Lobb Finds Growth, Impactful Academics During Study Abroad Experience in Cyprus
Jessica Lobb
When Jessica Lobb began as an undergraduate student at the University of Arkansas, she knew she wanted to study abroad to help prepare her for attending medical school. But the biology major’s desire to find an experience she couldn’t get in the United States led her to a unique study abroad location, one that offered impactful and hands-on coursework, personal growth, and cultural immersion.
Lobb spent four weeks last summer studying in Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean Sea. The experience fulfilled a goal the Fayetteville native had since before enrolling at the U of A after hearing about the impact studying abroad had on university students.
“I believe that studying abroad is the best way to propel oneself personally and academically,” she said. “It provides a new outlook on the world, and I knew it would push me outside my comfort zone. The program I chose in Cyprus offered unique courses, and I liked that it was not a place I would have picked to visit on my own.”
Her coursework provided unique and experiential learning that helped prepare her for medical school. “Clinical Anatomy and Skills” course examined human anatomy and how to use it in clinical examinations, and “Management of Care” outlined the goals of healthcare and the responsibilities of health professionals to uphold quality patient care.
“My study abroad experience gave me a firsthand look into what life will be like as a medical school student,” she said. “My ‘Clinical Anatomy and Skills’ course was held in a medical school classroom, which provided many opportunities not available at the undergraduate level. This included using human cadavers to learn structures, and lifelike models to practice clinical skills. This enhanced my interest and excitement in healthcare and bolstered my foundational knowledge of medicine.”
Her time in Cyprus included organized trips each weekend to explore different parts of the island, including cities and historic sites, with a particular highlight being Aphrodite’s Rock, the supposed birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite. It also included outdoor excursions such as a boat tour, ATV riding, and cliff jumping.
But the true highlight of her time abroad was the cuisine.
“The local restaurant owners were very excited to talk about their authentic dishes, and made you feel at home in their restaurant,” she said. “In Cyprus, the culture is for people to connect during meals, so it is common to spend multiple hours at dinner. This allowed me to grow close with the other students on my program, and we got to share many stories and laughs.”
“I would absolutely recommend studying abroad to every student on campus,” she added. “There are many program options, both through the University of Arkansas and external programs, so I believe everyone can find one that suits their interests and goals. In a world that is globalizing more and more every day, it is becoming increasingly important to gain an international perspective no matter which field one is in. I made memories that will last a lifetime.”
For more information about studying abroad, visit the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange website.
This story also appeared in the University of Arkansas News publication.