Jack Roberts' Spotlight
Jack Roberts
About Jack
Jack is a third-year student at Penn State University Park majoring in Economics. Over the spring 2023 semester, Jack studied abroad in Vienna through the Penn State-approved IES: Vienna program.
Continue reading to learn more about Jack's highlights of his time in Vienna in his own words, why Jack chose his program, how Jack improved their language skills, lessons he learned, how he'll use this experience to advance his professional development, and Jack's advice for students interested in studying abroad!
Jack overlooking Budapest, Hungary after he and his friend hiked a hill north of the city
Picture Jack took of a city block near St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, Austria
Jack's Education Abroad Experience
"I wanted to go somewhere German-speaking, and away from the typical Mediterranean and UK destinations. Central Europe has always fascinated me as a point of contention and lore in the history of the continent. The program was affordable as I was able to apply my financial aid towards the price of the program.
During my education abroad experience, I was able to not only complete courses relevant to my field of study but also participate in a semester-long internship with a local Austrian consulting firm. Feeling accomplished academically made excursions to other places in Austria and beyond feel deserved. One of my favorite excursions was exploring Budapest and hiking the city with a friend.
People are people everywhere you go. Despite differences in looks and languages, you find kids in Czechia still enjoy the angles of life like you do. Everyone goes to school, wants to fall in love, and likes a quality pint of beer. Western culture is more homogenous than I thought it was before leaving.
I think my time abroad gave me a chance to develop independence, foster my curiosity, and understand that one of the least important things in your life is your job. The world is so big, and financial support is vital to ever see it.
Understand that the conditions in your life right now that make this possible may never formulate again. You are right now, in college, at the most wonderful stage of your existence to do something bold like going overseas. The leap is worth it, and most students I know were upset to come home."