Lila took advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity
to travel to three countries in one semester while staying on track
for her Pharmacy degree!
Major: Pharmacy
Global Studies Program: Discover the World:
Pharmacy
Year: 2nd Year
What is your background?
Egyptian and Polish
Where are you originally from?
Farmingville, Long Island, New York
Why did you decide to study abroad?
I’ve always wanted to do it so when the opportunity arose I signed
up as soon as possible. I figured it would be a once in a lifetime
experience and it sure was!
What appealed to you about the particular program
selected?
You get the chance to see not only one but 3 countries in one
semester. How awesome is that?
What did you like best about studying
abroad?
I loved being embraced by all the different languages
and cultures because it forces you to appreciate the culture and
learn the language. I also love being able to travel to so many
countries on the weekends and seeing all of the tourist
attractions. The food is very different but absolutely amazing in
every country as well.
What was your most memorable
experience?
My most memorable experience was actually traveling to Morocco from
Spain because it was so different from anything else you will ever
see. I can actually say I went to Africa and Europe in one
semester! Going to Morocco made me realize how fortunate and lucky
we are to live where we live in America and how different cultures
are across the world. The food in Morocco was delicious, and the
people were the friendliest people I have ever met. I learned how
to bargain in Morocco and at one point had 3 monkeys on my head and
shoulders in the middle of the square in Marrakech!!
How has the study abroad experience affected you now
that you are back in New York?
Study abroad has definitely opened up my eyes to the entire world
and its diversity. While I was in Europe I tried so many different
foods and met so many great people. I have been exposed to so many
things that I have never seen in New York or in my entire life in
the US. I was opened up to the beautiful culture of the Europeans
and was able to experience the beauty of Europe’s history. Since
I’ve been back I have been more independent and more confident than
when I left New York. Now that I’m back I think I will appreciate
what I have more than ever, including my family, friends and
country in general.
Would you recommend studying abroad to a
friend?
Of course I would recommend study abroad to anyone and everyone.
Study abroad has been the best experience of my entire life! I
don’t regret ever going and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I
have had so many memories while studying abroad and made so many
friends that will stay with me for a lifetime.
What plans do you have once you
graduate?
Once I graduate I plan to work as a pharmacist, although I’m not
sure exactly where yet. Studying abroad has made me want to return
to Europe and continue to travel the world. Who knows, maybe
someday after I become a pharmacist, I’ll go back to Europe and
settle there.