This Spring, I spent a few months in Costa Rica and Western Montana as part of the Semester in Wilderness Medicine program through Aerie Backcountry Medicine. Throughout many courses in a variety of unique locations, I wanted to answer the question “How can care be provided to those in rural areas, with a lack of access to medical resources?” During the semester, my experiences sparked another question of “How can medical care be adapted to be successful in all environments?”

Costa Rica: During our multi casualty scenario, the final large practical incident, of our EMT course, we were hit by a (rare during the dry season) thunderstorm. Instantly, all off our medical gear, clothes, and notebooks were soaking wet. It was hard to hear anything over the sound of the rain, adding to the difficulty of an already complex situation. We retreated with our patient actors to shelter and continued the scenario. We continued to triage, stabilize, and transport our patients, making do with the wet gear we had. I like this story because it was a good lesson on how adaptability and strong leadership become especially important in wilderness medicine.

While in Costa Rica, we had the pleasure of putting on free health clinics and participating in house calls in a few of the local communities around Mastatal. We saw many patients with a wide range of illnesses and injuries. For some of our patients, this is one of the few times they see a doctor. While Costa Rica has a strong, rather inexpensive healthcare system, it is inaccessible to many people living in rural areas. For these communities, healthcare is too far away to make the trip. Additionally, the culture here is very family oriented. Many families of three or more generations live together in the same home. It’s common for a mother to take care of her children and her parents at the same time, a strenuous responsibility. This responsibility, combined with limited access to healthcare can create a difficult situation for some families. Despite this, people are cheerful. Costa Rican culture is very friendly, relaxed, and overall happy.

“Pura Vida” is a common saying which means pure life.

After seeing the patients at our clinics, I think a big part of healthcare is simply having your problem understood. For example: A mother, stressed-out from taking care of her family members’ health, while simultaneously having to worry about her own. When it’s not possible to fully cure the patient’s ailment (which is often the case), being able to provide reassurance and give solutions where they can be more comfortable is extremely valuable. Annual clinics like these can make a big difference in rural communities. 

Montana: After traveling back to Montana, we spent some time in the Flathead valley getting our Avalanche Rescue certifications, Seeley lake where we took our Wilderness EMT course, and the Clark Fork River Gorge for Swiftwater and Ropes Rescue. These were all unique environments to each other and much colder than the previous month in Costa Rica. We dug snow pits to study the layers of snow and learn about avalanche danger, practiced putting patients in a “hypo wrap” to keep them warm, performed mapping and compass navigation, and used throw bags and rescue swimming techniques in whitewater scenarios etc.  

While learning different techniques, useful in these more specialized fields, the fundamentals of patient care we learned during the EMT course stayed the same. Being exposed to learning in different places taught me about the complexity of backcountry medicine, but also added to my understanding of the core components of medical care. One of these core components is leadership. In wilderness medicine you must be able to adapt to a changing environment. This changing environment often creates complicated situations where leadership is crucial. To provide the best possible care, group members must be able to work well together even when obstacles are constantly changing. As a leader, you must figure out a solution even when everything is going wrong. 

Thank you to the Franke Global Leadership Initiative, as well as Aerie Backcountry Medicine for this amazing opportunity!

With my Wilderness EMT certification from this course, I was able to work as an EMT on my wildland fire crew this summer. In the future, I plan to continue my career in wilderness medicine with wildland fire EMS and ski patrol.

TW: talk of forced prostitution and SA (comfort women)

When I first imagined my study abroad experience, all the way back in high school, South Korea was nowhere on my list of dream locations. However, after completing a semester in Seoul, Korea, I cannot picture having done my GLI Beyond the Classroom experience anywhere else. While spending my semester at Ewha Women’s University in the center of Seoul. I explored my GLI theme of Culture and Politics through the courses I was taking, adventures I was going on, and my Global Challenge. I wanted to dive into the historical lives of women and how those experiences have an effect on South Korean women and the culture there today. Korean history is…tragic, to say the least. This history is something that is often forgotten, especially in the US. However, when studying and living in Korea, I witnessed how it is still alive and honored.

One of the main reasons I chose to go to South Korea and focus on women’s experiences was my learning of “comfort women” the summer before. Women, and girls, were taken during the Japanese Colonial period from Korea as enslaved sex workers and many were not able to return home after the war. Those who did were forced to hide their trauma for decades afterwards. Nowadays though, comfort women and Japanese Imperialist rule are frequently talked about in academic, political, and personal life. The past is a living memory.  

Near my school was a statue in memory of comfort women which looked towards Ewha. I often would pause and look at the statue when I walked to the cafe or subway station. To me, she represented all of the women who dreamed of freedom and going to a school just like the one I was lucky enough to attend.

Ewha Women’s University is quite possibly the most beautiful campus in the world, not for any explicit reason, but because of how the campus and city makes you feel. There’s something magical about the subtleness of Korea that sucks you in and makes it feel like home. Yes, there’s K-Pop and huge billboards, and yes, subways do get so packed sometimes it feels as if all the air is gone, and yes, the humidity was a new form of torture for a MT girl like me. But, there’s another side to Seoul that I was able to explore during my time at Ewha. I fell in love with Korea through the food, the architecture, the flowers and the small moments. 

