What CIEE Gave Me

Written by: Natasha Schaeffer

　I’m sure you’ve heard people say that study abroad can change your life; I know I did, and I thought, “Yeah, I’m sure”. Studying abroad is something that can feel time consuming and expensive, from tuition cost to paperwork. It might seem like too big of a hassle for a short amount of time, or like that money could go somewhere else.  I can’t tell you what the best answer is, but what I can tell you is how I could have never imagined the unadulterated joy my time in Kyoto, Japan gave me. 

　Once I saw the study abroad option from CIEE through my school, I wanted nothing more than to go. Admittedly, I assumed I would have to apply more than once, and was prepared for rejection towards Summer Block I. That was not the case, and I spent the next few months crunching through courses until it was time for classes. With no friends joining me, I decided to give the semester my all. As an online student, I wanted to enjoy on-campus life to the fullest. It’s hard to make lasting friendships from classes where you don’t spend time together. I joined the Ambassador Abroad Program and the student council, things I normally wouldn’t be able to do. The Ambassador Abroad Program is a great way to engage with social media while also sharing your experiences with other students. Through social posts, you can share from suggested topics or create your own to showcase how you spent your time. The student council is a perfect way to engage with students in your program while also helping CIEE staff with community efforts. Through weekly meetings, the student council can work through any student grievances within their scope or manage get-togethers or game nights to deepen bonds. 

　The greatest thing CIEE Kyoto gave me was deep bonds with people I never would have met without this program. CIEE staff initiated some wonderful excursions for students to participate in, which helped to form my close friendships through the semester. While making friends is something that I believe would be everyone’s goal during their time abroad, especially if someone is feeling lonely, I wasn’t expecting my friendships to be so deep. 

　The time I spent in Kyoto with my gaggle of friends created memories I’ll never forget. From karaoke all night, to nights in the classroom doing homework together, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. My advice to upcoming CIEE students is to take the risk. Reach out to the person you’re interested in learning more about. Find a mountain and climb it (safely) together. Live your block to the fullest.