Study Abroad Alumni Stories: Ariana McAuley

Meet Ariana McAuley! She serves on the Board of Joy Worldwide Inc as the Director of Advocacy. She completed her undergrad at East Carolina University with a major in Political Science. She completed Masters degree in International Relations and Diplomacy at Schiller International University, Paris from 2016 - 2019.

What life skills did you gain from studying abroad?

“I lived abroad for almost 4 years and it taught me so much about myself and the world. It challenged me to do things I thought I could never do. I am the person I am today because I lived abroad. One of the best skills I learned is how to be tenacious. I always find a way out of no way.” 

What advice would you give to your past self before studying abroad?

“Soak it all in and do everything while you can. The time will fly by and you’ll never get those special moments again! Also, make sure to integrate into society as much as you can, while staying true to yourself. Language skills and cross cultural communication skills are easily gained when immersed in a different culture.”

Why do you think it is important for African American students to study abroad? 

“It’s important to learn about other cultures and other places outside of the US. Studying/living abroad gives you a greater appreciation of your own culture and where you’re from.”