“While going abroad, I learned how brave and confident I could be,” reflected Olaniyi Adams-Johns, a three-time study abroad student and child and youth studies major in the College of Education and Human Ecology. “I traveled to Indonesia from America by myself and met up with the group of students when I landed. I taught two lessons to Taiwanese children in a private school, and I took an intricate cooking class in Paris.”
Adams-Johns’ international journey at Ohio State began on the Hospitality, Tourism and Gastronomy in Paris program during spring break 2023 and went abroad again on the Indonesia: Field Education Experience Program (FEEP) in the summer. Most recently, she returned from the Signature Experience in International Language Education (SEILE): Taiwan program.
“What initially drew me to study abroad was my mom. When my mom was a student in her master's degree programs at Ohio State, she studied abroad in Ghana, India, and Egypt. She would share memories about her travels frequently with me and encouraged me to sign up when I became a student at Ohio State,” noted Adams-Johns. “This was an easy decision for me, and I was eager to travel and experience the world.”
After her experiences abroad, she hopes that other Buckeyes will capitalize on the opportunities offered by the Office of International Affairs.
“I think that other Ohio State students should go abroad to explore the world and get out of their comfort zones. There are so many amazing things to see and learn around the world and traveling with Ohio State will guarantee a valuable and meaningful experience, all while keeping you safe.”
Adams-Johns, like all students who study abroad at the university, will walk away with skills to help them in their careers and personal lives.
“These experiences have shaped me by giving me confidence, bravery, and knowledge that will help me succeed in my career through the skills that I have developed while traveling abroad,” noted Adams-Johns. “The connections I made and the memories I have will open doors for me in my future.”
“I am very privileged to have had these experiences to travel to three destinations with Ohio State. I don't think I have a favorite experience, because all of them taught me different lessons and gave me memories for a lifetime. However, I would have to say receiving a Fulbright Scholarship to study abroad in Taiwan was my most impactful experience because of how rare and special it was.”