Study Abroad Spotlight: Savannah Newton

Program and Location:

Spring, Tilburg University; Tilburg, Netherlands

Why did you choose to study abroad?

After my experience studying abroad for the summer, I knew I wanted to go for an entire semester. The opportunities to travel while living in Europe are endless and I was able to fully submerge myself into their culture, making the experience feel more authentic.

What did you learn about yourself?

I learned great life lessons and gained a number of personal strengths. Moving to another country where you don’t know anyone is intimidating but the experience brought out qualities that I never knew you needed, especially going to work after graduation. Appreciation of differing cultures, courage, independence, authenticity, and self-assurance were just a few traits I gained through studying abroad.

What was one of your favorite parts of your program?

Orientation Week was the best part of my program. Tilburg University student organizations schedule activities, parties, city tours, dinners, excursions, and concerts for your first week to make you feel more at home and to help you meet other international or Dutch students that are starting too.

What advice do you have to future study abroad students?

Don’t let fear or uncertainty keep you from doing something you really want to do while you’re over there. Find a group that holds similar travelling goals and plan trips! You could even plan one the day before and still have the best time.

How did your study abroad experience prepare you for your future career?

Studying abroad taught me a number of important life lessons that I’ve come to use in my current internships and in my future career after graduation. Having the courage to walk into an office and introduce yourself to people that manage your manager is an important skill to have but will make you a more memorable employee. Also having the confidence to ask questions and not feel like you have to do it all by yourself is another important factor in starting a new position that studying abroad taught me.

Would you do it again?

Yes!

This post was originally published in Study Abroad.