Ainsley Wright, IUPUI Senior, answers questions about studying abroad in Bavaria + Lombardia.
What attracted you to the program?
I was excited about being able to explore Germany and Italy both, but especially the Bavarian Alps region. It has always been a dream to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, and I knew that was one of the excursions. More so, I was excited about the prospect of partnering and collaborating with students from Universität Augsburg and Università degli Studi di Bergamo!
What is your favorite memory, story, or experience you had while participating in the program?
My favorite experience has to be the farewell dinner in Bergamo after giving our final presentations. It was such a fun night and after spending the last three weeks together, we all knew each other and the area well. The food in Italy was amazing, and walking around in Citta Alta at night was beautiful. Though, tied for first place is the free weekend we had while in Germany. My friends and I impulsively went to a Harry Styles concert in Munich, and then to Salzburg in Austria early the next day! Exhausting, but totally worth it. In second place is the bus ride through the Alps in Switzerland to get to Bergamo, Italy, I have never had a road trip be so gorgeous!
What advice would you give students who are hesitant about studying abroad or participating in the program?
Participating in this program was the first time I had ever left the country, and I was so nervous about traveling alone internationally. It’s safe to say, everything worked out just fine! Doing a study abroad program, like this one, is a great way to see a place you otherwise wouldn’t. I can’t say I would have ever found myself in Bergamo or Augsburg, but I had an amazing time in both cities! It is also a great opportunity to meet both new people abroad and IU students! Truly, of my four years as an undergrad, studying abroad has been one of the most fun and educational parts and opened so many doors to jobs, higher education, and travel opportunities in the future. I cannot recommend enough to anyone who is seeking to expand their world view by learning new cultures, subjects, and making new friends!
How has studying abroad, or the program in general, benefitted you as a person?
Because of this experience, I am more independent and confident in both my traveling and problem-solving skills. I’ve already planned a trip to London this winter break, which I never would have done without previous international traveling experience. Mainly, study abroad has widened my perspective on the world and cultural affairs, and created lifelong friends along the way!
Anything else you’d like to add?
Truly an experience of a lifetime, and one I will never forget!
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