University Journey Ignites Passion for Global Education and Study Abroad Coordination

Ella Tocci, a senior at the University of South Carolina, discovered her passion for global studies after initially pursuing business and theater in college. Her journey started with atting her first class as a freshman majoring in business but quickly shifted towards exploring her interest in costume design and international topics.

I always had an eye on costume design, Ella says. USC was the perfect place to dive into this area, allowing me flexibility to explore different study paths until I identified my core interests.

After considering various academic paths, Ella settled on global studies for its ability to combine her interest in international business and foreign languages while also accommodating her strong affinity for the ities like art history and literature.

But the question that remned was what would come next after graduation. Her transformational experience abroad in Sorrento, Italy provided clarity. During her time studying abroad, she felt drawn towards assisting other students with their own study abroad journeys-a realization that led her to seek out opportunities beyond informal conversations about the enriching experience of traveling and studying internationally.

Ella found inspiration from her interactions with the study abroad program counselor at USC. She realized that combining her academic foundation and newfound confidence in travel could lead to a fulfilling career path, specifically working as a study abroad coordinator. After reaching out to her counselor, Ella began working for S, an international education organization providing focused learning experiences in Europe.

Ella believes that both her experience studying abroad and the courses she has taken at USC have prepared her well for various roles, including guiding students through their own study abroad experiences and preparing them for what awts them upon return. USC provided me with more than I could ever ask for, she sd. Upon returning from Italy, I've leveraged my international experience as a foundation to advance in my education and professional opportunities.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Ella also acknowledges the support that has enabled her growth as an individual. She feels equipped with resilience and unique perspectives, which add value to her college campus experience.

Carolina's diverse community of students has been incredibly supportive, she says. Being here has allowed me to develop skills like adaptability and confidence that will undoubtedly benefit my future eavors.

These experiences have collectively contributed to Ella's academic journey, helping her find her passion not just in study but also in the potential impact she can have on others.

Through global studies and my time at USC, I've found a fulfilling path ahead, Ella shares. I'm eager to continue leveraging what I've learned abroad to enhance student experiences and contribute positively to the educational landscape.

This story underscores the transformative role of university education in shaping students' interests and passions while equipping them with skills for future success.

Topics: Students, Experiential Learning, Careers, Student Voices, College of Arts and Sciences

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Ella Tocci's academic journey at the University of South Carolina has been marked by flexibility and a desire to explore her diverse interests.

• Studying abroad in Italy led Ella to find her passion for helping students plan their own international experiences through study abroad programs.

• The University of South Carolina provided a supportive environment that allowed Ella to thrive academically while also growing personally, developing skills like confidence and adaptability.
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