“I have learned a lot about myself so far. Although I am not here completely alone, I still have needed to learn how to be independent and responsible. I know I am already changing as a person and developing personally, professionally and academically,” reflected Aditi Sanghavi, a math major and economics minor who is currently abroad for the semester studying at Leiden University in Leiden, Netherlands.
Sanghavi is studying economics at Leiden and is taking a variety of courses related to the unique Dutch economic system.
“Since the Dutch system is so different from the American one, I already believe that this has helped my career immensely. I hope to go into law after I graduate from Ohio State, and the courses here are a taught from a different perspective,” she said.
Leiden is positioned near the coast of the North Sea in the heart of Europe, which gives Sanghavi the opportunity to explore the surrounding countries and cultures.
“It was important for me to go abroad because I think it’s a vital experience in a student’s life. It provides so many pathways to gain new experiences, explore new things and take advantage of opportunities,” she said. “Abroad, I am able to meet people from all over the world, who have their own backgrounds and cultures. I think it is so important to have access to this to open your mind.”
For other Ohio State students looking for a similar experience, Sanghavi encourages students to take advantage of the opportunity and ability to study abroad in college.
“If students have the chance, they should take it because it truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You will never be in college this young again, and the opportunities you have while abroad are so different than the ones you have in Ohio. Don’t be afraid of leaving, take the chance!”