Author: Zsofi Parrish | Major: Innovation and Entrepreneurship | Semester: Spring 2024

Everyone should study abroad. From the adrenaline rush and fear of getting dropped off at the airport, to the sappy see you later’s (because it’s not a goodbye) to all the friends and memories you made during your time; studying abroad is worth it. Before I decided to travel abroad, every college graduate I talked to about studying abroad either said they regretted never doing it, or it was one of the best experiences of their lives’. I knew I didn’t want to fall into this category, which meant I had no choice but to study abroad. So, I did – and it was the best decision I’ve made in my college career.

Sailing in Balaton, Hungary

I chose to study abroad in Budapest, Hungary during the Spring semester of 2024. It’s no secret my name isn’t American, and my background might have influenced my decision. My mom is from Budapest, Hungary and I have many cultural connections to this country. However, this wasn’t the only reason I was influenced to go there. While I was researching my destination countries, I knew I wanted to study abroad somewhere where most people would not think to go, thus, I found an external program call Academic Program International (API). API offered a variety of opportunities specifically in Hungary. Not only would I be able to work on my Hungarian language speaking, but I learned this program would include three excursions exploring the country of Hungary, a hands-on Hungarian advisor to help with every step of the process, classes that would fulfill my degree, and a smaller group of students who would also participate in the program.

In Budapest, I took four classes at Corvinus University: Consumer Behavior – Gen Z and Millennials, Cross Cultural Communications in Marketing, Business Ethics, and Hungarian for Beginners. Each of these classes were centered around interacting with the professors and students through a series of group projects and presentations. I particularly enjoyed the final project in my Consumer Behavior class. We had the unique opportunity to work with a Hungarian brewery to help them develop a plan to connect with and reach Gen Z and later, present our ideas to the CEO. My classes were held Monday through Thursday morning, giving me the opportunity to explore the world Thursday through Sunday. With this schedule, I was able to travel to Ireland, Portugal, Malta, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, and different cities within Hungary itself. Learning about each of these country’s cultures through traveling there and authentically opening myself up to unfamiliarity and newness provided me with the most unique moments and memorable experiences.

Studying abroad builds character, teaches independency, and provides unique opportunities. When one decides to go abroad, it may be the greatest time of their life or a difficult and trying time; either way, you are stuck there. Because of this, it pushes you to discover new hobbies, make friends, and spend time learning how to overcome unfaced challenges. College is the biggest first step to independency and studying abroad will solidify your ability to be independent. You will come across unique situations by yourself or with people who you might barely know. Although it may seem nerve wrecking, this is what creates the lasting memories, the new perspectives, and the growth of being independent. Expect to make amazing memories. Expect to possibly leave your passport on a train in Italy. Expect to meet one-of-a-kind people. Expect to come back home saying “Everyone should study abroad”.