In this episode of Abroaden Your Horizons, we’re joined by Santa Clara University students Fernando Salvador Francisco, a Communication major with a focus in filmmaking and a minor in technical theater, and Lindsey Gebhardt, a Chemistry major. These two close friends studied abroad on opposite sides of the globe- literally- in Cork, Ireland, and Auckland, New Zealand (yes, they even tested the distance!).

We dive into their unique journeys, navigating culture shock, finding community abroad, and readjusting to life back home—all while staying connected from thousands of miles apart. They also reflect on what led them to study abroad: Lindsey, whose mom's own global adventures inspired her, and Francisco, a first-generation college student forging his own path. Their story is a celebration of friendship, growth, and the unexpected ways that studying abroad can shape who you become.