Q & A: OSU student shares experience studying abroad

News & Lifestyle Editor

OSU has more than 55 international partners in over 30 countries worldwide where OSU students can study. The study abroad program offers opportunities for scholarships so students’ dreams can be achievable.

Katie Ditchkus, a junior majoring in history pre-law, graduated high school in Mississippi and chose to attend OSU because of its welcoming and friendly environment. Ditchkus studied abroad for a semester through OSU and shared her experience with The O’Colly.

Q: How did you decide you were going to study abroad? Was that something you always wanted or just something you started to think about during your first years at OSU?

“Something I knew I always wanted to do was to study abroad. OSU explained the concept and logistics in such a clear manner it really made a difference in picking between colleges. It was a priority to me. So, when I did a private tour they made it the main focus. While other schools I had toured simply gave me a quick overview. They made it a priority so I felt like one too.”

Q: How did you choose the place? Did you have more than one option?

“I went to University College Cork in Cork, Ireland, for a full semester in the spring. I had a lot of different options to choose from whether it was the length of time or the place itself. I have never traveled to Europe before and I knew that’s where I wanted to go. Most of the time you don’t have to know any other language to be able to study abroad in other countries because they teach classes in English. I was worried about having to introduce myself to a new language which looking back now seems silly. People all across Europe speak so many languages. Plus, I think trying to speak someone else’s language shows a form of respect. They might not be the best English speakers, but they try for me, so why not break the ice first?”

Q: What were some of your fears about studying abroad and how did you face them?

“It was my first time studying abroad. I was super nervous about not getting to go because I went when COVID-19 resurfaced in December. Visa requirements also stressed me out, but overall I was just excited to get to explore. I was worried about the financials of attending a school abroad; however, between private scholarships and OSU’s study abroad scholarships, it was completely manageable. The process after I had decided to go was pretty easy.”

Q: Was it worse leaving home or leaving your exchange city?

“I think for me personally it was worst leaving my exchange city. Leaving Cork, Ireland, was extremely hard. I cried going to the airport, at the airport and on the plane. It was a rough moment even in the weeks leading up because everyone left at different times. Saying goodbye to a new friend every other morning was emotionally draining. At first, I kept thinking I can’t wait for my turn. Then, my turn came and there was no doubt about how I felt. I did not wanna go, but that’s a part of life. You get to make these amazing experiences and then find new ones and share them with parts of your past. I think people forget how much impact we have on each other. I’m never going to forget the people who introduced me to goat cheese and honey as a combo and I doubt they forget trying gumbo or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.”

Q: For OSU students who want to study abroad, what are some of your honest advice, and things they should know before going?

“I think one of the most important things I wish someone would have told me is to be brave. This sounds silly but in order to get the most out of an experience abroad, trying any and everything is the best way to do it. Meeting new people, experiencing new countries, asking questions or trying food is all a part of studying abroad. I think that is the best advice to know. Of course making sure you have a scanned copy of your passport on your phone, discovering the world of Vodafone or how to pack are all important, too.”

Q: Do you think your time abroad has changed you as a person? And as a student?

“I think my time abroad has changed me as a person and student. I used to be extremely time and planning oriented. Now, I do not stress nearly as much. I grew up with the mentality that working was something you have to be passionate about and devote your life to. But I think learning the more European perspective of living life for the experiences and working to be able to afford them is a lot healthier. I am also more interested in learning about other cultures and traveling more. It’s like coffee in the morning. Once you get the first taste you just want more.” entertainment.ed@ocolly.com