Meet Bryce Holbrook

Program and Location:

Summer, United Kingdom: STEM and Liberal studies in London; London, United Kingdom

Major/Minor:

Aerospace Engineering Major, and Business Administration Minor

Why did you choose to study abroad?

As an engineer, I chose to study abroad to broaden my understanding of the world and experience different cultures firsthand. Engineering is a global field, and I wanted to see how innovation and problem-solving are approached in different parts of the world. By immersing myself in a new culture, I believed I could gain unique perspectives that would not only enhance my technical skills but also help me develop a more global mindset. Studying abroad offered me the chance to learn from diverse experiences, build international connections, and grow both professionally and personally.

How did you pick your program?

I picked the STEM program because it aligned perfectly with my academic and career goals as an engineer. I wanted to deepen my knowledge in a field that is both global and ever-evolving. Additionally, London had always been a city I wanted to visit, not only for its rich history and culture but also because it’s a major hub for innovation and technology. Combining the opportunity to study in a cutting-edge STEM environment with the chance to explore a city I’d always dreamed of visiting made it an ideal choice for me.

What is something you learned about yourself? How are you different? How are you the same? Or, what did you realize about your own culture by living in another one?

Living in another culture really changed my view of the world. It opened my eyes to different ways of thinking, problem-solving, and living that I hadn’t considered before. I became more open-minded and adaptable, realizing how important it is to appreciate and understand diverse perspectives. It also made me excited to explore more of the world in the future. At the same time, I learned that while cultures may differ, many values and aspirations are universal, which made me feel connected to people in ways I hadn’t expected. I’m the same in that I still value hard work and curiosity, but now I approach challenges with a broader, more global mindset.

What advice would you give to another student?

My advice to another student would be to embrace the experience fully and step outside of your comfort zone. Studying abroad is a chance to learn, grow, and see the world in a new light. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, try new things, and connect with people from different backgrounds. Take every opportunity to explore not only academically but also culturally, as it will enrich your overall experience. Finally, stay open-minded and flexible — things may not always go as planned, but those moments often lead to the most rewarding experiences.

How did your study abroad experience prepare you for your future career?

My study abroad experience really broadened my perspective and made me more open to various career possibilities. It exposed me to new ways of thinking, innovative technologies, and global problem-solving approaches that I can apply to my future career as an engineer. The opportunity to collaborate with people from different backgrounds and cultures also helped me develop valuable communication and teamwork skills that are crucial in today’s interconnected world. It’s opened many doors and made me excited about the diverse career paths available, both internationally and in different sectors of engineering.

Would you do it again?

100% I would do it again. Freshman year, I never imagined I’d be the kind of person to study abroad, but this opportunity made it a reality. It exceeded all my expectations and opened up so many doors, both personally and professionally. The experience was truly life-changing, and I’d jump at the chance to do it all over again!