Study Abroad gives freshman Kaden Watson first overseas experience

As Kaden Watson drove from Palmdale to start his academic journey at Fresno State, he found himself surrounded by farmland, unsure if he would feel welcome on campus. 

An incoming business management major, Watson chose to attend college in Fresno mainly because his high school history teacher, an alum of Fresno State, spoke highly of the university. 

Kaden Watson walking along a narrow road in Florence.
photos by Cody Pederson

“It really feels like another home,” Watson said. “I enjoy the people and the friends I’ve made. I never expected it to be this welcoming.”

Among the connections Watson made during his first year on campus, is a mentorship with the vice president of Student Affairs, Dr. Kent Willis, who shared with Watson an opportunity to study in Florence, Italy over the summer. 

Watson had not previously considered participating in a study abroad program, but decided to enroll in the two-week course hosted by Fresno State’s Division of Continuing and Global Education, stating, “It was a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

In Florence, Watson was one of nearly 20 students, studying Italian and the historical, cultural and artistic traditions of the city. The course itinerary included visiting Palazzo Vecchio, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Boboli Gardens, and other museums and galleries. 

Watson and a friend take a selfie with historic artwork in the background

As this was Watson’s first time outside of the United States, he initially experienced culture shock, but became more comfortable in his surroundings and developed a deep appreciation for it all. He said, “We explored museums and learned about different statues, paintings, Leonardo da Vinci and his art, sculptures, the details of his work. It was profound. He was interesting and intriguing.”

After returning to Fresno, Watson began his second year at Fresno State, where he is a member of the Maxine McDonald Residential Scholars Program. He aspires to become a certified public accountant after completing his degree. 

“Employers look to hire well-rounded students with life experience and experience working with people of different backgrounds,” said Terree Stevenson, associate vice president of Student Affairs and dean of students. “Study abroad prepares them for the next stage of life and helps set them apart from other candidates. In my 25 plus years in higher education, every student I’ve met who’s participated in study abroad says only positive things about how it’s changed their life.”

To learn more about study abroad opportunities at Fresno State, visit https://cge.fresnostate.edu/studyabroad/index.html. 

by MARISA MATA

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