Studying Abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that provides students with a variety of unique experiences. BeyoND Study Abroad is the official Notre Dame International Study Abroad podcast that captures these experiences via student stories from abr
In Season 5, Episode 15 of the BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast, host Grace Martin chats with Connor Casey about his experience studying abroad in London. From jet lag and first-week surprises to navigating British culture and conquering the Tube, Connor gives us a real look at what it's like to adjust to life in one of the world's most global cities. He shares local tips, cultural takeaways, and some unexpected moments that shaped his experience abroad. Whether you're planning your own study abroad journey or just curious about London life, this episode is full of helpful insights and fun stories.
In Season 5, Episode 14 of BeyoND Study Abroad, host Grace Martin sits down with Madeleine Donovan, a Notre Dame alum now living and working as a therapist in Berlin, Germany. Madeleine shares her journey from undergrad to expat life—exploring how her study abroad experience influenced her career path, sparked personal growth, and ultimately led her to build a fulfilling life overseas. Together, they reflect on cultural transitions, community-building in a new country, and the power of Notre Dame's alumni network abroad. Madeleine also offers thoughtful advice for students considering international opportunities, both academic and professional. Whether you're planning your study abroad semester or dreaming about working internationally post-graduation, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for taking your global experience to the next level.
Applying for study abroad can feel overwhelming, but we've got you covered! In Season 5, Episode 13 of the BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast, host Grace Martin sits down with program directors James Keating and Ellen Budell to break down everything you need to know about the application process. From understanding the ranking system and crafting a standout essay to selecting the right program and avoiding common mistakes, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable tips. Plus, we discuss financial resources, underrated programs, and what truly makes an application shine. Whether you're just starting your application or finalizing your rankings, this episode will give you the inside scoop to navigate the process with confidence. Tune in now!
In this episode of the BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast, host Grace Martin sits down with Julia Flood to discuss her experience in the Entrepreneurship and Empowerment in South Africa (EESA) program. This highly competitive, 6-week summer program challenges students to work alongside South African entrepreneurs in Cape Town's townships, helping make their businesses sustainable. Julia shares insights on the application process, working in consulting teams with local students, and navigating the challenges of real-world entrepreneurship. Plus, we dive into the cultural side of the program—from visiting Robben Island to hiking Table Mountain. As EESA celebrates 25 years, we explore why this program continues to make a lasting impact. If you're interested in social entrepreneurship, hands-on global experiences, or studying abroad in South Africa, this episode is for you!
Welcome back to BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast- Season 5, Episode 11! You've been accepted to study abroad—congrats! But what happens next? In this episode of BeyoND Study Abroad, host Grace Martin sits down with John Blount to walk you through everything you need to do before departure. From securing health insurance and visas to deciding what to pack and preparing mentally for cultural adjustment, we cover it all. Plus, we'll share tips on staying in touch with family and friends while making the most of your experience abroad. If you're wondering how to get from acceptance to takeoff, this episode is your ultimate pre-departure guide!
Finding Family and Tradition in Rome with Luke Hofer Description: In Season 5, Episode 10 of the BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast, host Grace Martin sits down with Luke Hofer to explore how he created a sense of home while studying in Rome. From the traditions he missed most to the new rituals he formed with his “family” abroad, Luke shares how he navigated homesickness, found comfort in local foods, and celebrated holidays in entirely new ways. He reflects on the friendships that became his support system, the most festive Roman locations, and the little things that made his apartment feel like home. Plus, he offers advice to future students on fostering belonging while abroad. Tune in for a heartwarming conversation about the power of connection, tradition, and embracing the experience of studying abroad!
In this season premiere, host Grace Martin sits down with her mom, Shannon Martin, for a heartfelt conversation about what it's like to support a child studying abroad. Shannon shares her unique perspective, offering practical tips for communication, preparation, and staying connected across time zones. Announcement: Summer Study Abroad applications have re-opened from now until February 1st. Find more information on our webpage. Tune into this episode for valuable insights, heartfelt reflections, and advice for parents navigating the study abroad journey.
In this festive season finale episode of the BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast, host Grace Martins chats with Patrick Marshall about his experience studying in Heidelberg, Germany, during the holiday season. From Halloween celebrations and exploring enchanting Christmas markets to navigating Thanksgiving away from home, Patrick shares how he embraced local traditions while keeping the spirit of his own alive. Tune in for heartwarming tips on celebrating the holidays abroad and making cherished memories across borders!
