Studying abroad in Italy and London was one of the most transformative experiences of my undergraduate career. As a zoology major with a focus on animal behavior and neurobiology, I never anticipated that I would spend part of my summer climbing centuries-old bell towers, walking through ancient ruins, or touring large-scale industrial factories. This program broadened my perspective by showing me how science is deeply embedded in history, architecture, engineering, and everyday life.

Academically, this experience allowed me to step beyond the traditional boundaries of my field. I became more adaptable and engaged with disciplines I had not explored before. In London, I visited the Royal Society and saw historical scientific instruments, including microscopes whose precision reflected the foundational role of mathematics in biological research. I also learned about the origins of penicillin at Oxford, which deepened my appreciation for how medical advancements often result from interdisciplinary collaboration. In Florence, exploring the Duomo and nearby churches helped me understand how mathematical knowledge influenced not only science but also art and engineering. These experiences emphasized that understanding scientific progress often requires a look into the past.

This program also strengthened my long-term career goals. I plan to pursue veterinary school, and I was surprised and excited to discover meaningful connections between my interests and the sites we visited. During our visit to the Mars chocolate factory, I learned not only about food production, but also about the company’s involvement in pet nutrition and veterinary science. It was rewarding to see how my goals aligned with work being done on a global scale.

Personally, this experience helped me grow in confidence and independence. Prior to this program, I had never traveled alone. I learned how to navigate foreign airports, ask for help in unfamiliar languages, and stay calm when facing challenges. On my very first day in London, I dropped my gyro from a Greek restaurant on the floor and still chose to eat it. That moment reminded me not to expect perfection and to embrace the unexpected with humor and flexibility.

This experience also improved my ability to communicate across language and cultural barriers. I learned how to listen carefully, speak clearly, and adapt my communication style when interacting with individuals who spoke little English or had strong accents. Small cultural differences—such as adjusting to traffic patterns, sidewalk flow, or public transportation—taught me to be observant, respectful, and open-minded.

Before participating in this program, I believed studying abroad might not apply to my major or could be overwhelming. In reality, I felt safe, supported, and constantly challenged to grow. This opportunity made me more curious, resilient, and connected to the world, and I would strongly recommend it to any student regardless of academic background.

Name: Abigail Deming
Status: Senior
Major: Zoology
Hometown: Fenton, Michigan
Program: Engineering the Modern World: How Mathematics Shaped History