My experience abroad enhanced my academic pursuits and career goals by allowing me to visit international relations sites such as NATO, the IC, and EU buildings. These were incredibly useful as I am starting my job search for graduation next semester, and I now know a bit about 3 major IGO’s which should hopefully help me secure a governmental role.

Visiting Belgium, along with France and Amsterdam on my own time, affected me on a personal level as I have been wanting to visit Europe for a while so I could connect with the culture and background of my fathers and mothers family lineage.

My experience abroad helped me to learn and improve my ability to communicate in a non-English speaking environment by allowing me to practice the French I had learned at MSU. Belgians were very forgiving with mistakes as long as you make a genuine effort. I was able to speak in short sentences and ask for directions, plus I could read the metro and bus maps, so I had no trouble navigating at all.

I learned while I was there that in Belgium most stores do not stay open past 5pm which is very different from places here that stay open until almost midnight. I also learned they take smaller food portions but more snack breaks.

Lastly, as a student both part of the LGBTQ+ and disability communities, Brussels was very accommodating and welcoming, and not once did I feel like I was in danger because of my sexuality or ability.

Overall, the program to Europe was an experience I won’t forget, and I cannot wait to have the chance to go again. The food was amazing, the sights were beautiful, and the people were so friendly even when we had trouble with our bus passes.

Name: Abigail Pulver
Status: Senior
Major: International Relations
Hometown: Hagerstown, Maryland
Program: International Relations in Brussels