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In honor of Study Abroad Day this week, we're celebrating one of Baldwin Wallace University's most distinctive opportunities — its study abroad programs, coordinated by the Dr. A.B. Bonds, Jr. and Georgianna Bonds Center for Global Exploration.
As of the 2024-25 academic year, 27% of full-time Baldwin Wallace students studied abroad — a considerable difference compared to the national average of less than 10%. This can be attributed in part to BW offering both faculty-led and independent experiences, catering to each student's comfort level.
The impact of studying abroad becomes clear when looking at how students grow during their time overseas. Here's what two BW students have shared about their experience abroad:
Sydney Lokar '28 studied at Kansai Gaidai University in Japan for the fall semester and shared her experience on the Bonds Center for Global Exploration's Instagram.
She loved the independence it gave her, like being able to take weekend trips and meet people from all over the world.
In addition, Lokar exhibits more confidence after her time in Japan — a reflection of the adaptability required to adjust to a new culture in a short amount of time.
Students have reported increased critical thinking, communication and adaptability after spending time abroad.
Lokar agrees, stating that her communication skills have greatly improved because she had to learn how to talk to people from many countries in languages she wasn't familiar with.
Lokar encourages BW students to get out of their comfort zone. She says, "Even if it is challenging, this experience could change the way you see yourself and the world around you."
For Kathleen Lucas '27, her first time abroad was to study in England at Edgehill University during the 2024 fall semester.
She mentioned that she learned to trust herself, which led to a more outgoing personality after she came home.
Lucas has made a handful of lifelong friendships from her semester in England, especially with other exchange students.
She went on to say, "The friendships I have made during study abroad, I will cherish for the rest of my life. Those people will forever remain part of the best memories I've ever had, and without them, I don't think my study abroad experience would've been the same."
Lucas explained that her journey abroad is often one of the first things employers ask about during interviews. Wanting other students to experience the same excitement and career benefits, she now works in the Bonds Center for Global Exploration, where she helps make studying abroad more accessible to students.
So, how can studying abroad help students in their future careers?
While abroad, students actively apply learned skills such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking and adaptability in unfamiliar, real-world situations.
These experiences prepare them for professional environments and provide meaningful examples to share in interviews and on applications.
Study abroad opportunities help students prepare for future careers and open doors to employers through hands-on experience.
The sign-up deadline for summer and fall study abroad trips is April 15. Students who are interested in studying abroad can visit the Bonds Center for Global Exploration or email explore@bw.edu with any questions.
