Jin Jackson

Jin Jackson

Major: Global Studies
What led you to study abroad? Why did you choose your country/program?

I've always loved traveling and have also always wanted to learn another language. I chose Argentina because it had the Spanish Immersion program that seem like it would be a great way to learn Spanish in a very exciting and adventurous way.

What was the most interesting cultural experience you had abroad?

When traveling around South America I stayed in hostels and was able to meet people from all over the world. It was very interesting to hear where they came from and fun to be able to share our different cultures with one another.

What was the biggest challenge/concern of your study abroad experience? How did you respond?

I was very scared about actually speaking the new language. One of my problems in high school when taking Spanish classes was that I didn't really have anyone to practice speaking with; therefore I had always been scared to speak it to anyone who tried to practice with me. Then abroad it was a sink or swim moment where I encountered people who didn't know English, so I was forced to practice my Spanish. Because of these experiences I improved my Spanish immensely and made many new friends from South America.

Describe a typical day for you abroad.

I would wake up and have breakfast. Then I would go to the gym and then to my University. I would eat lunch with my friends before class then go to class from 1:30-5:30. After school sometimes we'd all grab a drink, go home do some homework and then have dinner with our host families. Many of the nights of the week, after dinner we would go to the bars and then go to the clubs (boliches) and stay out until sunrise.

What coursework did you take while abroad? How did courses abroad compare with Berkeley classes?

I took two Spanish classes and then a history class about the history or Argentina. The course load was much easier than Berkeley classes.

What was the most memorable/meaningful aspect of your time abroad?

I loved everyone I met; especially the people in the program. I was able to make really tight friendships with them and travel with them around South America. My travels during my abroad experience were the most memorable to me.

What impact did studying abroad have on you personally?

I know am considering integrating traveling into my future career. I love it so much and loving being able to immerse myself in other cultures.

What would you recommend to students considering studying abroad, especially to your country or program?

I would recommend that each student really take advantage of their short time abroad. The time goes by very quickly and it's important to really embrace being in a new country even if it's out of one's comfort zone--try the new foods, meet new people, practice the new language etc.