Colvin, Sarah

Sarah Colvin

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
The Carolina Global Launch program is unique in the fact that applicants are thrown into the study abroad experience. I submitted my Carolina application in October, where I had checked a box asking if I’d like to be considered for the program. Less than a year later I was moved in with another student to our host family’s apartment in Granada, Spain. With my parents' adventurous pasts, I had always wanted to study abroad but this was not the way I had planned to do so, and I was terrified. Yet, less than a month ago I returned from my second study abroad program in Spain. My time in Granada was easily the best, most transformative experience of my life. So when I heard I could go back, I jumped at the opportunity. Additionally, since my trip to Granada, I have gone from treating Spanish as a school requirement to enrolling in the major. Not only is cultural integration the best way to learn a language, it is also a unique, life changing experience.

What did you learn about yourself?
I found study abroad to be one of the most pivotal moments of my life. I learned the importance of cultural competency and how it can broaden one’s horizons. Immersing myself gave me a new perspective on the different customs and ways of life in different cultures that had previously been foreign to me. Not only was this in terms of language acquisition, but also in understanding the world’s diversity. This has allowed me to better connect with people from diverse backgrounds. I specifically learned about Spanish culture and language in ways I could not have expected. To be honest, I did not initially like Spanish, as my experience was limited to my highschool classroom setting. Grades seemed to be my only concern. But living and studying in Spain gave me such a new view of the language that it led me to major in Spanish. I now consider Spanish not as a language requirement, but as a future goal. Finally, I learned that stepping out of my comfort zone can lead to rewarding personal growth. Despite arriving in Spain scared and unprepared, I left with a new level of confidence in my abilities to adapt to my surroundings. This has continued to shape my journey as a college student as I am more eager to throw myself into new groups and opportunities to learn, such as my second study abroad. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories from my study abroad experience comes from the accessibility and ability to travel. Living in Europe gave me the opportunity to affordably travel to countless Spanish cities, as well as multiple countries. One trip that stands out is the week I spent in Barcelona with my roommate Arya. I have heard many people say that in college it is rare that you stick with the friends you meet your very first semester. But after our week in Barcelona, I was confident that Arya and I would be lifelong friends. In our one week, Arya and I were walking an average of 30,000 steps a day and likely got no more than 20 hours of sleep total. Despite the exhaustion, it was one of the best weeks of my life. Arya and I were determined to make the most of every moment, because it was an experience we may never have again. By walking miles upon miles, hour after hour, we checked off every museum and park we wanted to see. This was our first trip without the assistance of our program or parents, something that always felt too intimidating to do. Now I appreciate the strict itineraries the UNC program, or my mom, makes for our trips. It taught me the importance of valuing the limited time we have when traveling, even if for Arya and I, it meant sacrificing a little sleep. While the length of study abroad initially seems intimidating, in the end, you often find yourself wishing for more time.

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
My main advice to students who may face uncertainties while studying abroad is to embrace the experience, even when it feels intimidating. To be accepted to UNC, I was required to accept my admission to Carolina Global Launch, which meant starting my first semester abroad. I couldn’t weigh out the pros and cons of going abroad versus staying in Chapel Hill. In fact, had I been given the choice, I likely would have stayed due to the fear of being surrounded by people I didn’t know in a new country. But what I was uncertain about turned out to be what I am most grateful for. The random strangers became new friends and the new country became my favorite place. I was constantly exploring my new city, attending classes, and traveling. Looking back, my busy lifestyle makes it feel as if I was never given the chance to feel homesick. Rather than ruminate on the uncertainties that you may face during study abroad, I suggest going in with a positive outlook and to expect the best. The challenges you face lead to personal growth in ways that can’t happen in any other circumstance. And while the program’s length may feel daunting, when it comes time to leave, you’ll wish you had more time.

How do you identify?
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Memories