“I wanted to study abroad to improve my German language skills. College study abroad programs are also the best opportunity to travel freely while you're still young and don't have too much responsibility,” reflected Ian Wheatley, an economics major who is currently abroad on the Bowling Green State University in Austria: University of Salzburg program.
Wheatley, who is also minoring in economics and German, will be living and studying in northern Austria until January of next year.
“I have learned a lot about how to be independent, especially enduring uncomfortable or scary events. There is support available if things get really bad, but awkwardness in a new environment is something that you just have to work through,” he said.
Through coursework at the University of Salzburg, Wheatley hopes that he will be able to use skills gained in the classroom and out for his personal life and after graduation.
“I believe my German language skills will help me in my career, especially if I pursue graduate school in a German-speaking country. I am also taking two economics classes in German, which will be helpful, especially the quantitative macroeconomics class.”
When he’s off campus, Wheatley has enjoyed the beautiful scenery and culture of Austria.
“Going to Vienna was really cool, especially touring the Austrian parliament building and seeing a light show in a gorgeous church called the Votivkirche. I also enjoyed a vegan schnitzel made out of mushrooms that I had in Vienna.”