Study Abroad Opens Up Unexpected Pathways
In 2017, Rachel Fuller '19 (biology) made arrangements to study abroad in Thailand, but at the last minute, she was forced to change her plans and ended up on Bonaire, a Caribbean island of which she had never before heard. Fuller recalls, "Life definitely had its own plans for me as I was diverted from Thailand to Bonaire at the very last second. In that moment, when Thailand slipped through my fingertips, I began to learn how to handle adversity and see new opportunities. When I was able to muster the courage to embrace the change from Thailand to Bonaire, the opportunities became visible."
In fall 2017, Fuller studied in Kralendijk, Bonaire with CIEE Study Abroad. The hands-on, immersive learning experiences there opened up new academic interests for Fuller. As she recalls, "In Bonaire, I found a strong and deeply rooted love for the oceans of the Earth and for scientific research." But her new discoveries went beyond academics. "I fell in love with the locals because of their simple lifestyle and outstanding personalities. These people were caring and vibrant in more ways than words can explain, and it is that kind-hearted nature that propelled me to see beyond myself and care for people as a whole. I never before felt so driven to spread kindness and smiles to others."
Fuller's time in Bonaire only ignited her desire to have more global experiences, and in summer 2018, she realized her dream of studying veterinary medicine in Thailand with Loop Abroad. She worked with elephants alongside US and Thai veterinarians. "The elephants are so huge and soulful. It was an extraordinary experience to work with them," she explains. For Fuller, this experience confirmed her goal of pursuing veterinarian medicine.
For both study abroad experiences, Fuller received funding from Virginia Wesleyan. To study in Bonaire, she received an award through the Global Scholars Program. Her study abroad experience in Thailand was funded through The Lighthouse's Summer High Impact Practice Program (SHIPP).
When asked what advice she would give other students, Fuller responded, "Just do it! Studying away was hands down the best decision I have made in my four undergraduate years, and I think anyone who decides to go for it will feel the same."
Studying abroad in Bonaire and Thailand provided Fuller with a critical life lesson: To be open to journeys that are not on your life's masterplan. As she explains, "I went into my study abroad experience thinking I knew exactly how my pathway would turn out. I used to be able to tell someone exactly where my life was leading, but now I am not so sure. Contrary to my prior belief, embracing the unknown is a blessing. I know there are many roads ahead, and I know I am bound to take a wrong turn or two. However, I also know that no matter where my life takes me, the growth I have seen in myself from studying abroad will carry on throughout this journey."