Around this time last year, Kyla Burdick, a marketing major, was studying near the iconic Eastgate Clock atop Chester’s historic city wall in the heart of England. Surrounded by centuries-old sandstone buildings, cobblestone streets, and the fluttering Union Jack overhead, the picturesque view soon became one of her favorites. What was once a new and unfamiliar place became the backdrop for countless memories during her Fall 2025 study abroad journey.
When asked what some of her highs and lows
from her time abroad were,
Burdick responded with this:
“A high from my time abroad was definitely the independence and personal growth I experienced. I feel like I came back more confident and comfortable in my own skin. A low point was the homesickness that hit around the middle of the semester, but even then, I knew studying abroad was the right choice for me.”
Like Kyla, any student can enjoy studying abroad by experiencing a new culture through everyday life, campus activities, and travel. Students might explore historic streets and local landmarks, visit museums, markets, parks, and theaters, or try regional foods and other local traditions. Many programs also offer organized excursions, cultural tours, and social activities that make it easier to meet other international students and become involved on campus. With opportunities to join student organizations, explore nearby cities, and take weekend trips to other destinations, studying abroad allows students to experience their host country from a variety of perspectives while creating meaningful memories along the way.
Adventures Outside the Classroom
Though Kyla experienced a bit of homesickness, it didn’t stop her from making the most of her time abroad. She traveled beyond England to explore countries like Ireland and Germany, where she stood atop the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher where many famous movie scenes were filmed, and immersed herself in the centuries-old traditions of Oktoberfest with people she met while abroad! Each trip offered a new perspective, allowing her to experience the rich history, culture, and traditions that make Europe so unique – all while creating lasting memories that complemented her academic goals.
Reflecting on her experience, Burdick shared this advice for future study abroad students:
“My advice for anyone considering studying abroad is to just go for it. We won’t get this time back, and even though it can be scary, it’s truly one of the most rewarding experiences you can have.”
Studying through ISEP Exchange
Burdick found this opportunity through the ISEP Exchange program, where students pay their home institution (i.e., MSU) rates for tuition, housing, and meals. If you are also interested in a program of this type or want to learn more about it, you can find more information about the ISEP Exchange program with the embedded link.
Through the ISEP Exchange program, students can take courses across a variety of disciplines while participating in an intercultural learning program that enhances their study abroad experience. This program with the University of Chester was only one of many different choices that they offer. They are open to any major or minor, so you can tailor your experience to what you need most!
If you want to know more about the application process, please email us, meet with the IBP Director, and/or visit this link to the Terradotta application brochure.
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