Abby Novak, US Study Abroad Student at Vesalius College
When deciding where to study abroad, I had very few requirements for a potential location. However, the one qualification I strongly desired in a study abroad location was a hugely international setting. I therefore decided upon Brussels, and found myself studying at Vesalius College.
Abby Novak inside an old windmill, near Brussels
Much like its host city, Vesalius is an extremely diverse institution for its size. Just as one hears multiple languages on the Brussels metro, so too does one hear the same linguistic abundance walking through the Vesalius hallways. Vesalius is also unique through its position as a liberal arts institution, demanding from its students, not only quality work but also knowledge of all subject areas in addition to excellence in their major.
Through the many international studies courses offered, I’ve greatly expanded my knowledge of international and European affairs, getting an up-close examination of the European Union available nowhere else in the world. I have also found that Vesalius professors have a real passion for their subjects and provide students with inclusive classroom situations, utilizing the cultural differences present in the student body to further discussions.
Additionally, through interning with an NGO, my work experience has become global. Although my predominant working language is English, I also spoke Spanish, French, Portuguese and Catalan while interning.
Studying at Vesalius College has also afforded me the opportunity to further explore the city of Brussels through many of the events sponsored by the Vesalius Student Government, giving me the opportunity to learn more about this intriguing city while also bonding with classmates whose origins span the globe.