Traveling Greyhounds
Many students—at Moravian College as well as other colleges and universities—harbor some trepidation about going abroad. They face a fear of the unknown and the challenges of navigating a new culture, especially in a country where English is not the first language. Cost, too, is a concern. But when curiosity compels a student to take the leap, he or she experiences wonder, learning, and growth.
Luke Peterson ’19
Hometown: Hope, New Jersey
Major: Music composition with a minor in environmental science
Study-abroad program: Semester abroad at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
What impact did this experience have on you?
I learned a great deal about the landscape, culture, and history of Australia, and I experienced the lifestyle through the friendships I made. I saw America and the world through Australian eyes, and I learned a lot about myself—my strengths and weaknesses. I saw more clearly who I am as a person.
Mike Gallo ’19
Hometown: Clayton, North Carolina
Major: Biochemistry and public health
Study-abroad program: 2017 May Term course in Intercultural Communication & Global Perspectives (Colombia). This trip focused on practical and theoretical insights into intercultural communication in an increasingly globalized and diverse society. We explored Colombia as a case study for multiculturalism, urban revitalization, sustainability, regional conflict, cultural identity, inequality, and social justice.
What impact did this experience have on you?
I can say with the utmost confidence that studying abroad in Colombia was the most transformative experience of my life. The trip expanded my worldview and constantly challenged me to become a better communicator and to be much more open-minded to the experiences and realities of others. This first-time experience traveling abroad served as a catalyst that sparked my decision to pursue a globally-oriented career in medicine.
Taylor Garza ’19
Hometown: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Major: Spanish with pre-K–12 education certification
Study-abroad program: Through the Knowledge Exchange Institution (KEI), I had an opportunity to intern at a private school in Ecuador, Colegio Americano, where I was an assistant Spanish teacher.
What impact did this experience have on you?
I became proficient in Spanish and enjoyed the experience of living in another country. I specifically chose to intern at the elementary-school level because I want to enhance my application to potential future employers, like the Bethlehem Area School District, which recently introduced Spanish in elementary-level education.
Shianne Reimer ’20
Hometown: Whitehall, Pennsylvania
Major: History and German
Study-abroad program: May Term course in Exploring Culture, Peacebuilding, and the Legacies of War (Japan). We visited four cities in Japan—Osaka, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and Kyoto—and met with many people, including several university students, who are interested in developing peace cultures around the world. In addition, we had the opportunity to hear from hibakusha, individuals who had survived the nuclear bombing of World War II.
What impact did this experience have on you?
Going to Japan made me much more open-minded to new experiences. Before going, I wasn’t interested in trying new things, but Japan almost forces you to do that. It pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best ways. I also learned from the people of Japan to be more kind. They are so willing to help, even with a language barrier, that when I came back to the United States, I wanted to continue the kindness that I received.