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During my time in the Galapagos, I was able to visit two islands: San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz. While I was there, we went to visit local farms to learn about how produce is grown and distributed to the community. We also visited research stations where we learned how locals are testing and monitoring the ecosystems around the island. Additionally, we visited water and waste facilities sites, tortoise farms, and other local areas where we learned more about native species and the overall impact of climate change.

As a first-generation student, this has been an amazing opportunity that has curated memories I will never forget! Shadowing doctors from different branches has broadened my perspectives of the healthcare field internationally. I have made new connections with some amazing and kind doctors at IRCCS Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri. Through this opportunity, I’ve gained an even deeper understanding of how open-mindedness plays an important role when going abroad and celebrating other cultures that truly bring out the richness of my experiences in Italy. 

Jessalyn Beninati

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. My friends and I would always say, “When are we going to be in Italy in our twenties again." I learned so much not only in my classes but from just immersing myself in a new culture. I visited over 10 different cities in Italy in six weeks. I traveled with girls I had met only a few weeks ago. I met friends who I had gone to school with in Eugene but had never met until we came to Italy. I met some friends I know I will keep long after the program and after college.

My summer in Tokyo was an unforgettable experience that I will cherish forever. Having grown up in South Korea, I had always been curious about Japan, our neighboring country. I was fortunate enough to spend two months living in Tokyo, immersing myself in its culture through the UO GlobalWorks Internship Program. I interned at a start-up in Shibuya. Being in Japan during the summer also meant I got to experience the vibrant festival season. One of the most memorable events was the Bon Odori Matsuri, a festival celebrating the homecoming of ancestors.

Studying abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, was an incredible experience that I highly recommend. During my month-long course on bicycle urbanism, I cycled daily, explored the city, took trips to Sweden, swam in the harbor, and enjoyed the beaches. Studying abroad gives students a chance to meet people from all over the world, and gain independence. My biggest takeaway was how grateful I am to have access to resources as a student, making experiences like this possible. What I loved most were the daily bike rides, the ease of using the metro, and Copenhagen's awesome bakeries.

Studying abroad in London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff led by Dr. Yoav Dubinsky was an amazing experience. As someone who wants to enter the sports business, this program provided useful insights into the industry. It not only featured tours and events surrounding sports but also in-depth meetings and interviews with professionals across the UK. Over a month, we toured stadiums like Stamford Bridge, Wembley, Lords, and Twickenham. We attended events like Wimbledon and an England Women’s cricket match.

Studying abroad through Wildlands was an experience I will never forget. Belize is such a beautiful place, and the people there made it a hundred times better. Our host families provided meals that exceeded my expectations, and there was never a moment when I was hungry or bored. We observed howler monkeys, jaguars, and nurse sharks, and learned about local conservation efforts that I am excited to bring back to the U.S. Through this trip, I learned so much about tropical ecosystems and connected with students from across the nation.

Studying at Waseda University for a term was so amazing and unforgettable. I met so many great people and got to reunite with some of my friends who live in Japan which was so fun. Studying abroad was the opportunity of a lifetime and I encourage anyone who's contemplating it to try! There are so many scholarships available so get in touch with advisors or check online at the GEO website to see which ones you qualify for! Being able to experience living in a new country with a different culture was so exciting and it opened my mind to many things.

Returning to the US and settling back into my routine in Eugene was an eye-opening experience that deepened my appreciation for both cultures. While the differences between Italy and the US were immediately noticeable when I first arrived in Italy, it wasn’t until I came back that I truly understood the nuances. Everyday conveniences like iced coffee and air conditioning—things I had taken for granted—became more appreciated after living in a place where they weren’t as common.

Hey everyone! I've just wrapped up my incredible study abroad experience in Tokyo. I thought I'd share my journey of readjustment and some pieces of wisdom I've picked up along the way.