Living abroad for two years

Participants of the Dual Degree Program share thoughts about their time abroad

Mayella Vasquez / Asst. Feature Editor / The USD Vista

While most students study abroad for a couple weeks during intersession or for a semester, two sophomore Toreros have made the decision to spend two years of their college experience in Portugal as a part of the University of San Diego’s Dual Degree Program.

According to a 2018 report by the Institute for International Education, the University of San Diego has the highest undergraduate study abroad participation rate in the United States, clocking in at 76.9 percent of undergrad Toreros choosing to pursue their studies in an entirely different country. 

Javen Torres and Erica Reid, sophomores, are attending the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP). They have begun this semester in Lisbon, Portugal and will not return to USD until their senior year. 

This two-year program is a unique study abroad opportunity for International Business majors, as it allows students to receive a degree from both UCP and USD. 

While living in a foreign country for two years might seem like a big step for some, Torres is confident in his decision to study in Portugal because of the unique opportunity he sees in this experience.

“So far, I am happy with my decision,” Torres said. “It is evident that the experience will come with a great outcome. UCP is very regarded in the business world which will lead to many new global opportunities.” 

Though Torres is receiving a quality education, the classes can be challenging.

“The classes are much more demanding than any I have ever taken,” Torres said. “The environment is very different as well.”

Each class at UCP has two sections. In theoretical classes, professors lecture. In practical classes, students practice the material. Therefore, for each class a student takes there will be two professors, giving students more support in this new learning environment.  Though classes are taught in English, the material itself can be challenging.  

Besides keeping up with school, these students must adjust to life abroad. Torres expressed that living in a new and unfamiliar country can be a culture shock at first.

“There are some cultural differences,” said Torres, “For example, alcohol consumption and smoking cigarettes as a teenager is common. And dressing nicely to class is a way of showing respect for the school and its professors.”

Despite certain challenges, Torres expressed gratitude for this unique opportunity and amazement at how his world view had shifted after immersing himself in Portuguese culture.

“Living abroad has helped me realize that there is much more out there than we know,” Torres said. “We often limit ourselves to opportunities in the United States, but there is more out there than what we take advantage of.”

Sophomore Erica Reid shared similar sentiments.

“Even when I think about how far away from home I am, I still think this is good for me,” Reid said. 

Students are responsible for their housing, transportation, and housework, independent from USD, an adjustment that has been difficult for Reid.

“Day to day, my feelings change with regards to coming to terms with my decision,” Reid said. “This is my first time being alone.”

Juggling adult life and her studies can be challenging, especially while acclimating to a completely new environment and language. However, Reid has not encountered as many problems with the language barrier as she thought she would.

“I was expecting to struggle more with communication, but most people speak English,” said Reid. “Classes have been the most challenging part for me.”

Besides engaging with Portuguese culture, Reid shares a flat with international students from France and Slovenia, giving her cultural insight into life in those countries as well.

Reid is also learning about and engaging in UCP’s traditions. One way UCP introduces new students is through a weekend camping trip. On this trip, there are different activities allowing students to get to know each other. For Reid, it was also one of her first introductions to Portuguese culture. 

Reid regards her experience as positive. However, she advised those considering this program to think a lot about the decision, as there is more personal responsibility and adjustment than one might expect.

Torres agreed with this sentiment, additionally citing that the negative aspects of studying abroad ultimately strengthen the individual.

“The cons of living abroad are that there are many things to adjust to,” Torres said. “However, it helps develop adaptability, which is a crucial trait.”

This Dual Degrees Program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to acquire unique life skills such as total independence and a more cultured perspective. USD offers this program in Ireland, Spain, Italy, or France, and interested students can find out more by emailing contact@ipbsedu.com or visiting the USD International Center.