PHIELD NOTES

Four Chi Eta brothers reflect on their (sometimes unconventional) semesters abroad this academic year.

PHIELD NOTES ®

4-Brother Memo Book Durable Materials / Made in BG-KY

Ryan Bilbrey

Harlaxton College, Spring 2020 As somebody that’s from Bowling Green, it’s very easy to get caught up in the comfort of going to college in my hometown. Studying abroad at Harlaxton College has given me the unique opportunity to spend an entire semester outside of this comfort zone. It’s opened my eyes to the variety of cultures that can be found so close together across Europe and how meaningful it can be when a local treats you with respec and takes the time to learn where you’re from rather than brushing you off as tourist. When you’re on the receiving end of this respect, it encourages you to treat others this way, instead of brushing off those in your hometown just because they seem different. On top of learning major life lessons, I’ve been able to study in a 19th century manor , travel Europe from Iceland to Spain, and make life long memories along the way.

Josh Biggs

Prague, Czech Republic, Fall 2019

I decided to study abroad in the fall semester of my junior year in Prague, one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Prague started as just a cool place that I would spend about four months. I was truly excited but didn’t expect that by the time I left I would see Prague as a second home. The city, the people, the food, and so much more are dear to my heart. I got to study at the University of Economics in Prague during the week and travel to a total of 10 countries on the weekends; while the traveling and the new experiences were amazing, what I miss most about Prague is the church. Amid a very secular city I was able to find a church and worship the Lord and be in community with other believers. It was incredible to see Jesus being magnified throughout the world and be encouraged that His mission to save people from every tribe and nation is alive and well.

Miles Newton

Semester at Sea, Spring 2020

As a student on the 128th voyage of Semester at Sea, I had the opportunity to experience a multitude of transformative interactions. In reflection on my voyage, one of the most meaningful encounters I experienced occurred in Vietnam, where I was able to immerse myself into the Sapa mountain valley community. For three days I trekked through the stunning steppes of the valley, stayed in a local hostel, prepared and ate lunch at my guide’s home, and spoke with villagers about their daily lives. Each day I would hike approximately five hours through the mud-filled steppes with help from my guide, Chi. As we walked, Chi told me about her family, her history living the mountain valley, and her passion for showing others the beauty of Sapa. We ate lunch in local homes each day, which allowed me to understand what daily life was like. As our time progressed, I became more attuned to the lifestyle and learned so much about myself, the beauty of our world, and the true importance of intentional connection with others. Although this experience was not externally glamorous, it was absolutely one of the most transformative moments I have ever experienced. It was incredibly eye-opening to witness the simplicity that brought the Sapa people so much joy in comparison to the Western ideals of consumerism and happiness. Another positive highlight that comes to mind encapsulates my time on the ship. In light of our itinerary changes and premature disembarkation, I spent much more time on the ship than originally anticipated. However, the additional time with my shipmates was a gift that I will always cherish. From the Sea Olympics to crossing the equator on Neptune Day and from movie nights to pool gatherings, some of my most beloved memories were made aboard the MV World Odyssey. The shipboard community was a constant source of support and impacted my study abroad experience immensely. It is difficult to accurately convey my thoughts and feelings. This experience has truly transformed my understanding of my purpose in life and has broken down every misconception I previously held about the global community. In full transparency, this voyage has not always been easy. Through all of the uncontrollable changes, I have faced the option to either move forward in positivity or let the loss get in the way of my growth. My experiences, however, have taught the power of perspective and urged me to look at life through a lens of opportunity. Regardless of change, I am confident that I maximized my time and will remain positive about the experiences I was blessed with.

Spencer Cassady

Harlaxton College, Fall 2019

I chose to study abroad to get out of my comfort zone. I grew up in Bowling Green and then stayed here for college, so I felt I needed to branch out and experience what the world has to offer—and I was not disappointed. Having the privilege to travel to so many different countries, see all the historical sites, and bask before God’s creation is something I’ll never forget. I also loved experiencing the cultures and hearing the languages of all the different nations that are packed so tightly together on the European continent, not to mention the incredible, authentic foods from every country I visited. The people at Harlaxton knew how to make us feel at home, too, with multiple clubs to join and other programs to get plugged into the surrounding community.