Meet Giuliano Giove (He/Him)

Program and Location:

Summer, Summer Start Abroad in Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires, Argentina

Major/Minor:

Biological Sciences Major, Forensic Science and Biomanufacturing Minors

Why did you choose to study abroad?

I chose to study abroad because I wanted to experience a difference culture and a new place. I chose this study abroad program specifically because I have always wanted to go to South America and coming from an Early College perspective, studying abroad would have delayed my graduation so this was the perfect opportunity for me.

How did you pick your program?

I got an email about a summer opportunity of studying abroad.

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?

The main thing that I learned about myself being abroad here in Argentina was that I can pretty much enjoy my time anywhere no matter what limitations. During my time here there was a language barrier as I didn’t know much Spanish as the only second language I can understand well is French. Even though I couldn’t understand a lot I was able to adapt well in getting around the city, interacting with locals, as well as even doing everything I wanted to do here in Argentina.

I think the only difference that I experienced from this experience would be more confidence in traveling alone to places that don’t share similar culture as mine. Before embarking on this abroad trip I only went on trips to foreign countries with my family and once for a service trip. Even though I was part of a group for this trip I did go out on my own to explore the city to just get a better feel of the city and to sometimes clear my head. Doing this I feel more confidence in my travel abilities and do plan on traveling to various countries in the future.

What advice would you give to another student?

The advice I would give to another student would be to enjoy the experience, have an open mind, and even if you are on the fence about considering it, do it. I am a shy person, so going in, I wasn’t very talkative with the group. However, toward the end, and being in the country, I became more comfortable and made lots of good memories with them.

Also just being in a different country and exploring and having the experience is not only a rewarding but refreshing experience. I felt more at ease and relaxed taking the classes abroad compared to taking them during the semester at NC State. While there were a lot of troubles getting to our destination (a few airport issues) we all managed to maintain a positive attitude and had a good time.

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?

The classes were different abroad compared to NC State as I felt more involved and interactive with the material, allowing me to learn the information better. For example, in the country, we got to tour all of these different plants seeing all the different food development of food science as well as going to a farm to see the agricultural perspective. After seeing this in person it was easier to answer questions and understand more about the industry and material within class and assignments we had at home.

Would you do it again?

Yes, if I was able to study abroad again I would. I enjoyed learning about various new cultures as well as having the freedom to do what I want abroad.