Taylor Joseph (second from right) in Italy.
November 18-22 is International Education Week, which is celebrated in over 100 countries around the globe. During this week, we will be highlighting stories from students (and the Dean of Arts, Lesley Cormack!) who have gone abroad as part of their program in the Faculty of Arts.
All interviews conducted by Sherilyn Trompetter, Senior Officer International, Undergraduate Student Services, Faculty of Arts.
Meet Taylor Joseph ('19 BA, Sociology), Student Services Assistant, Undergraduate Student Services, Faculty of Arts.
Hi Taylor! Where did you go and what did you do?
I traveled to Cortona, Italy to study Italian, Psychology and Archeological Studies.
At what point in your academic program did you go?
I avoided our cold winter and went for the Winter semester of my 2nd year! January-March, 2016.
Why did you go?
I wanted to go because I had always wanted to travel to Italy and experience Italian culture, language, and food. As well, it was an easy pick because it is one of our satellite campuses, and so I didn't have to worry about any study abroad issues, like credit transfer!
What delighted you about your experience?
It's hard to say what my favourite part of the experience was, but if I had to choose I would say the independence and confidence I developed as an overseas student and a young solo traveler. Being on my own really challenged me to make smart and healthy choices for myself, and most of all gave me the freedom to be myself!
How did the experience influence you?
The impact this experience had on me literally ended up changing the course of my degree... for the better! I left Canada as a Drama Major, and came home to change my concentration to a Sociology Major, Psychology minor! The classes, the professors, and the overall experience really had a profound effect on me, and helped me to realize my true academic passion.
What surprised you when you got back home?
Honestly, the biggest surprise to me when I got back home was my desire to do it all again in countries I never thought I would consider going to! I caught the travel bug HARD and immediately started planning when and where I would go next. Be warned: You too might catch it!
What advice would you have for Arts undergrad students who are considering a study abroad option?
JUST GO FOR IT! Over the years I've met so many students and Alumni who have told me they wished they would have taken the chance to study abroad during their degree. You will always have a million reasons NOT to do something, but you just need one GOOD reason to do it. Find that one good reason (or multiple!), pick a spot on the map, and go for it. I promise you won't regret it!
Check out our amazing Study Abroad programs here!