The most important takeaway from my time abroad was to appreciate the mundane. Which, I know, sounds so cheesy, but is crucial when you are immersed in a new place. Some of my favorite memories are sitting at a cafe on Tuesdays with my friends or taking a silly photobooth picture on the way home from dinner. Discovering the local spots in my neighborhood, like the park that overlooked Ewha and Sinchon, where I would go alone to read and journal, felt way more authentic than going to a tourist attraction. These moments are what made my time in Korea so much more, and not just a vacation. Korea taught me how to slow down, which is ironic for a place known for its fast paced lifestyle. This lesson was pivotal especially in this stage of life, and I’m so so so thankful for getting to experience Korea in a way that allowed me to learn about another place, but also about myself!

Hello, my name is Audrey Gustafson. I had the fantastic opportunity to spend last spring semester studying in Athens, Greece at the American college of Greece. 

Like most students preparing to study abroad, I had many expectations; some of which were filled in unexpected ways. While I was excited to explore the culture of Greece, I anticipated using Athens as a home base to explore more of Europe. I pictured myself jetting off to a new country every weekend. In reality, I did have the chance to visit a few other countries, however I quickly realized that most of my weekends would be spent at my apartment in Athens. I was disappointed at first, however it was a blessing in disguise because it allowed me to spend more time exploring Athens and made me cherish the trips I did take that much more. Some of my favorite trips include fulfilling a lifelong dream of experiencing the winter olympics in Milan, and visiting a childhood friend at her apartment in London. This expectation for grand adventures extended even down to the daily. I anticipated that my afternoons after class would be packed with sightseeing, museums, and exploring the city. In reality I spent many days just going to class and going home or staying within the neighborhood. While I felt guilty for this at first, like I was not taking advantage of my opportunity abroad, in hindsight, those days spent in my neighborhood were some of my favorites. I enjoyed becoming a regular at our local cafes, reading in the sun at the park, and going on lots and lots of long walks.

While in Athens, I took a course called “energy and climate” that changed my perspective on my global theme of resources and sustainability. Throughout my participation in the CCS minor at UM, I have taken many classes exploring this topic, however my biggest takeaway from my course abroad was a non-US- centered take on energy. Due to the fact that Greece is a smaller country that is rich in wind and solar energy, the way that the government approaches renewable energy is different than in the US. One discussion topic that shaped my perspective was the intersection of environmentalism and archaeology. One of my professors did research on the effect of acid rain on archeological artifacts/monuments. This is a topic that is particularly relevant in Greece due to their rich history and archeological wealth. This was such a great example of how environmental topics can be catered to very specific local contexts, a concept that will be applicable to my process in designing a capstone project. 

Top Left: signs in Athens, Top Right: My sister, Annika, at the Acropolis, Middle: a cat on the Island of Naxos, Bottom: making friends on Naxos

Studying climate change and energy in Greece gave me a perspective on my global theme of resources and sustainability outside of the United States that broadened my view on what environmental stewardship can look like. According to an article from the Pew Research Center, surveys show that over 80% to 90% of Greeks view climate change as a major, human-driven threat. Additionally, Greece operates under European Union mandates, providing both a governing framework as well as high public support for renewable energy subsidies. On the other hand, the United States faces deeper ideological divides when it comes to energy policy, as well as quickly shifting national leadership. Climate threats such as wildfires, hurricanes, and draughts effect the United States regionally, leading to localized responses in comparison to a more unified front in Greece. It was fascinating to compare a more localized approach to environmental stewardship in the United States, to a top-down approach in Greece where decisions are made to satisfy EU guidelines.  

Studying in Athens changed my relationship with time and productivity. Living outside of the United States was a great opportunity to disconnect with “hustle culture” and enjoy living slowly. Instead of living under the expectation that time must be maximized in order to be as productive as possible, the Greeks approach long meals, coffee, socializing, and spending time outside much differently. It was refreshing to learn that not every moment needs to be productive or scheduled. This ties in perfectly to the realization that staying in my neighborhood wasn’t “wasting” my study abroad experience. I enjoyed long afternoons reading in the park while old men played chess, or lounging on the beach without feeling like I should also be studying flashcards. I learned that I did not need to “maximize” every free afternoon to have a meaningful experience. Overall my cross-cultural understanding came more from learning to exist comfortably in a culture that was previously unfamiliar to me, than from checking cultural experiences off of a to-do list.

My time abroad changed the way I approach interpersonal interactions. Building a new network of friends and acquaintances in the three months abroad required rapid vulnerability. During a typical semester or even college in general, there is ample time to build and deepen connections. On the other hand, the three months spent abroad left little time for gradual relationship building. I found it challenging to deepen friendships over the short amount of time that I was abroad. This concept is not unfamiliar to me because the same problem exists during short summer field seasons working guiding or field jobs. The skills that I built this semester will be applicable to my career sinceI will likely be working many seasonal positions.

Despite the challenges that come with any experience abroad, I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to study abroad in Athens!

