We’re so excited for Miette, the winner of our first-ever Outstanding Study Abroad Student of the Year Award! At the end of Spring 2020, Miette received a cash prize of $500.
Miette is a Chattanooga local. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from UTC and is now pursuing her MBA. Miette has spent time in a whopping eight countries during her time at UTC.
In addition to her academic accomplishments, Miette has long been an active member of the #UTCGlobal family. Last year alone, she volunteered with CGE numerous times, sharing her study abroad stories at events like the Study Abroad Fair and Study Abroad 101. She was also a member of the International Buddy Program.
At CGE’s virtual End-of-the-Year Celebration in May, Miette presented an inspiring speech to an audience of over 50 participants, saying:
“I am most thankful for all the international experiences I’ve been able to have at my age! In the last two years I’ve gotten to go to eight countries. This is largely because I’ve gotten a partial scholarship for three study abroad programs I went on.
International education has opened my eyes to so many things. I think anyone who’s been abroad has a greater tolerance for new ideas and kinds of people. I believe the quote, ‘The world is a book, and those who do not travel only read one page.’
What I love most about the CGE specifically is how friendly everyone is. When I went to my first international tea time my first semester, I was introduced to a very friendly community (including all the faculty!) where everyone wanted to get to know each other. I love how the CGE makes everyone feel like they can travel, and especially all of the financial aid.
Unfortunately, I had a big 24-day trip canceled this May. I’ve learned that the unexpected can happen at any point and I should be prepared for things to not always go my way, but also to look for the positives. Now I’ll be able to afford a bigger trip next year because I have more time to save!
As for the future, I have a year and a half still left on my master’s. I chose part-time and an online program so I have more time to travel before I have to fully settle down. My interactions with students at UTC showed me that I want to work in higher education, so I’ll be pursuing a career at UTC or another university in advising, student involvement, or international education.”
Congratulations, Miette! We’re so proud of you.
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