Skyhawks on Studying Overseas

Stonehill students offer tips to others seeking to go global.

by the Office of Communications & Media Relations
December 17, 2024
Kaya DeAngelis ’26 at Mount Fuji on the Japanese island of Honshu.

From the stunning Austrian Alps to the majestic Galway Bay, Stonehill College students can visit many unique locales with support of the Office of International Programs. Whether they’re studying abroad, interning internationally, or participating in a service immersion experience, their time away from campus empowers them to discover a world of possibility.  

“Going abroad is such a worthwhile experience. When you travel, the lessons you learn about yourself and others can be truly transformative. My office is committed to helping Stonehill students connect with travel opportunities that suit their unique goals, interests and needs,” said Hillary Sabbagh, director of international programs. 

To provide some insight to Skyhawks interested in taking flight, we recently asked Stonehill students who have traveled abroad for their best advice on living and learning in another country. 

Navigating Unfamiliar Territory 

“Embrace the discomfort that can come with being abroad. Living in a new location, away from everything you know, gives you the opportunity to grow as an individual and change your perspective on the world. Researching the country's culture and customs and adapting to them is such a rewarding and fulfilling experience that has truly shaped who I am as a person and can change your life too if you remain open.” –Caleigh Fitzgerald ’25 (studied in Sevilla, Spain) 

“Ask questions. Oftentimes, people are friendly and more than willing to help clear up any confusion. So long as you ask politely and respectfully, people are understanding. Also, it’s a great way to start up conversations with other people to get to know them.” –William Sparrow ’25 (studied in Limerick, Ireland) 

Marissa Such ’25 (far left) with friends in Florence, Italy.

Shannon Corcoran '25 at the top of the Duomo in Florence, Italy.

Meghan Sambrook '25 in Athens, Greece.

While in Spain, Caleigh Fitzgerald ’25 visited the Plaza de España during Feria de Sevilla, an annual festival.

Embracing New Cultural Experiences 

“Get involved! Trying new food, learning dances, and learning Greece's historical past has been an essential part of my educational experience. I wish I could do it all again!” –Meghan Sambrook '25 (studied in Athens, Greece) 

“Make connections with locals, whether that means having a regular place you stop for a morning coffee or the local grocery store owner that you spark a friendship with. Creating a daily routine in the country where you are living allows you to be immersed in their culture and experience different things. Try to spend as much time as you can outside of your apartment.” –Shannon Corcoran ’25 (studied in Perugia, Italy) 

Fostering Invaluable Connections 

“Do your best to get to know your professors at the university you are visiting. Don’t be afraid to go to their office hours and get to know them better, ask their advice on living in the country, or talk about their experiences. Be open and do your best to meet new people all the time. There is always so much to be learned from others.” –Kaya DeAngelis ’26 (studied in Tokyo, Japan) 

“I really believe it's beneficial to know the language of the country you are visiting. Locals appreciate it when you even try to speak their language. In addition, when it comes to transportation or visiting places like the grocery store, having a basic level of the language reduces stress and makes you feel more comfortable where you are staying.” –Marissa Such ’25 (studied in Florence, Italy) 

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