A man poses for a picture outdoors
Layne Woodruff took a study abroad opportunity, traveling to Salzburg, Austria, where he spent nearly one year studying and enjoying the cultural experience. (supplied photo)

BGSU computer science student expands professional network during year-long study abroad experience

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Layne Woodruff traveled to Salzburg, Austria, where he studied computer science and picked up a second language

By Branden Ferguson

Layne Woodruff always wanted to visit a German-speaking country when he was in high school, but said it was a luxury he and his family couldn't afford. After transferring to Bowling Green State University as a computer science major, he took advantage of an opportunity to study abroad in Salzburg, Austria.

"Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I ever made," said Woodruff. "Not only was it affordable, but I also had the opportunity to experience a different country and pick up a second language."

BGSU offers hundreds of international academic programs in more than 50 countries worldwide during the summer and academic year. Interested in German, Woodruff traveled to Austria, spending nearly a full year overseas.

People walking in a town square at night
Layne Woodruff spent his time outside of the classroom talking with locals and enjoying daily traditions like walking to get fresh bread. (supplied photo)

"Most people speak English in Austria, but I was determined to learn German," said Woodruff. "I would travel to different places trying to speak the native language, leading to me picking up a German minor and becoming fluent in the language."

When Woodruff wasn't enjoying the local culture, he was in the classroom taking what he called "some of the hardest classes" he had ever taken.

"Expectations for students are drastically different compared to the United States," he said. "Students there don't have homework. They read entire textbooks, study the material on their own and come back to take exams. In the U.S., we have class, labs, homework and open office hours with professors."

A man poses for a picture in front of Old St. Nicholas Church in Frankfurt Germany
During his study abroad experience, Layne Woodruff picked up German as a second language and created friendships and a network that will benefit his future career. (supplied photo)

Woodruff said getting out of his comfort zone was among the biggest benefits of studying abroad.

"My education abroad experience put me outside of my comfort zone, forced me to learn something new and now I am fluent in two languages," Woodruff said. "Knowing more than one language makes me more marketable and I would recommend all students to study abroad and pick up a new language."

Upon returning from his study abroad experience, Woodruff said he gained a greater appreciation for the support BGSU offers students.  

"At BGSU, students receive constant feedback and support from faculty and staff," he said. "As a student, I can go to the Kuhlin Hub for Career Design and Connections to connect with industry leaders, work on mock interviews, update my resume and get headshots taken. Students can also take advantage of Life Design and receive help shaping their college and career journey with the help of professionals. There is always someone offering to help you succeed."
 
Woodruff's trip to Salzburg provided him with lasting memories and meaningful connections that could benefit his future career.
 
"During my trip to Salzburg where more than 30% of the students were exchange students from all around the world, I met and worked with people from all over," Woodruff said. "It's possible that in my career journey, I will apply for a job where one of them is working or has connections of their own. Studying abroad opened the door for professional networking and created life-long friendships."

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Media Contact | Michael Bratton | mbratto@bgsu.edu | 419-372-6349

Updated: 02/19/2025 02:44PM