When I first set off for Austria to study global public health through a medical humanities lens, I had no idea just how profoundly this experience would shape my understanding of the world and my role in it. As a student focused on maternal mortality on a global scale, I knew I would gain academic insights—but I hadn’t anticipated how much I would learn from simply living in a place so rich in history, culture, and good food!

Austria, nestled in the heart of Central Europe, offered an incredible vantage point to observe diverse approaches to healthcare and cultural diplomacy. Studying abroad during a U.S. presidential election was eye-opening, to say the least. I found myself in countless conversations about politics and health policies, both within and beyond the classroom. These discussions challenged me to practice diplomacy—listening to different perspectives and finding thoughtful ways to share my own. It was a crash course in global communication and mutual respect, which I will now be forever grateful for as I head into a professional career!

Engaging with Austrian culture also made me reflect on aspects of my own background that I had taken for granted. I was struck by the way Austrian society prioritizes public health and social well-being, from accessible healthcare systems to public spaces designed with wellness in mind. These observations fueled my curiosity about how these models might be adapted to address maternal health challenges worldwide.

One of the most valuable aspects of my time abroad was how it developed my leadership skills. I learned to navigate new academic and social environments with confidence, often acting as a bridge between my classmates and the United States! Some, like my friend Mats from Belgium, were very familiar with American culture and “norms”, yet some of my friends like Nelli and Mila from Finland were less familiar, as was I with their cultures, so being able to learn and share with each other about many different places in the world was incredible. Out of my friend group of 8 international students, we could speak 12 different languages and studying 7 different topics!

This experience raised as many questions as it answered. How can we create healthcare systems locally that prioritize maternal health, similar to initiatives found in Europe? What cultural factors influence healthcare outcomes in different regions? These questions now fuel my desire to continue exploring global public health through both academic research and a future profession.

If you’re considering studying abroad—do it! There’s something magical about stepping outside your comfort zone and seeing the world from a new perspective. You’ll come away with more than just academic knowledge; you’ll gain resilience, empathy, and a network of friendships that span continents. For me, the Alps were beautiful, but the lessons I learned beyond the classroom are what will stay with me forever.