One of the study abroad programs offered at for Computer Science majors is the University of Tartu, Estonia ISEP program. Mason Bair, a junior Computer Science major at , recently shared what his experience has been like studying in Estonia for an academic year.
Mason emphasized that the Estonia program allows people to immerse themselves in Tartu.
“The program is an ISEP Direct program, which allowed me to become an international visiting student at the University of Tartu. The professors at the university teach all the classes that I take…and most people in the city of Tartu are students.”
The Estonia program also allows students to have freedom outside of their class time. Mason explained how he likes to spend his free time, saying that
“My favorite thing that I have done on my exchange is taking weekend trips with some of my friends. We would be a group of 10 people and rent two cars, rent an Airbnb, and then just drive and have a great weekend together as a group! It also allowed me to see a good chunk of what Estonia has to offer, but I still have a lot more to see.”
Estonia has a fascinating culture that students are sure to love. Mason spoke about Estonia’s cultural events, stating that
“Estonia has a lot of cultural events. For example, Estonia has a lot of light shows, which incorporate lasers, spotlights, and some dancers. These are always really amazing to see.”
Mason praised the natural beauty of the country, “I have fallen in love with Estonia's wilderness,” he said. “Firstly, the amount of unique plants in an area is amazing. In addition, Estonia is known for this biome called a bog. And these bogs are some of my favorite places to go.”
Mason described how the University of Tartu program in Estonia prioritizes independence. He said, “My program actually does not have any Students or faculty. Since this is a direct program, I am on my own!” Students who participate in may be the only student, or one of a few, studying at their host institution. ISEP programs offer opportunities for students to be immersed in the local culture and take classes alongside students local to their host country.
Estonia has had a large impact on Mason that he believes other students can experience. He explained how he has changed throughout this program,
“This experience definitely helped show me that there is more to life for me than just being in the United States. I learned how there are many opportunities for me around the world, and that I should not be afraid to just go for it.”
Mason believes that no students should be afraid of taking on the Estonia program.
“My biggest advice is to be open minded and not be afraid. Estonia is an amazing country, and everyone here has a strong level of English so communicating is easy.”
Are you interested in studying abroad in Estonia? Learn more about the University of Tartu, Estonia program here.
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