Lyons, Elizabeth

Elizabeth Lyons

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
From a young age, I promised myself that I would live and study abroad during college. Rather than appreciating other cultures from a distance, I wanted to immerse myself in new environments, develop relationships, and understand the lived experiences of others through their perspectives. Hands-on learning is essential for me, and there’s no better way to grasp the complexities of different cultures than by being present in them. Studying abroad offers the opportunity to explore the intricate relationship between culture, government structure, policies, and diplomacy. Beyond academics, this experience pushed me to grow as a student and person, challenging myself to become more independent and confident in unfamiliar settings.

What did you learn about yourself?
Through my study abroad experiences, I learned that I have the courage to embrace the unknown and push past my fears, even when far from home for the first time. Jumping off that cliff in Dubrovnik wasn't just about conquering a fear of heights—it was a revelation that some of the most rewarding moments come when I step beyond my comfort zone. I had never been that far away from home before, or for that long, and these experiences taught me the importance of deepening connections across cultures. Celebrating the Fourth of July in Kosovo showed me how history and culture intertwine in ways I hadn’t fully understood. Running through the rain-soaked streets of Prishtina, surrounded by people celebrating both their own identity and an American tradition, I realized that I’m someone who seeks to understand the layers of human experience—not just through books, but through living them. My 21st birthday hike to Trolltunga in Norway was a lesson in the value of authentic, meaningful experiences. It showed me that I don’t need to follow the crowd to find fulfillment. Instead of a conventional celebration, I chose a path that resonated with my spirit, discovering along the way that I thrive in environments where I can connect deeply with both nature and people. Through these experiences, I learned that I am someone who finds strength in vulnerability, seeks genuine connections across cultures, and values experiences that push me to grow in unexpected ways.

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
I have three memories that stand out from my study abroad experiences—two in Vienna and the Balkans, and the last one in Bergen, Norway. The first took place in Dubrovnik, Croatia, a city that felt like a living postcard with its stunning architecture and shimmering Adriatic backdrop. One weekend, some students organized a cliff-jumping excursion to Lokrum Island, just a short ferry ride away. I had never done anything like this before, and I was terrified. It was well outside my comfort zone, but I was surrounded by a group of supportive friends who encouraged me every step of the way. With their encouragement, I finally took the leap—literally. The rush of cold water, the surge of adrenaline, and the feeling of accomplishment are sensations I’ll never forget. It was a moment that taught me the power of pushing past fear and embracing new experiences. My second memory unfolded on the Fourth of July in Prishtina, Kosovo. Being away from home on such a quintessentially American holiday was strange, yet exhilarating. What surprised me most was how much the Kosovars also celebrated the Fourth, a testament to the lasting impact of American intervention in the 1990s. The city was awash in red, white, and blue, with concerts and fireworks lighting up the night. I remember running down the rain-soaked streets, fireworks exploding overhead, and feeling a profound sense of connection—to the people, the place, and the history we were all a part of. It was an unforgettable fusion of cultures, and I knew it was a moment I would carry with me forever. The last memory took place in Norway, where I celebrated my 21st birthday in a way few Americans might imagine. Unlike in the U.S., turning 21 in Norway is just another birthday, and I found myself at the start of a new semester, still building friendships. Instead of the typical night out, I gathered a small group of new friends and set out on a two-day hike to Trolltunga, an iconic cliff formation that juts out over the fjords. The 27-kilometer roundtrip was challenging, but the experience was exhilarating. We camped under the stars, shared stories from our different corners of the world, and forged bonds that would last the entire semester and beyond. That hike didn’t just mark my birthday—it marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Inspired by this adventure, I now dream of hiking the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
barrier, cultural differences, or personal doubts, will push you to grow in unexpected ways. Don’t hesitate to seek help when needed, whether from locals, fellow students, or friends and family back home. Building a support system can significantly ease the transition and make the experience more manageable. Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, even when it feels challenging. The more you engage with your surroundings, the more you’ll gain from the experience. Lastly, be patient with yourself and keep an open mind. Not everything will go as planned, and that’s perfectly okay. Each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow, both personally and academically. By embracing these experiences, you’ll return home with not only academic knowledge but also invaluable life lessons that will shape your perspective and future endeavors

How do you identify?
LGBTQ+, Scholarship Recipient, Rural County Resident, $5,000 Summer Study Abroad Fellowship Recipient

Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
My identity as a scholarship recipient, a rural county resident in North Carolina, and a bisexual woman, combined with my experiences with anxiety, significantly shaped my study abroad experiences and how I engaged with different cultures. As a scholarship recipient from a rural area, I felt a profound sense of responsibility and gratitude. This scholarship was more than financial aid; it was a testament to the values of hard work and perseverance that my community holds dear. Studying abroad with this in mind, I was driven to make the most of every opportunity, carrying with me the adaptability and resourcefulness honed in a rural setting. This background also made it easier to connect with others, as discussions about life in NC often sparked meaningful exchanges with locals and fellow students. Navigating the world as a bisexual woman added another layer to my experiences. In the Balkans, where LGBTQ+ issues can be sensitive, I had to be mindful of how to approach conversations and build connections. My identity made me more aware of the cultural subtleties and helped me engage with others respectfully. For instance, in Kosovo, celebrating the Fourth of July with a local community who embraced American traditions offered a unique perspective on how my personal identity intersects with broader geopolitical contexts. Moreover, dealing with anxiety, a significant mental health struggle for me, challenged me to confront my vulnerabilities while abroad. The long, dark winter nights in Bergen, Norway, were particularly difficult. My anxiety sometimes felt overwhelming, but it was also an opportunity to practice resilience and self-awareness. I learned to seek out supportive communities and engage deeply with local traditions, which helped me manage my mental health and adapt to new environments. This experience reinforced the importance of pushing beyond my comfort zone and finding strength in adversity. Overall, my multifaceted identity and mental health struggles enriched my study abroad experiences, offering me a unique perspective on the diverse cultures I encountered. The intersection of my background as a scholarship recipient, a rural county resident, and a bisexual woman, along with my experiences with anxiety, shaped how I navigated my time abroad and deepened my understanding of both myself and the global community

Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
Embrace your identity and find spaces where you feel accepted and understood. **Manage Anxiety Proactively** If you struggle with anxiety, acknowledge it and address it proactively. Familiarize yourself with available resources and support systems at your host institution before departure. Practice self-care and seek professional help as needed. Managing your mental health will help you cope with the stresses of studying abroad and make the most of your experience. **Build a Support Network** Establish connections with fellow students and locals who share your interests or experiences. A strong support network can provide emotional support and help you feel integrated into your new environment. **Celebrate Your Achievements** Acknowledge and celebrate your milestones and successes, no matter how small. Your journey is a testament to your strength and perseverance. Celebrating these achievements can boost your confidence and motivation.

Memories