Looking Back

Prior to my adventures abroad, friends, family, and co-workers unanimously recognized the importance of my opportunity to study and work in a new and interesting place. It was not until recently, however, that I had the chance to look back on my research opportunity and consider how it has impacted my life.

First, I worked with and learned from some of the brightest minds in computer science at one of the most prestigious schools in the world. Next, I represented (hopefully well) Drexel University and particularly the Department of Computer Science - which could potentially lead to future exchanges with the University of Edinburgh. Drexel and UoE offer complementary classes and have infrastructures to support distance learning, making them prime candidates for to share online curriculum.

Another factor: UoE has a very interesting take on interdisciplinary work - they put all their research labs in the same building and have mixers/presentations/etc. to promote the sharing of information between disciplines. In my opinion, this is brilliant! Many times, the problems we experience in research have been solved in other research areas - simply with different terminology. Putting researchers in close proximity and promoting interaction facilitates the sharing of ideas - which tend to greatly influence the direction of research.

Finally, I was recently asked what advice I would give to someone with the opportunity to research abroad. Here was my response:

1. Travel - it's a lot cheaper to go to abroad when you're already there.
2. Interact - avoid the overwhelming urge to hide in your flat at night or sit in the corner cubicle at work. So many things are new and different. Ask questions, make friends, and be open to new experiences.
3. Stay focused - don't forget the purpose of the trip: in my case, research. Don't neglect your goals for #1 and #2 above. If you are lucky enough to learn from some of the greatest minds in the world, never pass that up.
4. Redefine yourself - studying/working abroad is more than just a chance to go to work in a nicer building. People expect you to be different when you return - more worldly, mature, etc. Take that opportunity to redefine the way people think of you.

I truly hope that the information in this blog helps someone who has a similar opportunity in the future. Anyone interested to see my current work should visit my website:

http://www.cs.drexel.edu/~kfu22