Student Stories

If you have any interest in studying abroad, talk to people who have participated in a program, reach out to the program director, check out the picture on the program website, or see if you can find photos/stories on the CALS Study Abroad Instagram!

My advice for other students interested in studying abroad is to apply for as many scholarships as you can. It's way more fun to spend money in the country you are visiting and experience new things than stress about payments for the semester. School should not be the only reason you want to study abroad, so having a little extra money for experiences is definitely worth it.

My study abroad experience was the highlight of my college experience, and I could not be more thankful to have had this experience!

I have learned so much more about myself and what I want out of my career from studying abroad on these two trips than any other experience.

Do your research, but also, just take the leap. Studying abroad is going to seem a bit daunting, but as long as you know you want to do this, you will be fine.

I would highly recommend to anyone thinking about studying abroad to do it. I found it so enriching and structured with a perfect balance of free time and scheduled activities. It was such a interactive way to travel and I gained so many valuable skills and experiences along the way.

Students interested in studying abroad should go for it! Make sure you understand the purpose of the trip and aren't simply going because it sounds fun. Get to know your professors, they may help you with references and tidbits of knowledge down the line.

“Reflecting on my experience, the American Farm School, Greece, semester-long program opened my eyes to the world differently. I came back more confident in myself!”

Never be afraid to try something new or step outside of your comfort zone because you never know who you'll meet and the unforgettable memories you could make!

These trips are the experience of a lifetime. The instructors put so much thought and effort into the specifics of the trip and the stops you’ll take. It’s the perfect mix of learning while traveling and enjoying a new place!

Developing relationships with people from a different country is a unique experience that comes with studying abroad that you wouldn't normally have when traveling to a country independently.

If you ever get the opportunity to study abroad take it! Studying abroad opens your mind up to ways you did not even realize you could learn! The Costa Rica program made my education back at ISU much more creative when learning about traditional agronomic practices.

The Comparing Food Systems - Iowa vs. California Study USA program opened my eyes to the many opportunities California offers through agriculture and food, whether in the fields or in food processing for consumers. For students with an interest in dairy, agriculture, produce, seafood, or food companies in general, this trip provides so many opportunities and experiences that are involved in agriculture!

I knew that the experiences provided while studying abroad were incomparable to those you get when you just vacation on your own, so I wanted to capitalize on those opportunities provided by Iowa State University and the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences while I had the chance.

Studying abroad helped me learn that there is so much out there and there is always something new you can learn, experience, and see. The world is a big place with a multitude of cultures, places, and people.

Any student interested in studying abroad should jump on the opportunities offered by the college! The values and new perspectives you gain through experiencing different cultures cannot be obtained in the classroom or on campus.

This experience helped me grow in all realms through a wider academic scope of biology, experience with research, knowing more like-minded students on campus, meeting amazing and smart individuals in Roatan, and gaining experience at traveling. Although I was nervous before, this experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me grow into a more experienced student and overall person.

The biggest culture shock for me was the language barrier. I learned more French during my 4-month program than I could have in years of language study. There is no better way to learn a new language than being immersed in a culture where the language is spoken, and you’re forced to interact and communicate daily with others speaking the language.

Studying abroad was the best decision of my college career. You don’t get these opportunities or accessibility to these types of opportunities for the price you pay and the experience you gain!

As a transfer student, I didn’t think I would have the flexibility to study abroad, but I found out that was not the case and have now participated in two study abroad programs and two Study USA domestic travel courses.

One of the biggest things I got from this experience was a better appreciation for all different cultures. I was able to leave with a more open mind for the world and I am very grateful for my time spent in Europe.

Studying abroad was hands down one of the best decisions I’ve made. The knowledge and experiences I gained are unmatched. Not only did I get to live in Greece for three months, but I also got to travel to different countries in Europe. Now I am planning my next trip(s) abroad!

Studying abroad has provided me with a transformative experience to becoming a well-rounded, culturally educated individual. The independence derived from my time abroad encourages new friendships, cultural appreciation, and just an all-around amazing time!

This study abroad opportunity opened my eyes to the food insecurity problems people are facing around the world. Dr. Burras made the experiences practical and more digestible than anything I could have learned in a classroom setting.