The University of Alabama
Cyber Security & Management Information Systems – Graduation May 2025
Where did you study abroad?
London, England
Why is / was studying abroad important to your undergraduate experience?
As someone who went to college in the same state as they grew up in, it was important to get out of the bubble of what I understood as the world. Going abroad introduced the idea of moving away into my future plans. With so many cultural differences every where you go, the experience is always something I’ll never forget.
How did you select your study abroad program?
A first-gen faculty member referred me to a interest meeting for a study abroad scholarship program after I expressed that I would love to travel but never thought it’d be in the cards for a student with my financial background.
How did you grow during your study abroad experience?
As a child of immigrants, I’ve always grown up with a strong determination to “climb the corporate ladder” because I associated a large salary with happiness. This desire caused a lot of self-induced stress from the expectation to perform. After going abroad and experiencing different cultures, I’ve realized that I don’t want to live to work— I want to work to live. Peace and happiness does not have to be a final destination, and the experiences and memories I’ve made abroad taught me that.
What was your favorite excursion as part of your study abroad experience?
Making friends with other students at my institution abroad, we took a weekend trip to Milan, Italy. Here, we saw beautiful architecture, shopped in one of the fashion capital of the world, and saw a Lumineer’s concert for $30!
What advice would you offer other AFF scholars who are interested in studying abroad?
Money will come back, memories last forever. GO! make weekend getaway trips as far in advance as you can so flights will be cheap – you are bound to get homesick, but do your best to spend your time in company with others and immerse yourself in activities in your city to push through the feelings of loneliness. – having a full itinerary is great, but walking around and eating somewhere spontaneous is also great!