Patrick Sweeney

Studied Abroad in: Konstanz, Germany (Spring 2023) and Montpellier, France (Summer 2022) 

My time abroad in both Konstanz, Germany and Montpellier, France greatly enhanced my educational and personal experience. I was able to improve my language abilities in French though an intensive language course and homestay in the vibrant city of Montpellier, as well as in German through courses such as intensive German, German film, and German discussion and debate at the Universität Konstanz on the beautiful Bodensee Lake. During my time abroad, I was lucky enough to travel to many other countries in Europe, which further enhanced my understanding of international relations and foreign cultures. Through study abroad I became a lot more self-confident, independent, and resilient, and I feel that I am much more capable of understanding others and communicating inter-culturally. Looking back on my experiences, from visiting the Reichstag in Berlin to trying delicious new food in Slovakia and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, I know I’m the person I am today because I put myself out there. I am proud of what I was able to accomplish, will always treasure the memories as well as the amazing friends I made abroad, and am so happy I could make so many of my dreams come true. 

I am currently planning to complete an honors thesis on an international economics topic (topic to be determined). In the future, I plan to work post-graduation for a couple years and then complete a master’s degree in international affairs. I also plan to continue traveling and learning about the world, both on my own and possibly through other opportunities such as the DAAD scholarship.