All posts by Frank Jurkovic

The Experience that Filled my Heart and Strengthened my Passion

Antigua, Study Abroad, Travel

As someone who loves to travel and explore new places, I knew the SPC dental hygiene study abroad trip was something I wanted to do. The experience was everything I expected and more. It was one of those opportunities that helps you grow, not only as a clinician, but also as a person.

We stayed at a resort where three students shared a room meant for two, so there was always someone sharing a bed or sleeping on a cot or air mattress. We did everything together, clinic, meals, transportation. Alone time? When you are on a trip for school, there is none. The sharing of space and constant togetherness really pushed a lot of us out of our comfort zone. The clinic was also very different from what we are used to at school. The chairs didn’t adjust, so I often had to stand while treating patients. The suction had to be held down the entire time, so patients helped by holding the button. All the fluids drained into a cup that had to be emptied several times per patient, and we had to remember to refill the water as we worked. It wasn’t the most comfortable or convenient setup. Working in those conditions challenged me both physically and mentally. Some of us even got sick on our trip, but none of these things seemed to matter when you showed up to the clinic and there were a line of patients already waiting. Despite everything, every single one of us are beyond grateful to have been able to be a part of this experience.

What stood out the most was the gratitude of the patients. Many of them had waited a long time for care, and you could see how much it meant to them. On the last day of clinic, I found myself crying because I knew we wouldn’t be coming back the next morning to help more people. I only wished we could have stayed the full two weeks.

This trip gave me a completely different perspective on dentistry and on life. It was a life-changing experience that filled my heart and strengthened my passion for dental hygiene. I will always be grateful for the memories, the patients, and the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful.

– Evelyn, SPC Antigua Dental Study Abroad Program, January 2026

My dental mission trip to Antigua was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived on the island, I met incredible people. Their warmth, gratitude, and resilience has left a lasting impression on me. As a student clinician, I was pushed past limits I didn’t even know existed, and I feel the experience has helped me grow personally and professionally. I was able to take what I’ve learned at SPC and apply those skills beyond the classroom. I went on the trip hoping to make a difference, but I quickly realized how much in return I was growing.

Serving others in such a meaningful way has reaffirmed my passion for dentistry. I would encourage any student who’s even slightly interested in applying to apply! You’ll learn so much about the world, others, and yourself on a study abroad mission trip. The relationships I’ve formed and the lessons I’ve learned will stay with me long after leaving Antigua. The chance to study abroad was more than just a single experience. It has marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to serving others.

– Deborah, SPC Antigua Dental Study Abroad Program, January 2026

SPC Student receives Gilman Scholarship to Study Abroad in Costa Rica

Costa Rica, Costa Rica (ASL) 2026, Costa Rica (Business), Costa Rica (Business) 2024, Costa Rica (Natural Sciences), Costa Rica (Spanish), Costa Rica (Vet Tech) 2025, Costa Rica - Education, Costa Rica - Spanish Language, Costa Rica 2024, News, Study Abroad, Success Stories

SPC student, Maysam, recently received a Gilman Scholarship and shared her experience abroad with the SPC International Programs office. This is what she had to say.

I studied abroad through St. Petersburg College, who gave me this fabulous chance, and as a Gilman scholar, with the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, which provides merit-based scholarships to outstanding American undergraduate students with high financial need, equipping them with the international experience, global networks, and foreign language skills essential to keep the United States safe, strong, and prosperous. It helped me not just financially but also by building a wide network of students across the nation. Moreover, they ensured I had international health insurance and provided me with an international emergency number, along with my accommodation address and the emergency numbers I had given them upon my arrival. Through these procedures, I felt safe and protected as I explored, learned, and enjoyed a new country on my own.

Costa Rica is one of the most wonderful countries I have ever visited. I stayed for 3 weeks; they were the best of 2025, as I ended 2025 and started 2026 there. It was an amazing experience. It is generally safe for women and students. It was more than I expected. I learned a new language in a fun way with native speakers, which helped me quickly improve my Spanish skills.

