Sharrak's advice for studying abroad
Text translation
Advice & Tips From A WSU Student
Aryana Sharrakk, major, biochemistry and chemical biology. minor, french
One thing I never left home without....
.... CASH. When I went to Paris, I relied on my credit card because I was afraid someone would steal my money. However, I was locked out of my credit card due to confusion over my traveling and I didn't have money for a couple of days. Always bring at least $100 or more with you so that you're never stranded without money and it gives you time to find an ATM!
One piece of advise for studying abroad....
.... LOSE ALL PRIOR ASSUMPTIONS AND EXPECTATIONS about the place and people. Yes, it's important to understand the culture and norms before traveling, but don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and learn something about the place that you didn't know before. Especially when I was traveling in Uganda, I had to learn to be adaptable to things like suddenly losing power or water. It's all part of the learning process, so make sure to have fun!
How this experience has shaped my outlook or view....
.... I NOW THINK OF MY COMMUNITY AS A GREATER GLOBAL COMMUNITY. I've traveled to faraway rural communities that most people haven't even heard of. I hope to one day serve these communities as a physician and researcher. I wouldn't have been so knowledgeable or open-minded if it wasn't for my time studying abroad.
In May 2013, I studied abroad in Paris, France for lo days, focusing on the subject of art and architecture. I utilized my French language skills to make my way around the city. It was exciting that I did this so early in my undergraduate career, because later when I pursued my French minor I was able to refer back to my time in Paris and the firsthand experience I had with the French language and culture.
So terrified while zip-lining across the river in Toledo, Spain
Achieving my life dream of visiting the Eiffel Tower
I traveled to Kabale, Uganda to work with the Kigezi Healthcare Foundation (KIHEFO) as a student from GlobeMed. I stayed there for one month in July 2015 in the KIHEFO apartments for volunteers and will return in August 2016 for another month. I utilized my French language skills when I was in Rwanda before traveling to Uganda. I also picked up some of the local languages of Rukiga during my stay in Kabale.
In March 2016, I traveled to Toledo, Spain during spring break with the Atlantis Project to shadow the physicians every day in the hospital. This opportunity allowed me to observe healthcare in another developed nation and see the role of universal healthcare in a hospital setting. I've always studied French, and so I really struggled with Spanish during this trip. I hope to pick up more Spanish in the future.