Marika Michalska - Boise State University, Idaho, USA

ISEP Study Abroad Programme 2023/24

“My semester in Boise, Idaho was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that opened my eyes to new possibilities, connected me with amazing people, and left an indelible mark on my heart.”

Memorable moments

Some memorable moments from my semester abroad include meeting new friends, who are now my best friends, from every corner of the globe. Stepping onto Boise's Blue Turf was a movie-like moment; being in Boise and able to experience an American football spring game was just phenomenal.

I also enjoyed taking walks and bike rides along the Boise River Greenbelt, a scenic pathway that winds through the city, offering beautiful views of the river, parks, and nature. I loved picnics by the water and was also able to spot wildlife like ducks and geese, which are common throughout the campus.

New culture

Boise has a friendly atmosphere typical of many American small towns. The community is known for its welcoming and open nature, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and a slower pace of life. People in Boise are approachable and by far the nicest I have ever met, reflecting the city's overall relaxed vibe.

Boise is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with the Boise River Greenbelt, Boise Foothills, and nearby mountain ranges providing endless opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and river activities. Boise's food culture is a blend of traditional American fare with influences from various immigrant communities, including Basque, Mexican, and Asian cuisines. The city has a strong farm-to-table movement, with a huge emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

Challenges while abroad

Spending a semester in Boise has been both exciting and challenging. Adjusting to the cultural differences between Ireland and Boise was difficult at first. The way people interact, local customs, and even the pace of life in Boise felt unfamiliar. Additionally, being away from home for an extended period led to homesickness, and I missed family and friends. To overcome this, I made sure I became friends with the right people, such as locals and other international students, which helped me find a support network that made me feel at ease. Engaging in local activities and exploring Boise helped me gradually acclimate to the new environment. Staying in regular contact with loved ones back home through FaceTime helped alleviate homesickness.

The academic system in America differed significantly from that in Ireland, with variations in teaching styles, assessment methods, and classroom expectations. I faced challenges in adapting to these new teaching methods. I overcame this by seeking support from my teachers, who were just incredible and wanted to help me adapt to this new life.

Additionally, time management and adapting to new study methods were essential in meeting the academic demands. I noticed differences in social norms and communication styles in Boise compared to back home. For example, Americans are very direct, and there might be less emphasis on small talk than in Irish culture.

Lastly, managing finances in a new country with a different currency and cost of living was challenging at first. Budgeting for food, rent, transportation, and leisure activities while also considering exchange rates required careful planning. To manage this, I created a budget early on and tracked my spending daily.

Making friends

This is my all-time favourite thing to talk about. During my semester abroad in Boise, I found it extremely easy to make friends and meet people from all around the world. The international student community at Boise State was incredibly welcoming, and I quickly connected with fellow exchange students who became 'my home away from home'.

Our amazing exchange student coordinators, Tim and Ruth, created a WhatsApp group before going abroad to meet some new international students before departure. This is how I met Kye, my first friend in Boise - we connected from the very beginning. Nora and Signe from Norway were the next people I connected with; their warmth and shared sense of adventure made every day more fun. Erbol from Kyrgyzstan brought a unique perspective to our group of seven. And last but not least, Hugh and Kieren from Australia added their own mix of humour and camaraderie, making our group dynamic even more vibrant.

Beyond my international friends, I also met Haley, who was my roommate in the dorms. If it wasn't for Haley, I know that my experience would've been completely different. Beyond all of this, I was fortunate enough to meet some amazing American students as well. Katie, Kass, Reegan, Luke, Saxon, Tyler, Khort, Nolan, Izzy, Kaylee, Leila, and Lauren were instrumental in helping me feel at home.

They introduced me to local hotspots, invited me to events, and showed me the true meaning of American hospitality. Whether we were exploring the city, studying together, going to frat parties, or simply hanging out, these friendships made my time in Boise unforgettable. The ease with which I connected with such a diverse group of people was one of the best highlights of my experience abroad.

Advice

If there is a small part of you thinking about studying abroad, DO IT, especially in a place like Boise, Idaho. Let me tell you - it's a decision that will change your life in ways you cannot even imagine.

This isn't just about earning credits or adding a new line to your CV; it's about stepping out of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in an experience that will shape who you are. You'll find yourself in a completely different environment, surrounded by people from different corners of the world, each with their own stories, perspectives, and dreams.

The friendships you form will be deep and lasting, and the memories you create will stay with you forever. You'll have the chance to explore new places, like the breathtaking landscapes of Idaho or nearby gems like Salt Lake City. You'll discover new passions, challenge your perspectives, and grow in ways you never thought possible.

Yes, there will be challenges - moments of homesickness, cultural differences, or the occasional struggle to adapt. But every challenge is an opportunity to learn, to become stronger, and to realise that you are capable of so much more than you ever believed.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the world, to learn about yourself, and to become a global citizen. Embrace every moment: the highs and the lows, because this journey will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. So take that leap, say yes to the unknown, and watch as your world expands in ways you never dreamed. Studying abroad is more than an adventure; it’s a transformative journey that will leave you with a heart full of memories and a soul enriched with the beauty of diversity!