Submitted by Katherine Chaney on the 2018 winter session program in Vietnam and Cambodia sponsored by the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics…
Studying abroad is one of the best ways to to make new friends and meet different people from around the world. After just one week, the friendships I have gained with not only the students in my group, but also the locals and other travelers have made me love the whole experience that much more. Despite the language barrier and the variety of personalities, there is always a single factor that connects you with someone else. It can be your love for travel, your appreciation for the fantastic street food, your interest in global history or simply that you both come from the East Coast of the United States. Regardless of what the link between you both may be, it has driven me to realize how many amazing people inhabit the world. When you step outside your comfort zone and our cozy college town of Newark, DE, it really opens up your eyes to the different cultures, customs, backgrounds, economic standpoints and unique traits that makeup each individual. It’s not just the cities, the sights or the attractions that change you while traveling, but the people you meet along the way that enhance your journey. Even if your friendship only lasts a day, the whole program or possibly even beyond your return home, each one adds value to your experience. Some, may even be considered life changing.