I spent a semester in Grenoble, France through Swarthmore College. I was the only student of color on the program, but the program’s directors and students always made me feel a full member of group. I think American students of color would be surprised by the diversity of Europe. At L’Université Stendhal, I took classes with students from Iran, China, Korea, Russia, Israel and Sweden.  I talked with many Northern and Sub-Saharan Africans immigrants on the tram. Never during my stay in Grenoble did I feel myself to be in danger. The city was small and the police were always polite and helpful. Living in another culture (especially one with a different language) can be very challenging. Yet it is through persevering through these challenges that we become stronger. Studying in France not only improved my French, but also made me more independent and more aware of different perspectives.  Do not let your ethnicity deter you from studying in Europe. The countries are much more diverse than they appear and exploring their different cultures and histories is one of most rewarding experiences you will ever have.

Jonah Richards ‘09
Grenoble, France – Fall 2007

Studying abroad in Beijing was one of my highlights of my Bates experience.  I wanted to go to Beijing to improve my Chinese and to learn about a new culture while living in a different environment.  My family and I did not have much financial concerns because we knew it was inexpensive to travel in China, and the study abroad program’s tuition was much cheaper than Bates.  Traveling throughout China was very easy because they have accessible bus and train systems that run throughout the country.  During my break, I had the opportunity to travel to different provinces in China including Tibet and Xian which was such an amazing experience.  The hardest part about studying abroad was actually leaving Beijing because it almost felt like home after living there for four months and making new friends.  Everyone should take advantage of studying abroad because it forces you become independent and mature, and also broadens your view on the world.  

Linda Lam ‘09
Beijing, China – Fall 2007

At Morehouse, I entered a community founded on brotherhood, academic excellence, and service.  Morehouse students are not simply charged to become successful, they are expected to become great and to uplift their communities.  Morehouse contributed to my intellectual and social growth.  I achieved a serious understanding of Afrocentricity through a class I took there.  Through other classes, I have newfound respect for the philosophical thoughts of Marcus Garvey and Howard Thurman.  My appreciation for African American history and its applications came alive in my courses.  Informal lunch and dinner conversations, forums I attended with some of world’s most esteemed public servants increased my social consciousness. These experiences deepened my concern for social, political and economic justice for people of African descent.  

Thrilling, prideful, and excitement best describe Morehouse’s social life. On any given week, I could hear the sound of the marching band, attend pageants, observe Greek step and stroll shows, and attend weekly block parties.  I now have more confidence in myself and a better sense of purpose.  Students seeking lifelong friendships and an education for liberation should consider attending Morehouse as an exchange student.  I thank God for Bates’ generosity for helping me enhance my identity.  

Anthony Phillips ‘10
Morehouse College, Atlanta  2008-2009

Studying abroad in South Africa was one of the most unforgettable experiences in my life.  Not only did I get to know South Africa, its history and its people, I also had the opportunity to travel to Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.  I learned that there is no better way to learn about a place than being there, talking with people, and being a part of and embracing the culture.  My initial reservations about studying abroad in South Africa included not knowing anyone and the racial tensions that might still exist there.  I ended up becoming a more independent, responsible person, forming life long friendships, and embracing my unique perspective on racial issues to learn more about South Africa’s history and culture.  I now consider South Africa my second home.

Lisa D’Oyen ‘09
Cape Town, South Africa – Spring 2008

Studying abroad as an African-American male in Shanghai, China was definitely a crazy but enjoyable experience.  I felt like a celebrity almost everywhere that I went, with many people asking to take a picture with me on a daily basis.  Many of the local people explained to me that they had never seen a black person before and were very excited to meet me and learn more about my cultural heritage.  My highlight experience abroad was definitely being able to speak Chinese and interact with the people.  One night, I had a large crowd of people surrounding me asking me questions about America and my perception of China, all in Chinese.  As people walked by and saw an African-American speaking Chinese, the crowd just grew larger and larger.  Before I knew it, there were more people then I could count surrounding me.  Studying abroad has definitely been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and an opportunity that I would recommend everyone take advantage of.

Donelle Durham ‘09
Shanghai, China – Spring 2008

Studying abroad in England changed my life for the better and opened my eyes to the history of both ancient and modern Europe.  Before departing, I was hit with a deluge of emotions from excitement to anxiety about the cost of the program as well as fear of the social challenges I might face.  The people in the Bates Study Abroad Office assuaged my apprehension and walked me through each concern.  Once abroad, I found the general population exceedingly friendly, helpful, and fascinated that I was from New York City.
There were so many aspects of my study abroad experience that I enjoyed.  I walked in the footsteps of my favorite authors like D.H. Lawrence, E.M. Forester, Virginia Woolf, and Thomas Hardy.  I enjoyed the opportunity to experience the English tutorial system in my creative writing course.  Socially, I enjoyed talking and hanging out with a diverse group of students from English universities. As with all new experiences, there were challenges, but the staff and faculty at my program gave me ample support. Studying abroad helped me to gain more self-confidence and appreciate different outlooks on life.  Trust me, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Sade Greene '11
Bath, England -- Fall 2009

I spent my semester abroad in Santiago, Chile.  I knew I wanted to study Spanish in South America and chose Chile because a program there focused on education.  During the semester, I was able to travel throughout Chile (Valparaíso, Temuco, and San Alfonso del Mar) and to Buenos Aires, Argentina.  I am extremely happy with my decision.  During my time away, I got to celebrate Chile’s bicentennial and the rescue of the trapped miners.  I was the only student of color in my program in a not so diverse country, so I stood out.  There were many days when people would stop me on the streets to figure out my nationality, ask me about my hair, and even to tell me that my skin was a sign of good luck!  All of this made me more culturally aware and made me gain a greater appreciation for my Southern and American ties.  In the midst of all this, I also gained a sense of pride for Chile - it is definitely my second home.  My semester abroad was an unforgettable experience.  It taught me to be independent and have confidence in myself.  I truly believe everyone should take advantage of the study abroad opportunities that Bates has to offer. 

Josalynne Cottery '12
Santiago, Chile - Fall 2010