Before embarking on my Beyond the Classroom experience in Florence, Italy, I expected an enriching academic opportunity paired with cultural immersion. I imagined learning primarily through lectures, readings, and guided excursions valuable, but structured. What I did not fully anticipate was how profoundly day today interactions, moments of discomfort, and real world observations would shape my learning. This experience not only met my expectations but expanded them, transforming how I understand global issues, leadership, and my role as a globally engaged student at the University of Montana. Before arriving in Florence, I believed I had a solid foundational understanding of Italy’s culture, economy, and history from coursework and prior research and past trips. I expected to observe global concepts from a distance. Instead, the experience demanded active participation navigating a new city, communicating across language barriers, and adapting to different academic and social norms. These challenges quickly shifted me from observer to participant. By the end of the experience, I realized how limited my preconceptions were. Classroom discussions became more meaningful when paired with lived experiences, such as understanding how local businesses operate within Italy’s economic framework or witnessing how historical preservation intersects with modern urban life. The experience exceeded my expectations by pushing me to think critically in real time and reflect more deeply on global interconnectedness. My Beyond the Classroom experience was centered on the Global Theme of Culture and Politics and the Global Challenge of balancing cultural preservation with political and economic decision making in an increasingly globalized world. Being immersed in Florence allowed me to see how these global challenges manifest locally. For example, observing tourism’s impact on local economies highlighted the tension between economic growth and cultural preservation. As a result of this experience, my perspective on my global theme evolved from abstract theory to tangible reality. I gained a stronger appreciation for the diverse viewpoints involved from local residents and business owners to international students and policymakers. Moving forward, I plan to leverage these insights by applying a more globally informed and culturally sensitive approach to my academic work and future career, particularly in finance and international business. Understanding the human impact behind economic decisions is essential to creating lasting, responsible change. One of the most significant outcomes of my experience was the growth of my cross-cultural understanding. Daily interactions whether ordering food, collaborating with peers, or navigating public transportation taught me the importance of patience, humility, and active listening. I became more aware of cultural norms around communication, time, and community, which often differed from my own assumptions. Over time, these interactions helped me move beyond stereotypes and develop a more nuanced understanding of Italian culture. I learned that cultural competence is not about mastering facts, but about remaining open, adaptable, and respectful. This shift will continue to influence how I engage with people from different backgrounds long after this experience. This Beyond the Classroom experience significantly shaped my leadership skills by pushing me outside my comfort zone. Navigating unfamiliar situations required initiative, problem-solving, and self-confidence. For example, coordinating group projects or managing travel logistics demanded clear communication and adaptability skills essential for effective leadership. A particularly memorable moment occurred when struggling to speak the language to the locals. This moment reinforced the importance of empathy and collaboration, reminding me that leadership is not about authority, but about understanding and supporting others. As a result, I will approach future interpersonal interactions with greater intentionality, emphasizing inclusivity, cultural awareness, and mutual respect. Overall, my Beyond the Classroom experience in Florence was transformative. It strengthened my academic interests, clarified my professional goals, and deepened my sense of global responsibility. I return with a renewed commitment to applying what I learned both in and beyond the classroom and to representing the GLI and the University of Montana as a thoughtful, engaged global citizen.

Hi! My name is Paulina Grigsby, and this past semester I studied abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland. I am currently a sophomore studying Integrative Physiology with a minor in Sports Psychology. My Global Theme is Public and Global Health, and my challenge is stopping the spread of infectious diseases and using technology to ensure that all people can access tools and knowledge to prevent disease. This experience has not only exposed me to different healthcare systems but has also deepened my understanding of how culture, accessibility, and policy shape public health outcomes.

Before my Beyond the Classroom Experience, I did not have very specific expectations, but I hoped to meet people from the United Kingdom and other countries, learn about their daily lives, and gain insight into healthcare and education outside the U.S. Overall, this experience met and, in many ways, exceeded my expectations. Through school, I was able to connect with Scottish and international students to learn firsthand how their healthcare system works and how citizens view it. I was struck by how healthcare is often taken for granted in countries around the UK and Europe because it is free. I also noticed the difference in education because classes were less frequent, but encouraged independence and personal time, which allowed for a balance between academics and personal time. 

This experience also shaped my leadership skills by fostering independence, resilience, and creative problem-solving. Navigating public transportation, managing daily tasks in a new environment, and quickly adapting to mistakes forced me to think on my feet and trust my own judgment. These experiences strengthened my ability to handle unexpected challenges—an essential skill for leadership. This allowed me to feel more confident in my ability to lead, make decisions under pressure, and quickly problem-solve when necessary

The experience of studying abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland, was impactful on many levels. One of my favorite memories was visiting the Highland cows just outside of Edinburgh. Walking up to the cows with friends I had made during the semester was not only fun but also a reminder of the joy of shared experiences and cultural exploration. Moments like this helped me build lasting friendships, connect with the local environment, and reflect on the importance of community in personal and professional growth.

Overall, my experience studying abroad has given me many new perspectives and allowed me to think of ways I can inspire change within my community. I am grateful to the connections I made, the lessons I have learned and the opportunities I had.