Gianna’s Study Abroad Advice
Where do you usually live and what school do/did you attend?
I am originally from Melbourne, Australia and I go to Deakin University.
Where did you study abroad and why did you choose to study there?
I am currently attending Kansas State University, in Manhattan KS. I chose this university because I wanted a small town college experience, as opposed to a city college like my home university.
How long did you study abroad for?
I am currently in the middle of a year long exchange.
What was your favorite part about studying abroad?
I love experiencing the different attitudes and experiences that American college and dorm life bring, and meeting so many people that I will be friends with for life! The amount of travel I have done over the summer break is another experience I will never forget!
What was the easiest adjustment for you while abroad?
The easiest adjustment I’ve had is adapting to American culture. It is not so different that I’ve had a massive culture shock, but it’s different enough to keep things exciting and interesting constantly!
What was the most difficult adjustment?
The most difficult adjustment was probably a tie between having to share a bathroom with 4 showers between 30 girls, and the inability to communicate with people back home at the right time! The amount of times I have accidentally woken people up at home is ridiculous!
Do you have any embarrassing stories that you’d be willing to share?
Before coming to Manhattan, I had never seen snow before, as it doesn’t get cold enough in my part of Melbourne to snow. At first I was amazed and in awe, until I realized you had to walk through the freezing cold across campus in it. And let me tell you, you’re not walking on snow! You’re walking on ice! Just as I thought I was getting the hang of it, I lost my footing and stacked it in front of about 10 people. Not my finest hour.
If you could give one piece of advice for future study abroad students, what would that be?
Take every opportunity that you can – make friends with everybody you live with, because they will become your family, friends and chauffeurs! Take the day trip to KC to watch a baseball game; book Spring Break in the Bahamas because it’s close, try Kansas Dirt (a weirdly amazing dessert) and travel everywhere you possibly can. You will never regret the amazing experiences gained, friends made and abilities picked up on the way. Have the best time you possibly can!
Thanks for the great advice, Gianna!
About the Author
Rachel Budke Rachel is a senior at Kansas State University, where she is studying Bakery Science. In the fall of 2013 she studied abroad in Florence, Italy. She loves cooking, photography and DIY projects.
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