Meet Lila Cantrell (she/her/hers)

Program and Location:

Summer, The Arctic Circle: Sweden, Norway, and Finland; Uppsala, Umeå, and Abisko; Sweden

Major/Minor:

Forest Management Ecology (Major); Minors in Environmental Education, Wildlife Science

Why did you choose to study abroad?

I decided to study abroad because I desired to see more of the earth and nature. Sweden is a very environmentally progressive and forward country and I knew that studying abroad there, on a natural resource program, would give me the education and experiences I was looking to add to my college experience. I decided to study abroad because I knew it would expand my education in natural resources, but also in life. I knew I would learn about navigating in new countries, learn about new cultures, and try new food! I also wanted to study abroad because it gave me the opportunity to go with a community/support system and it made leaving the country less daunting. I also wanted to study abroad in college because I knew there was a lot of financial aid and resources available that would help me experience this opportunity!

What did you learn about yourself?

I learned that I am a very spontaneous person when given the opportunity to be spontaneous. We had a lot of optional things we could do while in Sweden and I think I tried everything new that I could. For example I went on a hike from 8pm until 2am just because we could while in the Arctic Circle. I also swam in extremely cold water every opportunity I was given because the water in Sweden was so pristine and calm. I also enjoyed a variety of new foods such as Moose jerky, Reindeer steak, lingon berries, cloud berries, and more. I learned that I could be outgoing and adventurous and it encouraged me to bring this mentality back home, and I have done more things now that I formerly wouldn’t because I was afraid.

What was one of your favorite parts of your program?

The night hike was my favorite part of the program. It was just such a unique experience to being in Sweden in the summer. Since it was continually daylight we were able to go hike starting at 8pm and hiked out to this gorgeous mountain and lake. It took as a few hours to get there and back, and it has been one of my longest hikes to date! I enjoyed experiencing this with my classmates who became friends and enjoying the tranquility and uniqueness of the moment. I also really enjoyed swimming in the cold water and then experiencing the sauna culture of Sweden. It was a very refreshing and relaxing experience.

What advice do you have to future study abroad students?

Try everything that you can! It can sometimes be exhausting or daunting to keep putting yourself out of your comfort zone, but if you don’t you’ve wasted a good portion of your time abroad. Getting out of my comfort zone made this one of the most thrilling and memorable experiences of my life. When given the option to do the night hike, do it! When given the opportunity to eat Reindeer pizza, get it! I would say get out of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to try new things.

Were you surprised by anything during your time abroad?

I was surprised by the anti-grind culture. The US is so grind culture and go-go-go but in Sweden and Europe they work to live, not live to work. I was shocked at the amount of restaurants/businesses that were closed for summer leave. Most businesses after Midsommar will close down for a few weeks to take a break, or go on vacation. It was really refreshing that everything was so laid-back. I really enjoyed having Fika in the afternoon (coffee and a pastry) and connecting with friends during that time then getting back to work. It was very interesting to see how much they value their personal time, and I strive to lead a life like that where I am able to enjoy and live my life and not get so caught up in work or “the grind” that I lose focus of what’s really important.

In what ways did your identity have an impact on your experience abroad?

I found myself taking tons of photos, or more notes to share this experience with my parents. Every time I get to do something like this I think on them, and what they’ve done for me to get me where I currently am at. I am super proud to be the first generation college student in my family, and I know they are extremely proud of me as well. So every time I get to experience something like this I am always thinking of them, and excited to come back to share the experience and education with them.

Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?

I would say don’t forget about what your family did/sacrificed to get you to this position and opportunity. I sent tons of postcards to them that expressed my gratitude, and to just update them on what was happening. They’ve never experienced something like this, but part of them can through you relaying your experiences to them. Allow your family to live vicariously through you.

Where did you find support to navigate any challenges you faced abroad?

I found support among my peers while studying abroad, they were also navigating a lot of the same challenges, and it was good to navigate them together. I also found support in my family even though we were on a 6 hour time difference.

Would you do it again?

I would absolutely do it again. I had hardships, and was extremely homesick at some points but it was all worth it! I saw amazing sights, met amazing people, and experienced amazing things. I will never forget the view at Abisko National park of the snow-capped mountains and the Gatorade-blue clear water. It was gorgeous and I would absolutely go back and do it again.