I enjoyed visiting the volcanoes Irazú and Poas. Irazú is recognized as the country’s highest, which I liked most; I felt the Creator’s greatness. I loved Costa Rica’s nature, including the waterfalls, coffee plantations, rainforests, and unique animals such as toucans, sloths, frogs, crocodiles, butterflies, monkeys, and more. San Jose, the capital, is vibrant, with its people and streets. It is very beautiful during Christmas, full of lights and vibes. It is crowded, full of life, and makes me feel full of energy. It has many museums that represent the country’s history. The restaurants are awesome, the food was perfect, and I like empanadas. In the Central Mercado, there are many stores selling souvenirs, food, and clothes, and a very small space filled with people who love tourists and welcome them all the time. Furthermore, it has many beautiful gardens such as Lankester Botanical Gardens. In addition, the cathedrals have distinctive designs. Besides, I did many activities, such as horseback riding through the trees and rivers, and zip-lining, which were very interesting.

Students can apply every year for the the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program (Gilman Program). It provides up to $5,000 in merit-based scholarships to outstanding American undergraduate students with high financial need to pursue credit-bearing academic studies and career-oriented internships abroad. 

SPC faculty member selected for Fulbright award

Featured, Global Perspectives on Health and Social Care, Intensive English Program, International Students, News

(Pictured above: Shelbey Rosengarten, top right, with students in Northern Ireland, Summer 2024)

Congratulations to Professor Shelbey Rosengarten, who was recently selected for a Fulbright Award!

Fulbright is one of the most prestigious programs worldwide and the U.S. government’s most highly competitive international exchange program. This program is led by the U.S. government in cooperation with over 160 countries and offers cultural and international education exchange opportunities.

Shelbey has been selected as a Fulbright Scholar for the Fall semester, 2025. She will be posted in Nitra, Slovakia, at Constantine the Philosopher University. She will focus on a comparison of writing instruction in the digital age that involves academic, argumentative, analytical, professional and reflective writing, as well as media literacy and creative thought. Students at the university are part of an English and American Studies department, so Shelbey is really looking forward to hearing what they do, given the challenges we have in common, and others that are so different.

Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided over 400,000 talented and accomplished students, scholars, teachers, artists and professionals with the opportunity to study, teach and conduct research abroad. Fulbrighters exchange ideas, build people-to-people connections, and work to address complex global challenges. Notable Fulbrighters include 62 Nobel Laureates, 93 Pulitzer Prize winners, 82 MacArthur Fellows, 44 heads of state or government, and thousands of leaders across the private, public and non-profit sectors.

In the U.S., the Institute of International Education implements the Fulbright U.S. Student and U.S. Scholar Programs on behalf of the U.S. Department of State. For more information about the Fulbright website.

Study Abroad England: Once in a Lifetime Experience!

England 2023, England 2025, News, Scholarships, Study Abroad

Hi, my name is Carmen. Today I would like to tell you what the experience of traveling to London with SPC’s Study abroad program has been like for me. First I would like to say that it was something I thought I could never do in my lifetime. I come from a family and background that think that it is not possible to study and/or travel after a certain age, in fact, the simple fact of being able to study is already an odyssey, imagine traveling, it is a luxury! This program took me visiting tourist places with a lot of history such as Stonehenge and many more, but it also taught me to interact with other people from different backgrounds. I made friends that accompanied me for the rest of my journey, both professional and personal.

I am very grateful to SPC and its Study abroad program for the opportunity they gave me to be part of this unique adventure and learning. Thank you for showing me that it is possible to study and travel, and for helping me gain first-hand experience with this trip. Of course, I would love to travel again with this program and continue to get information from other places in this world.

London – A living portfolio of how history and branding collide

England (Psychology), England 2023, England 2025, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

As a marketing student, my trip to London was basically walking through a live-action case study in legendary branding. Big Ben wasn’t just a clock—it was a masterclass in timeless design (pun absolutely intended). The Crown Jewels? Luxury branding at its royal finest—talk about exclusive content! The Tower of London gave major “true crime meets heritage storytelling” vibes, and the fact that people are still lining up to see where heads rolled? That’s elite audience retention. And let’s not forget Stonehenge—no WiFi, no hashtags, no ad budget… and still pulling global crowds for over 5,000 years. Now that’s brand loyalty.

