Major: Architectural Engineering/Construction Management
Class: 2010
Name: Nicole Bloedorn
Major: Architectural Engineering and Construction Management
Expected graduation year: 2010
Why did you choose to study in Czech Republic?
I knew that I wanted to study abroad and this was
really the only option MSOE had for my major. Also, I knew someone who
had done the trip to Prague the previous year and he assured me it was
something I really wanted to do. And he was very right!
Was the experience worthwhile for you?
Oh my gosh, YES! I remember feeling very scared because I was going to a
foreign country so far away without knowing anyone! However, it turned out that
I got put into a room with a great roommate who became my very good friend and
I met tons of other amazing people along the way from all parts of the world. I
also got to travel all over Europe when I was there.
What did you like most about it?
The people and the relationships. I lived there for five months and became
extremely close to my friends. But it was a different kind of close because we
were all from different parts of the world. I had best friends from Canada,
Ireland, Italy, Spain, and more. Leaving Prague was one of the saddest days of
my life, because I was leaving some of my greatest best friends.
What types of classes did you take while
abroad?
We had to take four classes when we were there: Czech language, Czech
culture, History of Architecture and History of Interiors. The language and
culture classes were to help us understand the Czech ways by learning some of
the language and going on field trips around the city. The other two classes
were lecture classes about architecture.
Would you recommend studying abroad to other
students?
Of course! I can happily say it was one of the best decisions of my
life and I wouldn't trade it for the world. The people I met, relationships I
made, and places and things I got to see are irreplaceable.
What advice do
you have for students who are interested in studying abroad?
DON'T BE SCARED! JUST GO! I was scared too and thought of backing
out but it makes me so sad to think what I all would have missed out on if I
hadn't went. Also, don't worry about the classes you miss and the money aspect
of it. The classes can be made up the following summer as independent studies
and all the tuition is exactly the same, the only extra money that comes out of
your pocket is the plane ticket.
Did studying abroad delay your graduation
date?
No.
What do you hope to do upon graduation? Did studying abroad influence
your career choice at all?
I hope to use my degree to work for a general contractor as a project
manager on various construction projects. Studying abroad did influence my
choice, in that now I'm not scared to possibly have to move for my career. I
figure if I could live in Europe for five months, I will be fine wherever I go.