Vanessa Sarmiento (Preferred Name: Nessa)
Vanessa Sarmiento (Preferred Name: Nessa) (she/they) - Stanford in New York
Major: CSRE
Minor: Earth Systems
College year while abroad: Spring 2025
About the photo: A visit to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden.
Contact
Email: vanedln@stanford.edu or click here to schedule an appointment.
Q&As
Why did you choose to study in New York?
I chose to study in NYC because I had a huge interest in the art scene in the city and I knew that I would be able to explore that by coming to New York. Despite NYC being in the U.S, I was still able to explore so much of the world due to the city being so rich in culture. I had the privilege of meeting people from diverse backgrounds and converse with them. NYC is its own world and I learned a lot about myself and the world by being there.
How did studying away support your academic growth?
Studying away served as a reminder of how much of the world I am missing and pushed me to take initiative when it comes to my goals. People in NYC move at their own pace, and that comforted me. There is this sense of acceptance that everyone is navigating different paths; therefore, there is no need to feel bad about being at different stages in life. This was a reminder that I needed, especially as I am coming into my junior year. I have a lot of concerns about my future, but I have so much time to figure things out at my own pace.
What did you learn about yourself during your study away experience, especially through any challenges or major cultural adjustments?
It was an exhilarating experience being in a city so populated but I realized that this is an environment that I could flourish in. I appreciate the hustle culture so much and it drove me to have confidence in myself. Initially, I was intimidated by the fast pace, but I discovered I thrive when surrounded by ambition and energy. The biggest challenge was feeling like just another face in the crowd, which pushed me to be more proactive in making connections. This experience revealed an inner resilience I didn't know I had and fundamentally changed how I approach challenges and opportunities.
Briefly describe a typical day and your favorite part of daily life in your program location.
I start my day by getting ready for my internship. I'm not a breakfast person, so I usually make a matcha latte to bring with me to work. I mostly worked around the Koreatown area and Queens, so I spent a lot of time on the subway; thus, I would bring a book with me. After work, I would have class (only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) and would either head straight to the dorm or pick up dinner from TenIchi Mart, where they sell discounted hot food at 8:00 PM. The lines are pretty long, so I recommend lining up early. Outside of work and class, I would meet up with friends outside the program. My favorite part of my daily life was walking down the Brooklyn Promenade.
If applicable, how did participating in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project help you grow professionally? What specific skills did you gain?
I worked with an art organization, and that was my first time working in that field. I learned how well-suited I am to work as a project management intern. Through this experience, I developed strong organizational and communication skills by working closely with my managers and local artists. I gained hands-on experience with project timelines, and event planning. Working in the arts sector also taught me to be more creative in problem-solving and adaptable when plans changed unexpectedly. This internship confirmed my interest in project management and showed me that I thrive in collaborative, creative environments.
What was the most essential item you took with you on the program?
A portable fan.
What advice would you give students who are considering studying away?
I would advise students to plan ahead because it is a quarter-long commitment and to ask themselves what they hope to take away from this experience. I wanted to go to NYC because I've always felt like the city was calling to me; if there is a specific location you feel like you would be able to thrive in, trust that feeling. Your study abroad/away experience doesn't have to just be about academics! What is so great about the BOSP programs is they allow you to be able to explore academic, professional, and personal interests! Allow yourself the opportunity to enter a world different from your own; you will learn so much about yourself through this experience.