Rylee Martinez

Rylee's Education Abroad Experience

"I chose my education abroad program for several reasons. The courses offered perfectly aligned with my major in Criminal Justice, providing me with a unique opportunity to explore the field from an international perspective. Beyond the academic appeal, the allure of studying in Italy, a country rich in culture and history, was irresistible. Affordability was a consideration, and the availability of scholarships, which I actively pursued and received, significantly eased the financial aspect. Overall, it was an ideal combination of academic relevance, cultural exposure, and personal recommendations that led me to select this program.

During my education abroad experience in Italy, I had the privilege of immersing myself in a rich cultural journey. Exploring historical landmarks like the Vatican, attending a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica led by the Pope, and visiting iconic sites such as the Colosseum were truly unforgettable moments. Additionally, overcoming language barriers, such as in Palermo where English was less common, pushed me to use creative communication methods. These experiences nurtured my independence, enriched my cultural understanding, and solidified my passion for pursuing a career in criminal justice.

One of the most surprising aspects of my experience abroad was how stepping out of my comfort zone led to profound self-discovery. Despite my initial social apprehension, the friendly interactions with fellow students at the Rome airport immediately calmed my nerves and showed me the value of pushing beyond my comfort zone. As I navigated language barriers, using tools like Google Translate, I realized that my adaptability was greater than I thought. These experiences taught me that by embracing discomfort, I could not only connect with others but also uncover new strengths within myself. This revelation was a powerful reminder that personal growth often lies just beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones.

My education abroad experience taught me crucial life lessons. One of the most impactful was the value of appreciating the little things. The mellow and calm cities of Italy, in stark contrast to the fast pace of my life back in Los Angeles, highlighted the beauty of slowing down and savoring each moment. Stepping out of my comfort zone also taught me about personal growth and self-discovery. Engaging with unfamiliar cultures and overcoming language barriers underscored the importance of adaptability and open-mindedness. Additionally, the experience reinforced the significance of connections and relationships, showing that shared experiences can bridge cultural divides and create lasting bonds. Lastly, I discovered that pursuing passions can lead to unexpected career aspirations. My exposure to the criminal justice field in a new context ignited a genuine career interest. Overall, my education abroad journey enriched my understanding of the world and myself, emphasizing the transformative power of new experiences.

My education abroad experience has significantly influenced my career aspirations. It has ignited a genuine passion for the criminal justice field and provided me with a unique perspective that will enrich my future endeavors. The exposure to different cultures and legal systems has deepened my understanding of the complexities within the field, and the interpersonal skills I developed while navigating cultural differences will undoubtedly benefit my interactions with colleagues and clients. Overall, my education abroad program equipped me with a broader worldview and enhanced skills that will undoubtedly contribute to my success and growth in the criminal justice sector.

My advice to fellow students would be to embrace the opportunity with an open mind. While the process might seem overwhelming at first, it's important to remember that Penn State provides comprehensive support and resources to guide you through every step. Reach out to peers who have already participated in education abroad programs to gain insights and alleviate any concerns. Most importantly, understand that stepping out of your comfort zone will lead to transformative personal growth and unforgettable experiences. The initial apprehension will quickly turn into excitement as you embark on a journey of self-discovery and cultural enrichment."