Meet Lexi Barton

Program and Location:

Summer, Sport, Tourism and Cross-Cultural Management; Nice, France

Why did you choose to study abroad? 

I knew it was one of the things I absolutely had to do in college. From the time I learned about it during orientation before my freshman year I knew it was for me. I am so interested in other countries and their people because there is so much culture that we have no idea about.

What did you learn about yourself?

I learned that I have a love for learning new cultures and seeing new things. I also learned that I want to travel so much more and see a lot more places.

What was one of your favorite parts of your program?

The group of NC State students I went with was amazing. Our advisors were also really great so we all got along well and had so much fun. I was able to see a whole new country and learn new things with a really amazing group!

What advice do you have to future study abroad students?

Go into study abroad with an open mind. I had no idea what to expect, but that ended up being a good thing! I was pleasantly surprised with the whole process from applying to actually arriving in a beautiful country full of culture. Even if you are not familiar with anyone in your group, or you are going alone, you will make so many new friends along the way.

How were your classes abroad different than if you would have taken them at NC State? Did you take any field trips or do anything outside of the traditional classroom?

While abroad we did so much of the learning out of the classroom. When learning about sports in France we toured a soccer stadium and had discussions about the topic while there. When learning about tourism we met local people that have careers in tourism and they were guest speakers while we had lunch in the city. It is such a different way to learn when compared to what we are used to and I am so glad I was able to experience it.

Would you do it again?

Definitely!