Learn It, Live It, Love It

“Real-life experience cannot be taught in books,” said Jonathan Doerrfeld (Management ’07) after spending a semester studying in Chile. “I could have stayed in the States and studied in my room or practiced my Spanish language skills with friends, but English still surrounds you everywhere you go. I don’t think I could have truly learned Spanish without studying abroad or being immersed in a culture like this.”

As a business major with a Spanish minor, being able to speak Spanish fluently will put Jonathan in good stead with potential employers. “The career I choose will include Spanish because I love the language and culture. My study abroad experience advanced my ability in a language that will soon be necessary for all business majors, especially in the United States.”

UNI study abroad students travel to various countries, each one returning home a changed person with new insights and a greater appreciation for international business and culture. Naturally, they’re excited about their study abroad country and want fellow students to study there as well. For Jonathan, Chile was the only choice. He was drawn to being able to live with a host family, which he says is absolutely critical; the beautiful weather year-round; the close proximity to the ocean; and the opportunity to experience South America.

Jonathan realizes, of course, that study abroad is about more than just a beautiful setting. “The program places you in a different country full of people who speak a different language and who may look and live differently. The culture shock isn’t fun, but once you get over that hump, the learning really begins and things get a lot easier!”

Jonathan has additional insights for students interested in studying abroad:
1. Research your destination.
2. Plan your trip well in advance.
3. Follow the U.S. government’s suggestions for obtaining a visa.
4. If you can, live with a host family.
5. Take advantage of your experience because you may never have the chance again.
6. Be flexible. Things don’t always go as planned, so keep an open mind!

Studying in Chile has been a life-changing experience for Jonathan. “This is definitely the first of many adventures I plan to take to a foreign country. I guess you could say the travel bug has found its way inside of me!”

Learn more about UNI’s study abroad program at www.cba.uni.edu/international/index.cfm.


Updated 18-Nov-08