When Jessica Schroeder started her college journey at the University of Missouri, she had one goal: master math and graduate. What she didn’t expect? That a summer abroad would shake up her plans - in the best way possible. Fast forward to today: Jessica is a proud Mizzou graduate with a math degree, big dreams in geophysics, and a passport full of memories that changed her life. 

A Global Experience That Changed Everything 

Jessica spent six weeks abroad in Japan and South Korea through CIS Abroad, blending her academic interests with her love for Asian culture. Sure, there were temples and street food, but this wasn’t just about sightseeing - it was about growth. Living half a world away taught her independence, resilience, and that friendships don’t stop at borders (especially when they come with surprise cakes in Seoul!). 

Study Abroad for STEM Majors? Absolutely. 

Think STEM students can’t study abroad? Think again. Many assume it’s impossible with packed schedules or that coursework would not be relevant to the careers of these students, but Jessica’s story is a wonderful real-world example that proves otherwise. Her global experience didn’t derail her math degree; it supercharged it! Study abroad gave her confidence to take risks, cultural awareness to thrive in diverse environments, and a global perspective that will shape her future earthquake research. 

For Jessica, study abroad wasn’t just an adventure - it was a turning point! Read the full story about Jessica’s incredible journey and how Mizzou helped her find infinite possibilities with a math degree: Mizzou graduate finds infinite possibilities in a math degree 

For more information on the CIS Abroad program to Japan and South Korea that changed her life: Summer in Asia - Japan & South Korea