Fitzpatrick, Anna

Anna Fitzpatrick

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I choose this program because I was given the opportunity to travel to many places during my time abroad. While on Semester at Sea I went to a total of 10 countries over three continents. I had the opportunity to travel abroad while I was a child so a deep love and appreciation for travel and culture was instilled in me since a young age. When I got to Carolina I knew I wanted to study abroad, but I didn't know where. I had a lot of flexibility due to my major so when I discovered Semester at Sea I knew it was the program for me. Having the opportunity to travel to so many countries, meet so many new people, and live on a ship with a close knit community was the opportunity of a lifetime that I couldn't pass up. 

What did you learn about yourself?
Study abroad gives you the opportunity to learn so much about yourself. While studying abroad I gained such a deep level of trust and confidence in myself. Trust that I as able to take care of myself in a new place, make new friends, and the ability to be respectful of others cultures, ideas, and background. Through these experiences and others like them I was able to develop a further confidence in my abilities. I was pushed outside my comfort zone a lot while I was abroad, but knowing I was able to overcome every struggle and every time I felt out of place, made me so much more confidence in my skills and abilities. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
There are so many wonderful memories I made while I was abroad it is difficult for me to choose just one! One memory that stands out to me is the cooking class I was able to take in Gozo, Malta. A few students and I created a "Cooking Club" on the ship. When we ported in each country we would look for cooking related experiences. While we were in Malta we were able to book a local cooking class. A group of ten of us went to a local restaurant's kitchen where we cooked a traditional Maltese five course meal. We also had the opportunity to purchase a few ingredients needed for our recipes in the local market. The food was incredible, but the conversations my peers and I were able to have with the locals in the market and the chefs who were hosting us made the experience so special. Getting to talk to people of different cultures and backgrounds was so eye-opening and exciting. Having the opportunity to learn from others is priceless and I would go back to this day again and again if I had the opportunity. 

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
Whenever my friends mention wanting to study abroad I always encourage them to go! You may not have this opportunity again and you will learn so much about yourself, others, or places. I know a lot of people are afraid of missing out on time at UNC or about leaving your friends, but Carolina will always be here for you to come back to and your real friends will love and support the choice that is best for you. While being abroad it is so normal for uncertainties to arise. I would encourage students to not lose sight of the reason why they decided to study abroad. Whatever your reason is for studying abroad it can anchor you and provide a foundation and perspective you need when you are homesick or confused over a language barrier. 

How do you identify?
Military/Veteran/GI Benefits

Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
I had the opportunity to be part of the Veteran's Day Panel while I was abroad. I was able to talk about my Dad's military experience and also the impact it had on my siblings and I's childhood.

Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
I'd say to look into scholarships and grants through Veteran Affairs. They are helpful and working out benefits between the VA, UNC, and your program is worth while. 

Memories