Alumni Spotlight: Dayna Kurzrok

Dayna is from the suburbs of Pennsylvania. She is 21 years old and this upcoming year will be a senior at Towson University. She's studying psychology and communications.

Why did you decide to study abroad with ISA?

Dayna: I decided to study abroad because I wanted a summer that I would never forget. I also wanted the opportunity to travel and experience a new culture. I chose ISA because it seemed to have everything I wanted. There were a wide variety of locations to choose from and many different terms to select. I was not able to go abroad a whole semester, so my only option was to go during the summer which is something ISA had. The website and programs were organized, extremely easy to follow, and included excess information. There were several planned out activities included in the trip that caught my eye. I also thought that the student reviews were insightful. I read nothing but great evaluations about the program and friendly staff.

Dayna at Parliament

Tell us about an experience you had that you could not have had at home:

Dayna: There are numerous experiences I had abroad that I could not have had at home. Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and it has truly helped shape the person I am today. One of my all-time favorite memories is traveling to the Olympics at the end of my trip. With excitement running through my blood, there was still a lot I had to plan out. I had to book another place to stay, collect my ticket, figure out how to get there, and navigate through the city of London. Studying abroad has encouraged me to be independent, responsible, and confident.

What did ISA do for you and what did you need to do on your own?

Dayna: The ISA program was so easy-going and fun. Many activities were planned but not mandatory (even though everyone wanted to go to everything!). The education abroad team found the perfect medium between guiding me to find things to do/places to see and allowing me to venture out on my own. The education abroad team was terrific and so loving. They truly took good care of us! One day I got very sick with a high temperature. Maria, one of the ISA staff members came to my dorm with medicine, snacks, and juice. I thought it was such a sweet gesture and I felt so fortunate.

Dayna and friends in London

Describe your favorite must-have food that you tried abroad:

Dayna: Unfortunately I am not that daring when it comes to food. On this trip I tried to be as adventurous as I could so I tried a London classic… fish and chips. Fish and chips consist of battered fish and deep-fried chips. To my surprise, I really enjoyed this dish and it became one of my favorites during my time abroad!