Hello Huskers!
I went to Ischia, Italy, from the end of May to the middle of June for 2 weeks. I chose this program because it aligned with my major in Nutrition, Exercise, and Health Sciences and my extracurricular interests in wellness. We studied the psychology of health in Italy and observed what contributes to longevity and high-quality health in their populations. I am very much interested in how lifestyle factors contribute to wellness and how Italians are able to positively contribute to their health in various ways. These contributions are their active lifestyles, food choices, and mindfulness practices. Citizens in Ischia tend to live longer, have lower levels of cardiovascular diseases, dementia, and obesity, and maintain active lifestyles throughout their lives. My experience abroad not only gave me worldly traveling experience but also provided me with interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage stress. I am now able to bring the lifestyle choices that we observed to how I will practice medicine in the future and manage my own health. If you are a student considering a study abroad program that aligns with your interest, you should definitely apply. This was a life-changing experience for me, and I would do it again if I could. If you are in a position to get credit for a study abroad course, it can benefit you tremendously and help you explore different opportunities, not only academically but professionally as well.
I've created life-long friendships through this experience, and studying abroad is a great way to expand your network and connections with other students. Without my time in Italy, I would not have had the opportunity to grow in all areas of my life.
Anna Zingler
