared and experienced again. Going abroad is a great chance everyone should take if given. You never know what adventures will happen next.
2013 High Hopes Scholar
Boston University
Major: Music Theory and Composition
During the fall semester of 2015 I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in London at the Royal College of Music. There I had countless opportunities to perform my music in various venues accross the city and even have a solo viola work premiered at the National Portrait Gallery. In addition to my incredible experiences in London, due to its central location I was also able to travel to Istanbul, Turkey and Seville, Spain and that really expanded my view of the world and different cultures. Here is a picture my Turkish friend (whom had been my roommate at Boston University) took of me in Istanbul!
2013 High Hopes Scholar
George Washington University
Major: English and Women’s Studies
There’s no doubt in my mind that choosing to study abroad in Cape Town was one of the best decisions I’ve made in college. I was surrounded by the most beautiful mountains, oceans, and cityscapes that never got old. As an English and Women’s Studies double major, I really wanted to study more postcolonial and non-Western literature, as well as examine gender roles outside of the American perspective that I get at my home school, GW. I was not disappointed during my time at University of Cape Town, because it was the most enriching educational experience I have ever had. South Africa still has a long way to go (so does the US) but I feel incredibly privileged to have lived there for five months.
