“Studying abroad during the Spring Semester of 2024 was an incredibly transformative experience for me, both personally and academically. My time at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, England, provided me with the opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture, travel to various countries, and learn about myself in ways I never anticipated. One of the most significant aspects of my study abroad experience was the chance to explore new places. I visited cities across England, including London, Bath, and Royal Tunbridge Wells, and ventured beyond to Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Spain, France, Slovakia, and Poland. Each destination offered unique insights and experiences, from the rich history of Rome to the vibrant energy of Barcelona. Traveling solo and with friends taught me how to navigate new environments confidently, plan and organize trips, and appreciate the diversity of cultures across Europe.

Studying abroad also had a profound impact on my academic and career aspirations. As a Business Management major, I found that the experience of planning and organizing my travels sparked a deeper interest in event planning. Coordinating flights, accommodations, and itineraries required a level of detail and foresight that I found both challenging and rewarding. This experience has influenced my career goals, leading me to seek internships and opportunities in event planning and experiential marketing.

On a personal level, studying abroad taught me the value of independence and self-discovery. While I have always enjoyed spending time with others, I learned to appreciate solitude and the importance of finding balance. Being away from home allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, face my fears, and embrace new challenges. This experience gave me the confidence to navigate unfamiliar situations and the resilience to overcome obstacles, qualities that will serve me well in my future endeavors.

Reflecting on my journey, I feel that study abroad provides an incomparable opportunity for growth in academics and personal development. It unites us with others, exposes us to a new culture, and gives us a view of who we really are. I am eager to share these experiences with other students at Ramapo College and make my contribution to initiatives that promote global learning. In doing so, whether through event organization, guidance, or just simply by sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to join the studying abroad experience and continue harnessing its transformative power.” – Sophia Riccobono ’26 is a Business Management major with a minor in Psychology.

Sophia is involved in RCTV, Women in Business, and Student Government as an Alternate Student Governor. She has also received the Presidential Scholarship, the Angelo Tarallo Memorial Scholarship, and the Sabrin Center Scholarship. In Spring, 2024, she studied abroad in the Foreign Exchange program at Cambridge, England.