Published on Dec. 1, 2025

By Kampbell Hemeyer

Paul Anderson II is a second-year doctoral student in music education and choral conducting at Mizzou and has traveled “across the pond” twice through Mizzou Study Abroad. He has sung with Mizzou choirs since beginning his studies in 2022, and his experience performing internationally has played a key role in shaping his academic and professional journey. 

In 2023, he traveled to London, England with Mizzou’s Concert Chorale, invited by Vox Anima London, to perform in the I Dream A World: A Celebration of Music by Black American Composers concert.  
 
Most recently, Anderson toured Italy with The University Singers in May, performing in Venice, Assisi and Rome and visiting historical basilicas, museums and other iconic Italian destinations.  
 
“I’ve seen beautiful things happen when you take people out of the familiar,” Anderson said. “All they have left is themselves and what’s new. It’s incredible to watch students navigate the highs and lows of those experiences.” 
 
Anderson describes his time abroad as essential to his professional development and academic growth. Looking ahead, he hopes to provide others access to the same kinds of transformative opportunities in taking his own future choirs abroad. 
 
“We take in the world’s beauty through screens every day, but it’s completely different when you experience it firsthand,” he said. “If you have a chance to study abroad, take it—it’s not just eye-opening, it’s life-changing.” 
 
Make studying abroad part of your story. With summer and fall program deadlines approaching, now is the time to visit the Study Abroad website and explore upcoming opportunities.  
 
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to extend your academic experience beyond campus with Mizzou Study Abroad.