Im Studying Abroad!

Im Studying Abroad! It’s official: I’m headed to the Hong Kong University of Science Technology next semester! These past few weeks have been so hectic with midterms and interviews, but hearing that I’d gotten into my top choice program was a reason to take a quick break and share the exciting news. Going into the application process, I wasn’t sure which program to preference. I originally considered locations in Europe, but when I learned about Hong Kong, I knew almost instantaneously that it was the right choice for me. I think being in an Asian cosmopolitan city will offer a nice contrast to life here at Illinois, and as someone planning to pursue a career in finance, I can’t think of a better opportunity to explore the fast-paced global financial hub that Hong Kong represents. Plus, the food is amazing. Unlike most of my peers in the College of Business, I never really thought about studying abroad until much later in my sophomore year. Last semester was pretty grueling, and by the end of it, I really wanted a change of pace and scenery. I know that my time abroad will have its own challenges, but from what I’ve been told, it’s worth it. I’d encourage everyone to keep an open mind about study abroadâ€"there are so many different types of programs that you can participate in, whether they’re semester long, or over shorter breaks. You can explore all of them on the Illinois Abroad and Global Exchange page. Anyway, break time’s over I have midterms to study for. Ria Class of 2018 I'm studying both Finance and Information Systems and Information Technology in the Gies College of Business. I’m from Los Altos, California.