Learning Abroad as a TWC Student

In spring 2025, TWC majors Ava Gilhoi and Elizabeth Gordon had the opportunity to study abroad. Ava studied in Limerick, Ireland with the program University Study in Ireland: University of Limerick and Elizabeth studied in Sydney, New South Wales (NSW), Australia with the program University Study in Australia: University of Sydney (USYD). Learn all about their experiences and advice for TWC students below! 

Why did you decide to study abroad and how did you pick your program?

Ava: I decided to study abroad because I wanted to experience a different culture, push myself out of my comfort zone, and gain context on how other countries study technical communication.

Elizabeth: I always knew that I wanted to study abroad, and part of the reason I came to UMN was because there were so many study abroad programs to choose from. I felt like I *had* to study abroad to get a fuller understanding of the world, which I can say has made me a better technical writer. As a TWC student, I always think that the number one factor to keep in mind is audience, and what better way is there to broaden your horizons and understand the people around you than by traveling? I chose this program for three reasons: (1) When would I ever have the chance to go to Australia again, especially for an extended time? It's so far away, so this felt like the perfect opportunity. (2) USYD is one of the best universities in the world, and I could tell the faculty were top-class. I had amazing professors, and I truly learned so much from them. Plus, USYD has an absolutely gorgeous campus--like something straight out of Harry Potter. In fact, all of Sydney is lovely with its dozens of beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and the Opera House! Finally, (3) I didn't have to worry about learning a new language. I applaud anyone who studies abroad and immerses themself in a new language, but I am so glad that I chose an English-speaking country; it made my life ten times easier when navigating around the city, and I feel like the cultural differences weren’t that drastic. It was very easy to get used to life in Australia.

What were some of the classes you took while studying abroad?

Ava: Introduction to Programming, Introduction to Website Design, and Writing for New Media.

Elizabeth: I took 3 courses: Fundamentals of Visual Design, Korean Popular Culture, and I had a User Experience (UX) internship at a digital development studio called Miroma Project Factory in Redfern, NSW! The first course was for my TWC sub-plan and UX minor, and the second course was for my Korean minor. The internship was mainly focused on UX, but it had a lot of overlap with TWC, especially when it came down to doing write-ups about my team's products (which was a frequent task!). For my internship, I worked 9-5 twice a week, and I had biweekly workshops at the university to discuss career readiness in an international environment. The internship course was only available for students studying abroad.

What was your favorite part of studying abroad?

Ava: ​​I loved traveling to different countries on the weekends. Traveling in Europe is cheaper and more effective, especially when you're traveling with friends!

Elizabeth: I would go to weekly pub trivia with friends I made while abroad! It helped me learn about Australian current events, history, and culture. It also gave me an excuse to hang out with the people I met at USYD, and when the oddball question about American history came up, I got to show off to all the Aussies. My team never won, but we always had so much fun!

What would you recommend to TWC students considering studying abroad?

Ava: I would recommend going when you're early in your degree progress. Most of the classes they offer will be helpful in completing your sub-plan requirements. My sub-plan is in Information, Technology and Design. If you don't want to do any catch-up work, fall is the best time to go. A lot of the Limerick classes are two parts. The first part is in the fall, and the second part is in the spring.

Elizabeth: Don't feel discouraged that many institutions don't offer specific Technical Writing programs or courses. I thought it would be difficult to find classes that help fulfill my major requirements, which made me think studying abroad would be impossible. Try to find courses that fit your subplan instead. Just about every school will have courses about design, communication, computer science, biology, chemistry, environmental science, political science, and sociology. There are so many options! If you can't find anything, you should still go abroad for the experience and take something fun that will open your eyes to the local culture. For example, USYD had a class about Australian sports culture that let people go to rugby games for free!

Considering studying abroad? Please visit TWC Study Abroad to learn more.