How one summer in Zagreb became an adventure for Sébastien Guillotin

A new city, a new routine, and a long list of things to figure out. From navigating Zagreb streets to learning that grocery stores close on Sundays, Sébastien Guillotin’s summer at RIT Croatia became a collection of small challenges, unexpected discoveries, and moments that slowly turned a foreign place into home.

The lessons outside the classroom

A third-year New Media Interactive Development student at Rochester Institute of Technology chose to spend his summer at RIT Croatia while completing his Minor in Business Administration. "One of the biggest draws to RIT Croatia for me was the chance to study abroad for a long period of time doing something that would pair well with my major, giving me a stronger set of skills to enter the workforce and co-op market," Sébastien says.

One of the biggest surprises for him wasn't what happened during lectures; it was everything that happened in between. "It's been a world of difference, with a lot more to learn outside of classes," Sébastien explains. "There were so many additional challenges outside of schoolwork that RIT Croatia taught me to handle that I couldn't have really ever expected."

Learning how to find everything in Croatian grocery stores, adjusting to shops being closed on Sundays, and figuring out everyday life became part of the adventure. "I love a challenge, and RIT Croatia has been a ton of learning for me. I couldn't have asked for more." As he became more familiar with Zagreb, those early challenges turned into confidence. "It's been really fun to feel independent in another country, knowing the work I had to put in to create that ability of independence."

Academically, one course stood out above the rest. His finance class challenged him in a way he genuinely enjoyed. “I found that challenge to be exciting and engaging, and it certainly made me study hard and pay attention in class." He also appreciated one aspect of the classroom culture that quickly caught his attention: "One of the biggest surprises for me about Croatian student culture was how generous our professors have been, especially in giving us consistent breaks during lectures."

Saying yes to new experiences

Outside the classroom, Sébastien made the most of every opportunity. Whether it was trying new food, parasailing, renting a car with friends, or simply spending time with his landlord's cats, every experience became part of the story.

His message to Rochester students is simple:

"Studying abroad is hard in ways that may surprise you, because even the little things can build up, but in the end, you will be so much stronger from overcoming them, and you'll have a blast because you're in Croatia," he says. "You only study once. Choosing to study abroad is the best choice you can make, especially in Zagreb."