Study abroad testimonies

"I’m so glad I was able to come to Kobe, Japan. I’ve been able to make so many new friends and experience so many new things that I would have never had the chance to do if I had just stayed in the U.S. On top of that, I’ve been able to improve my Japanese, and see my friends who studied abroad at SMU over the years. It truly has been a wonderful experience!" –Jesse Mailhot, Japan 2011

"Last year, I took a huge risk and spent a semester abroad in Gold Coast, Australia. It was an amazing, intense experience, full of adventures and making friends from places all around the world. What I didn’t expect was that I would be faced with the pressure to compromise on the convictions to which I have always held true. This, from people who didn’t know me well enough to know the difference. I had to make a quick decision about what kind of person I wanted to be, and what I settled on was… myself. Probably the realization that helped me define myself and grow the most was this: However I may grow and adapt, I can be genuinely the same person to everyone I meet, even on the other side of the world." –Allie McGhee, Australia 2011

“The most vital aspect of this tour was undoubtedly the home stays…No amount of sightseeing or touring can live up to or account for the quality of experience achieved from a home stay, and direct interaction with local students, staff, and their families.” – Joseph Patti, 2011 Japan Cultural Exchange Tour

“Saint Martin's gave me this opportunity and I told myself when I applied to study abroad that nothing like this experience will fall in my hands again. So, take chances and trust yourself because the rest will unfold as it is meant to!” – Sancha Elevado, England 2010

“I couldn't possibly recommend this experience to my friends anymore! I've learned about myself, others and the world in general so much. It has been, in a word, great.” – Dennis Neely, Australia 2010

“…the locals were kind and receiving from the moment I stepped off the train platform in Petrozavodsk…All the students we met were patient, outgoing and understanding. They were constantly asking questions and providing us with opportunities to really experience the life and culture of Russia.” – Brian Caughlan, 2010 Russia Tour

“The unique experience of studying abroad changed my world view and truly allowed me to become a global citizen.” - Danny Wallin, Japan 2008-‘09

“Every semester I urge my students to investigate study abroad possibilities. “Don’t think you want to? Don’t think you have the money? Or time? These barriers can be worked through,” I say. “Just go speak with someone in the Office of International Programs and Development,” I urge them. “Because once you study in a foreign country, you will never be the same person. Your horizons will expand and you will not look back. But, here’s the catch: you must go, and learn this for yourself.”” - Jeff Birkenstein, PhD. SMU English professor