Join host Grace Martin as she sits down with Kechi Mbah for a rapid-fire episode about Kechi's study abroad experience in Hong Kong. From navigating the bustling city, exploring local food culture, the expectations surrounding Hong Kong Disney, and adjusting to Cantonese while embracing the vibrant campus life at HKUST, we leave no question unanswered. Get ready for quick takes, candid reflections, and insider tips for anyone considering studying in one of Asia's most iconic cities. Whether you're curious about cultural differences, campus hotspots, or budgeting advice, this episode has it all. Don't miss out on Kechi's unfiltered take on life in Hong Kong!
Welcome to Episode 6 of BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast, hosted by Grace Martin! In this episode, we dive into the world of study abroad myths with Grace Leeson, currently studying in Puebla, Mexico. Together, we uncover the truths behind common misconceptions—from safety concerns to cultural food expectations, language fluency, and the pros and cons of homestays versus dorms. Tune in as we explore what it's really like to live and study abroad, armed with firsthand insights from Grace Leeson's experience in Mexico.
In this episode of the BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast, host Grace Martin speaks with Macey Bartels about her journey studying abroad in Kazakhstan. They discuss the thrill and challenge of learning in a Russian-speaking setting, Kazakhstan's unique art history, and the bustling karaoke culture. Macey shares insights on why more programs should be offered in Central Asia and reflects on navigating new experiences in this incredible country.
In this episode, we dive into Jonathan Granda Acaro's unforgettable journey in India through the BeyoND Study Abroad podcast. Jonathan shares a glimpse into his daily life as a computer science student in bustling Mumbai, the vibrant networking opportunities he's seized, the flavors of new and exciting foods he's tried, and the rich tapestry of hundreds of religions he's encountered. From breathtaking landmarks to immersive cultural excursions, Jonathan's experience provides a window into the diverse and dynamic world of studying abroad in India.
In this episode, Grace Martin sits down with Cheyenne Stewart, a Notre Dame student who has participated in multiple study abroad programs across Dublin, London, and soon Rome. Cheyenne discusses how these unique experiences complemented each other, shaping her academic journey as a neuroscience and behavior major and expanding her perspective on global health. Listen to how Notre Dame Global's support helped her navigate and balance multiple programs, enhancing her educational and personal growth abroad.
In this exciting episode of the BeyoND Study Abroad podcast, host Grace Martin sits down with Nettie Rooney to explore her transformative experience studying abroad in Chile. Nettie shares stories of immersing herself in a new culture, living with a host family, speaking a foreign language, and trying something new every day. Tune in to hear how this incredible journey helped shape her global perspective!
In the exciting kickoff to Season 5 of the BeyoND Study Abroad podcast, new host Grace Martin and co-host Morgan Crier explore global experiences and opportunities. Grace shares her transformative semester in Dublin, while Morgan, a Summer Study Abroad Program Coordinator and Advisor, offers insider previews of upcoming opportunities. This episode is just the beginning of an exciting journey for aspiring globetrotters!
In this episode, Julia chats with Theo about his experience in Jerusalem as a Gilman Scholarship recipient. Theo is a Philosophy major who studied in Jerusalem in the Fall of 2023. He shares his experience and how the Gilman Scholarship impacted his time abroad.
In this episode Paulina and Peyton jump into discussing Paulina's study abroad experience! We discuss what aspects reminded her of home such as language, even though she was miles away. We dive into the perspective of a pre-med student traveling abroad and the ways she was able to explore her career aspirations!
In this episode we get closer insight as to what makes Dublin so special! Tune in to listen to Daymine share his experience with sight seeing, adjusting to a different method of schooling, and still being able to tap into his hobby of photography!
In this episode, your host Julia Warden chats with Brian Joseph, a current junior who spent a semester in Copenhagen, Denmark! Topics discussed include bonding with a host family and embracing new opportunities.
In this episode we acknowledge and correct myths of studying abroad! Tune in to ease some worries of studying abroad and to learn some tips!
In this episode, your host, Julia Warden, interviews Elise Dohoney on her experience studying abroad over the summer in Galway, Ireland. Topics discussed include accommodations, traveling and the beauty of Ireland!
In this episode we dive into the career aspirations of Alyssa and how she was able to apply skills learned from studying abroad in Santiago, Chile to her future. She highlights the meaning of her fluency in Spanish and how much it will impact her passions in the dental field.
In this episode, your host, Julia Warden, interviews Cheyenne Stewart on her experience abroad on a Dublin summer program. Take a listen to learn more about Cheyenne's journey around Ireland, and what made it so special!
