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Alum Still Inspired by Study Abroad One Year Later
Ashley Bruehl
Department: History & Political Science
Major: Global Studies
Class: 2012
This time last year, Ashley Bruehl ’12 was spending her final semester as an Otterbein student studying abroad in Ghana. Today, she is still inspired by her experience.

“My experience in Ghana completely changed my outlook on life,” Ashley said. “Not only have I befriended people from all over the world, but I have also taken on new perspectives from these cultures. I have adopted the Ghanaian traits of slowing down in life and always making time to talk to people.”

While currently working at the Westerville Public Library, Ashley is actively pursuing her goals to work for a non-profit agency, teach and travel.

“Right now, I am applying for several jobs in Denver, all relating to the different multi-disciplinary aspects of my degree, Global Studies. I am so excited to put my passion and knowledge into action, and hopefully make a difference in someone’s life,” she said.

After moving to Denver, Ashley also plans to enroll in graduate school, and eventually pursue her doctorate to become a professor.

“My experience at the University of Ghana has inspired me to live life to the fullest and to never, ever tell myself that something is impossible,” she said. “It has also inspired me to pass on my knowledge of Ghana, studying abroad and experiencing the world to others.”

Bruehl has chronicled her study abroad experience – from designing her own program with the help of Otterbein’s Center for International Education and Global Engagement and Cultural Envoy Scholarship to staying the night in a tree house in a forest – on her blog: ashleybruehl.wordpress.com.

“Fulfilling my life dream of traveling to West Africa – and doing it all on my own – has given me such passion, independence and confidence,” Ashley said. “My dreams have now grown to seeing as much of the world as possible.”

So what’s next on her list of travel destinations? Ashley hopes to be able to visit India and Southeast Asia soon.

Click here to learn more about study abroad opportunities through Otterbein.