Walking through the halls of the Zachry Engineering Education Complex, a TV graphic caught the eye of junior mechanical engineering student Isaac Cabello that read “Scotland Thermodynamics, Summer 2025.” This was his first encounter with Halliburton Engineering Global Programs, which sparked a journey that continues today.
Since moving to Texas in the second grade, Cabello knew about Texas A&M University. His neighbors were devoted Aggies, and he remembers classmates with Texas A&M-branded water bottles in elementary school. Years later, a growing love of STEM and engineering in high school paved the way for his acceptance into Texas A&M.
A Leap of Learning Across the Pond
When he started college, studying abroad wasn’t on his radar. That changed after seeing the graphic. Curious, he checked his degree plan and realized that taking solid mechanics in France would be a great fit. Encouraged by his sister, who studied abroad during her college years, Cabello applied to the program. Fast-forward to May, just hours after finishing his last final, he boarded a plane to France with his suitcase in tow.
“I used to think that studying abroad was only possible as a semester long program but learning that I could go on a shorter summer trip changed everything,” he said. “It was cool to immediately be on an adventure after my finals.”
During the trip, Cabello took classes at host university École Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers in Aix-en-Provence and worked alongside French students on engineering projects. This proved to be an incredible learning opportunity to see how different cultures and people work together to solve problems.
“These students had been working on their projects for a while, so it was a great experience learning from them and collaborating with them to finalize their project presentations,” he said. “The experience of working with a different culture has helped me approach teamwork differently. I am much more aware of people’s different work styles and how to accommodate them to get the job done.”
Outside of the classroom, Cabello used his free time to explore Aix-en-Provence and Paris, experience French college traditions and even go on an 8-hour hike up and down Mont Sainte-Victore. He went on guided cultural excursions with his cohort to Verdon Gorge and Versailles and a technical visit to CMA CGM, an international shipping and logistics company.
Bringing Global Home
Reflecting on his trip, he appreciates how it pushed him outside of his comfort zone. The sink-or-swim nature of being in a different country forced him to make connections with his classmates, French students and professors, and even a local when he needed directions back to his lodging.
“I’ve become much more confident in striking up a conversation with someone, which can turn into an opportunity for networking or even a friendship,” Cabello said. “That confidence continues to open doors for me.”
As a global ambassador for HEGP, he now uses his newfound skills by sharing his study abroad story with interested students and by helping new exchange students feel at home.
“It’s rewarding to be a friendly face for exchange students who were in the same position as me,” he said.
Ultimately, Cabello hopes he can help students overcome their skepticism and see the value in studying abroad.
“Whether you want to get some credit on a fun trip or develop professional experience and networking, HEGP offers something for everyone,” he said. “Every day was an adventure.”