In this episode, Sophia dives into her experience of studying abroad during the summer! She goes in depth of managing the complexity of finishing her first year of college and hopping right into her summer study abroad program! She also sheds light on the correlation between Berlin and her home, as well as, being a student here at Notre Dame!
In this episode, one of your hosts, Julia Warden, speaks to Mary Grace Walsh about her experience in Rome. Topics discussed include finding accommodations needed abroad, dealing with health challenges, and determining the best program for you!
In this episode we discuss Felicity Wong's experience of traveling to Norwich and India! We go in depth of what it's like to travel and study abroad more independently and as a woman. Felicity dives into her career aspirations and the way her aspirations have evolved after her study abroad experiences.
In this episode, we welcome the new hosts for season 4 of BeyoND Study Abroad! As a first-year and senior, respectively, Peyton and Julia bring excitement and a love for traveling and great conversation into the podcast. Listen to hear their favorite experiences abroad, the reasons they are excited to be hosts, and what they want to bring to BeyoND this year!
In the final episode of Season 3, Ainsley interviews Luzolo Matundu, who is currently studying abroad in South Africa at Stellenbosch. They discuss Luzolo's reasons for studying in South Africa, her experience with internationalization at Stellenbosch, and her favorite adventures abroad, including a cross-country road trip. Listen now to hear about studying abroad in South Africa, and we will see you in the fall for the first episode of Season 4!
In this episode, Ainsley interviews Emmanuel Levy, who is currently studying in Toledo, about his experience practicing his Catholic faith abroad. Ainsley and Emmanuel compare their experiences by sharing their respective challenges and blessings of maintaining their spiritual health abroad.
Today's episode features Daniel Kramer and Mary Quirk, the Rome Sustainability Fellows for this semester. They discuss what the sustainability fellows are, what the role looks like for them abroad, and what to expect for the Global Day of Action. Listen now to learn more about staying sustainable while studying abroad!
A few weekends ago, 11 students and 2 staff members from the Rome Global Gateway spent a long weekend at the Jerusalem Global Gateway. Listen now to hear Ainsley interview Boaz Leberman, a staff member at the Jerusalem Gateway, and Nate Goodwin-Kelly, a student studying in Jerusalem this semester, to discuss their experience with the RGG visit and the opportunity to give their guests a glimpse into life in Jerusalem.
In this episode, Ainsley interviews Avine Abeyesekera, a junior who studied abroad in Dublin. Avine shares how his identity as an immigrant from Sri Lanka helped him more fully embrace his time abroad, which he did by staying curious and continuously connecting with those from other cultures. Avine's experiences are unique and do not represent all student-abroad experiences. IIf you would like to share your experience studying abroad as a student of color, please connect with the study abroad office at studyabroad@nd.edu.
In this episode, Ainsley interviews Kristin Wetzel, an alumna currently living in Melbourne. Although Kristin's role on the Varsity women's golf team restricted her from studying abroad, she shares how the trip she took to Ireland with her team sparked her interest in working abroad and how she worked to reach that goal. Listen now to hear more about Australia and adjusting to living abroad! And for all you athletes or other students with difficult schedules wondering if you can study abroad, the Notre Dame International team would love to work with you to make that happen! There are many shorter-term programs such as those in the summer that make studying abroad, a unique and transformative experience that cannot be replicated in a classroom setting, a possibility for all students.
Lindsay Burgess joins the podcast today as she and Ainsley have an essential conversation about holistically managing one's health abroad. They share their experiences with mental, physical, and spiritual health while studying abroad and the lessons they learned from these experiences. If you have any concerns or questions arising from the subject matter in this podcast, please know that there are many resources for you to contact. For those studying abroad, your local teams are prepared to assist you directly or in finding resources. For those preparing to study abroad, your study abroad advisor or the Student Engagement Director are fantastic resources for you and can direct you to the appropriate professionals for assistance.
Welcome back to BeyoND Study Abroad—and welcome to Rome! In this episode, Ava Ernst joins Ainsley as they share their experiences of adjusting to life in Rome. Listen now to hear about the good, surprising, and challenging aspects of this transition!
Jackson Glynn, a junior currently studying abroad in Kyoto, joins as the final guest of the first half of Season 3! Listen now to hear about his experiences stepping out of his comfort zone while abroad and his clear passion for studying and experiencing Chinese and Japanese language, history, and culture. Check back in January for a new episode from Ainsley (from Rome)!
Emma Ryan joins the podcast today to speak about her experience with the Global Professional Experience (GPE) program in New Delhi over the summer of 2022. She shares the most challenging and rewarding aspects of her experience, as well as encourages other students to consider smaller, potentially less popular study abroad programs and locations. Listen to hear more about Emma's experience of cultural immersion!
