Student Spotlight: Sloan Berry

For Sloan Berry, a sophomore aerospace engineering major at Mississippi State University, a study abroad trip to Europe proved to be a life-changing experience. As a presidential scholar, Berry had the opportunity to spend two months exploring the continent through the Bagley College of Engineering’s Engineering Economy study abroad program. The journey pushed her far beyond her comfort zone - with incredible results.

The Brandon, Mississippi native has been involved in the Famous Maroon Band since freshman year, playing the flute and piccolo. She also serves as the president of CubeSat, MSU’s student design team working to launch Mississippi’s first satellite. Despite her busy schedule, she knew a study abroad trip was an opportunity she couldn't pass up.

"It's so amazing to say that I went to Europe and talk about everything I’ve seen," Berry said. The engineering-focused trip allowed Berry to experience new cultures and see how different perspectives can shape problem-solving approaches in her field.

One of her most significant takeaways was the independence and confidence she gained throughout the journey. There were times, she said, when they would travel to a new city, but their scheduled activities weren’t until the next day, leaving them whole days to explore on their own. Navigating these new experiences was initially daunting, yet she quickly recognized her capabilities.

"I think what stuck with me most was being able to learn that I had that in me, learning that I could go by myself, map out directions, find things to do on my own," she said. “It’s even helped me since coming back home. I feel more confident applying for internships and taking on new challenges.”

Berry’s favorite destinations from the trip include the charming city of Bordeaux, France, and the vibrant culture of Spain.

"I'd love to go back to Spain. We had so much fun on the beaches, and seeing Sagrada Familia was one of the most memorable things that stuck out to me so much about this trip. It was seeing that and seeing its architecture," she said.

The group also ventured to Florence and Rome, where they toured iconic sites, from the Colosseum to the Vatican. Berry describes the surreal experience of seeing these historical landmarks in person, rather than just in textbooks. "It didn't feel real. It didn't look real. It didn't feel real," she says. "It was such a bizarre feeling to be here, and this is a real place where people walked; there's so much history of where you were."

For Berry, the study abroad trip was a transformative experience that pushed her to grow in ways she never imagined.

"If you are on the fence; you're already halfway there! You should go ahead and go," she advised.

Berry’s newfound confidence and adventurous spirit have undoubtedly shaped her outlook on the world and her future. As she continues her studies in aerospace engineering, the lessons she learned abroad will certainly serve her personally and professionally.