Meet Gustavo J. Sanchez, a junior with majors in history and political science and a minor in international studies at Kent State University.
This summer, Sanchez participated in one of the university’s study abroad programs, travelling to Germany. His ten-day trip gave Gustavo the opportunity to immerse himself in German art, culture and history. He came home with plenty of memories and a new outlook on his future.
Why Study Abroad?
Sanchez’s interest in study abroad programs first stemmed from a desire to get more involved on campus; he was encouraged to consider studying abroad by the history department’s Dr. Nicholas Ostrum and the political science department’s Dr. Gabriella Paar-Jakil. They worked together on the Germany trip and helped make the travel process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Sanchez has always been curious about global politics and different cultures, so he jumped at the chance. It was his first time traveling outside the country.
Making the Most of the Trip
The focus of the trip was 20th century German history and how countries can reconcile after traumatic events. Participants visited former concentration camps and Holocaust memorials, discussing how German culture society has made efforts to move past this traumatic moment in history. Gustavo described this experience as visceral yet necessary.
At the same time, however, students had opportunities to take the lead in their own studies and focus on what interested them. As a history major, Sanchez found himself drawn to historical sites, museums and cathedrals, hoping to better understand the past.
This experience changed how he sees the world. It introduced him to reconciliation in different countries as a branch of study, and it also opened his eyes to the diversity of cultures and showed him that international travel isn’t nearly as overwhelming as he expected. His biggest takeaway? No matter where people come from, they’re all connected.
“It made me more comfortable with being out of a familiar territory, you know, being across the world,” Gustavo explained. “It also immersed me into different cultures and showed that we're all the same, really.”
Next Steps
That perspective has shaped how Sanchez thinks about his own education. He realized he has a lot in common with students around the world, who are all working toward a good education, a successful career and a happy life. The realization has motivated him to be a better student and to not take his opportunities for granted.
The trip also reshaped his plans for the future. Sanchez once expected to build his career in the United States, but he is now considering a more global path. He is open to joining more study abroad programs to continue studying reconciliation across different cultures. Rwanda, South Korea, France and even a return trip to Germany are all on his list. Seeing how many opportunities exist around the world has inspired him not to hold himself back.
Advice for Future Study Abroad Students
Sanchez has two tips for students thinking about studying abroad. First, take advantage of the many scholarships available, which often go unused. Second, don’t stress too much about the travel process.
His own nerves about leaving the country faded as soon as he arrived in Germany, he said, and the program took care of anything that might have caused worry.