Today, Eli Servais joins the podcast and describes his role as a sustainability fellow in Galway. He shares the meaning of sustainability for him and his time abroad, the projects he is a part of as a sustainability fellow, and his biggest advice for anyone wanting to practice sustainability while studying abroad. Listen now to hear more!
Cam Nash, a junior currently studying abroad in Jerusalem, joins BeyoND Study Abroad to discuss why he chose the Jerusalem program, how he has been able to immerse himself in the local community, and how he has enjoyed the rich cultural life of the city. Listen now to hear more about Cam's journey in the Holy Land!
Today's guests are Matt Heilman and Eliza Smith, who both studied abroad in the spring of 2022. Both are Study Abroad Storytellers and are the minds behind the Notre Dame International + Student Government study abroad identity panels! In this episode, they dive into common themes they noticed in the identity panels, how their unique identities impacted their time abroad, and what led them to continue speaking about their experiences in their respective abroad locations once back on campus. Listen now to hear more from Matt and Eliza, and check back in two weeks for our next episode!
Our guest for Season 3's third episode is Jessica Ping-Wild, a graduate of the class of 2019 who now lives abroad in London, where she studied abroad in the fall of 2017! Jessica dives into her experiences abroad as a disabled woman, lessons she learned from her time abroad, and her passion for advocating for disabled persons through her blog and social media accounts. Listen now to hear more, and check out Jessica's blog at therollingexplorer.com!
This episode is all about study abroad applications, and a member of the study abroad team joins the podcast to share some advice on choosing which program(s) to apply for, what to cover in your application essays, how to estimate the costs of studying abroad, and more! Ainsley shares some of her personal experiences as well.
Our guest for this first episode of Season 3 is Ida Addo, who studied abroad this summer in Brazil. Ida discusses the program's emphasis on justice and dignity and how the program impacted her own awareness of and passion for various global issues. She shares her research into the humanitarian crisis in the Amazon, her renewed love of spoken word, and her openness to trying new things after her experience exploring Brazil.
Welcome to the first episode of BeyoND Study Abroad with our new host, Ainsley Hurford! Today, she is joined by Crystal DiBiase and discusses Crystal's research and clinic work in Puebla, Mexico, Crystal's advice for other first-generation students, the various funding and scholarship opportunities available to students studying abroad, and Crystal's own budgeting tips for future study abroad students. Come back in the fall for another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad!
Tune into this week's episode as Sam introduces the new BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast host, Ainsley Hurford! Listen in as Ainsley, a rising junior, discusses her excitement about joining the Notre Dame International team, her reasons for wanting to study abroad, and what she hopes to bring to the podcast! Tune in next time for the first look at Ainsley's time hosting the BeyoND Study Abroad Podcast!
Welcome back to another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad! This week, listen in as Sam talks to Andrew Zimlich about his experience in the language immersion program in Angers, France! Andrew talks about his interactions in the context of a completely new cultural and lingual environment and gives his advice to any prospective students as they navigate their mental health abroad. Come back in two weeks for another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad!
Welcome back to another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad! Listen in as Sam talks with Samuel de la Paz, a Notre Dame student currently studying abroad in Chile! Samuel describes his experiences living with a host family, participating in the Chile pre-program activities, and being in the middle of a historic time period for the region. Tune back in two weeks for another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad!
Welcome back to another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad! This week, listen in as Sam talks to Ameena Jovonovich about her experience in the language immersion program in Amman, Jordan! Ameena talks about her interactions in the context of a completely new cultural and lingual environment and gives her advice to any prospective students looking at similar programs. Tune in in two weeks for another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad!
Welcome back to another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad! This week, listen in as Sam talks to Sadie Richardson about her experience in the language immersion program in Toledo, Spain! Sadie talks about her interactions in the context of a completely new cultural and lingual environment and gives her advice to any prospective students looking at similar programs. Tune in in two weeks for another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad!
Welcome back to another episode of BeyoND Study Abroad! This week listen in as Sam sits down with Ella Gilles, a current Notre Dame junior who spent last semester as the ONLY Notre Dame student at the University of St. Andrew's in Scotland! Listen in as she recounts her experiences making new friends and memories in a completely new environment!
Welcome back to a new semester of BeyoND Study Abroad! In the first episode back from our break, listen in as Sam talks with Liz Jarocki, a current Notre Dame junior studying Environmental Engineering. Liz details her studies surrounding environmental sustainability during her previous semester in Ireland, such as attending various environmental conferences!