Sanders, Zahria

Zahria Sanders

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
Since high school, I've always been interested in studying abroad simply because, yes I love to travel and I enjoy discovering new things and seeing new sights, but I was also always curious about the ways of life outside of America's borders, including the varying cultures and customs, perspectives, and societal norms. Now as an undergrad student, I can say that personally, I've become complacent and comfortable socially and intellectually. I am a firm believer that being uncomfortable - whether that’s through hardships, a change in environment, or even trying unfamiliar things - will promote change and growth which is why I wanted to study abroad and why I also chose Australia. This opportunity allowed me to learn and connect with students around the globe who not only practice different cultures and daily practices, but who also molded my global perspectives on traditions, culture, and society. That experience isn’t anything that can be found here on campus and it has fueled my growth not only as a student, but also as an individual. As an Early Assurance Student at the Eshelman School of Pharmacy and aspiring Oncology Pharmacist, I was intrigued to find a program that catered to both of my passions; neuroscience and pharmacy! What I find particularly interesting about most study abroad programs, including this one, is the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real world circumstances while you’re learning. I have always been curious about the origins of medications, but I found it very interesting that antibiotics like Penicillin, for example, are extracted from nature and yet they have all of these different effects on our bodies and the pathogens that invade them. It was exciting to know that this program included a trip to the Royal Botanic gardens, where we learned about the neurotoxins found in various species of flora, particularly species that aren’t abundantly found in the United States (like Eucalyptus trees!), and the Lambert Initiative CBD Laboratory, where we were able to learn about how they are exploring phytocannabinoids and their effects on pediatric epilepsy disorders, sleep, and life-span using various animal models.

What did you learn about yourself?
I've learned that I'm actually more adventurous than I thought. It's really easy to get complacent in environment where technology makes everything accessible and easy and where a busy schedule makes your forget about the special occasions of being spontaneous and being adventurous. However, this trip has forced to come out of comfort zone and try very new things on a whim and I actually really liked that. I enjoyed the hikes, beautiful beach walks, and sightseeing so much that now I want to do it often in Chapel Hill even if it's something small or a daily thing. I think being adventurous allows us to be curious and eager to learn or see new things. I wish I would've done this experience earlier in my college career (since I'm a senior now) because I wouldn't mind going on another adventuorous international learning journey again!

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories was going on a 3-day Hiking Trip in the Blue Mountains with my classmates! I have never hiked before so this was definitely the best learning experience ever! I was enrolled in Learning in Outdoor Education at The University of Sydney and we took two hiking excursions. With this one in particular, everyday was a challenge physically and mentally. On the first day, we had the challenge of climbing 1,000 stairs around the 3 sisters (three large sandstone rocks that is the most popular attraction in the Blue mountains). It was hard however, it made me super close with so many of my classmates while also improving my confidence and giving me a sense of achievement. Also, the views were out of this world!! This experience really allowed me to foster a relationship with nature and ensued a lot of personal growth through the connections and experience that were created.

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
I actually lost a friend to a car accident while I was abroad and being miles across the globe was not helpful. However, I was able to lean on my classmates for emotional support and they were very supportive and helpful in navigating gried. So I would advice to not be afraid to make those connections, build bonds, but to also reach out if you're struggling. Whether it's your professor or a classmate, just reach out because traveling in an unfamiliar place with new faces and norms can be challening and it can become lonely so, make those connections!

Memories