“The internship in and fieldschool to Macedonia was not only a highlight of my studies at VIU, but also a life changing experience in my personal and professional development. My time in Macedonia allowed me to experience Anthropology in action, and made me realize that I want to pursue graduate studies in international development. I made lifelong friendships and memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I would like to thank Dr. Thiessen and her Macedonian colleagues for this amazing opportunity to learn about this beautiful country and its people. I would do it all over again!”

“My internship and commencing field school in Macedonia was my first exposure to the Western Balkans. This internship stimulated my research interests in Macedonia, leading to the production of a Master’s thesis focused on the interethnic relations in the country. Following which I continued graduate studies, in the form of a PhD, to expand my research to focus on religion and politics in Bosnia-Herzegovina. This internship was an eye opening and life changing experience that spearheaded my studies and career goals in the region. I am eternally grateful for the skills I’ve gained and the opportunities I was awarded because of this internship.”