Hayley Herzog – Spring 18
In what city or town did you grow up in?
Long Island, New York
Where are you currently living?
New York, New York
What was your major?
Global Public Health, Social Work, Gender and Sexuality Studies
Why did you choose to study away at NYU Sydney?
I chose NYU Sydney because I wanted to go somewhere with diversity politically, socially, and environmentally. The coursework aligned with my Global Public Health requirements, so I was able to satisfy what I wanted from a global site and what was needed academically at NYU Sydney.
How would you describe your experience at NYU Sydney?
My study away experience was truly my best semester at NYU. I have always been skeptical of people who claimed that studying abroad was the best thing you could do in undergrad, but being in Sydney was the best thing I’ve done thus far in my collegiate career. Though I tried to have no expectations, I wanted a fun semester where I could learn about myself, this new country, and a new group of people; I accomplished everything that I hoped for.
What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite class was Child and Adolescent Brain Development: Applications from Neuroscience to Practice with Dr. Suraj Samtani. The class was both informative and stimulating, and I always left both excited about what we were learning and inspired. Dr. Samtani’s knowledge and passion for the subject was felt by the entire class, making the class one of the most enjoyable experiences at NYU. When I run into friends we reminisce about this class, all the things we learned, and how we’ve applied them in our lives.
Did you undertake an internship and what did you think of the experience?
I wanted to be able to experience everything I could in Sydney, and it lead me to the George Institute for Global Health. While at the George I performed, designed, and produced a systematic review on the impact and factors associated with gender-based violence, inter-partner violence, and their relationship to chronic physical pain, that is in the process of being published. My time at the George exceeded all expectations that I had. I was able to learn from people who were willing to teach me while also doing concrete and substantial work. I had the opportunity to work closely with my supervisor and other staff members but also work on tasks individually, learning and improving my knowledge along the way. The George offered a safe and exploratory environment for me and its full time staff and I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to work there.
What was your favorite trip, excursion (Student Life or class related)?
My favorite trip was my epidemiology class trip to the Quarantine Station. We toured the station, learned some fun facts about healthcare, and experienced the station’s historical significance to Australia.
Where are you currently working/studying?
I am currently finishing my bachelor of science at the New York campus. While continuing my undergraduate education, I am working at the Empower Lab, The Institute for Family Health, and NYU’s College of Dentistry.
When thinking about your experience at NYU Sydney what stands out to you most?
Being in Sydney gave me a confidence I don’t think I could’ve gotten if I stayed in New York for another semester. Being abroad showed me I could do anything. I left behind my safety nets and moved halfway across the world to a country I’ve never been to, with people I didn’t know, for an unknown experience. Sydney taught me I can accomplish and survive anything I set my mind to.
How has your experience at NYU Sydney impacted life after college?
As I enter my senior year of my undergraduate career, I am excited to see how my collegiate experiences impact my life after college. Though I don’t know what is to come, I know I will carry the lessons I learned in Sydney with me.