Mallory, a St. John's student originally from
California, experienced a different way of life during her Summer
Session in Spain.
Major: Journalism with minors in Middle Eastern
Studies and Asian Studies
Global Studies Program: Spain Summer
Session
What is your background?
I was born here in the United States and both sides of my
family are well established in this country. My father's side
(Japanese) has been here since the early 1920s and my mother's side
(Latino American and French) have been here since the late
1800s.
Where are you originally from?
I'm originally from Sacramento, CA. Freshman year at St.
John's was my first time in New York City, but I have grown very
accustomed to the area. I don't miss California one bit.
In what student clubs, sports, or extracurricular
activities are you involved?
I write occasionally for the Torch, but most of my time is
spent either studying, working, and organizing events with Resident
Hall Association, I am the Publicity Chairperson.
Why did you decide to study abroad?
I wanted an adventure, not a vacation. It would also be
valuable experience for me career-wise. I aspire to be a foreign
correspondent or work with the US government. Studying abroad is
one of the first steps to living and working abroad.
I didn't want to read travel guides concerning my study abroad
country and I really didn't want to hear every detail about others
who have gone before either. I felt like it would take away from
the allure of visiting a foreign country. What is the point of
studying abroad if you already know everything about the place? I
wanted there to be a sense of mystery, I didn't want a vacation, I
wanted an adventure and that is exactly what I got.
What appealed to you about the particular program you
selected?
I studied Spanish ever since high school and I really
wanted to practice it in its native element. The Spain program
seemed perfect and summer worked best into my schedule.
What did you like best about studying abroad?
I liked testing my independence and maturity. Going to a
foreign country pushes you outside of your comfort zone and you
learn what kind of person you really are. I found out I was
organized, a great packer and comfortable getting lost.
What was your most memorable experience?
Some of the other students and I went to Tangier during
the weekend and it was the most thrilling part of the study
abroad.
How has the study abroad experience affected you now
that you are back in New York?
I miss Spain and I have seriously decided that I want to
live there. I miss the food, I miss the hospitality, I miss the
climate. Now that I no longer have my "siesta" I find myself trying
to relax in this fast-paced nation. The tempo in Spain compared to
that in New York is so much slower and more tranquil. I try my best
to keep that feeling present in my everyday life.
Would you recommend studying abroad to a friend?
Yes, my study abroad was one of the most beneficial and
wonderful times of my life and I want everyone to have that same
experience of discovering themselves in a foreign land.