None of this would’ve been possible without SPC and the incredible scholarship opportunity. They didn’t just help me take a trip—they gave me a front-row seat to some of the world’s most iconic marketing lessons disguised as tourist attractions. This journey brought textbooks to life and added new chapters to my learning in the most exciting way. From strategic storytelling to experiential engagement, London was a living portfolio of how history and branding collide—and I soaked up every brilliant second of it.

-Amina, SPC England Study Abroad Program, May 2025

Study Abroad England: Amazing Opportunity

England (Psychology), England 2023, England 2025, Featured, Scholarships, Study Abroad

Studying abroad in England was amazing. Until this trip, I had not traveled outside of the continent, and I had never been outside of Florida without my family. You do not want to miss out on this chance. You will meet amazing people, both inside and outside of classes. The experiences this program provides is nothing short of exceptional. Studying abroad is not just learning in class, it is learning and immersing yourself in a culture similar, yet different to your own. Traveling to England is a once in a life time type of experience. The memories you make will stick with you in the best of ways.

I decided to participate in the England study abroad for many reasons. The first being that I have always enjoyed theater, going so far that I am studying to be a high school theater teacher. England itself is immersed in theater, from the Broadway shows to experiencing plays the way Shakespeare himself intended, the theater arts are everywhere you look. Another reason that I picked this program was because I wanted to take both Ethics in Science and Technology, and Creative Writing. I was thankful to take both classes. Both professors were understanding and they made learning fun and immersive.

One of my favorite places I visited was Stonehenge, even with it being a mystery, the current thought behind it is amazing. It shows what people can do when they work together, from the women carving the stones to the men putting them where they need to be. It was a beautiful sight and one I will never forget.

I was incredibly thankful to have the experience of traveling to England. This experience not only helped me to learn, but it will mean that my students will have the opportunity to learn vicariously through me and my experience. I will be able to help advocate for my future students to step out of their comfort zones to try new things and travel new places.

Thank you SPC, Dr. Dave, Dr. Haber, and EF Tours. This wonderful experience would not have been possible without all of the amazing people involved. If you are interested in study abroad, please take the opportunity.

– Jessica, SPC England Study Abroad Program, May 2025

Moments in London: More Than Just a Trip

England 2023, England 2025, Study Abroad

“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford,” our tour guide, Simon, told us. I didn’t understand at first, after an excruciatingly long plane ride and heavy traffic, I wasn’t feeling as ecstatic as I would have hoped. But the moment I set foot and began to explore, I understood exactly what he meant. London is a city with excitement around every corner, and going around England was truly an unforgettable experience. From iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Stonehenge to theater performances and vibrant nights, there’s something here for everyone. While seeing it in person was incredible, the real adventure was in how different everything felt: left-side driving, an underground train system, and new terminology—lifts instead of elevators, toilet for bathroom, and petrol instead of gas. No matter how much I explored, I felt like I was only scratching the surface.

That said, my favorite part of the trip was exploring with my group and the time we spent together. Whether it was visiting local shops, famous streets, karaoke, or even the long walks, no matter how tiring it was, the memories we made together are what I’ll remember most.

I didn’t have time to see it all, but I think that’s the part of London that makes it so great. It’s a city that always has something to offer. The energy, the diversity, and the endless number of experiences of the city just leave you wanting more. If you’re looking for a place that offers history, culture, food, and excitement around every corner, London is where you’ll find it. If you’ve been thinking about it, I’d say it’s worth every moment. The best adventures happen when you just go for it.

-Gerardo, SPC England Study Abroad Program, May 2025

Study Abroad in Morocco – An Opportunity of a Lifetime

England 2023, England 2025, Study Abroad

Reflecting on my journey, I never imagined that studying abroad would be a possibility for me. As a child, the idea seemed unattainable, and it never crossed my mind as an option. However, during a summer class at SPC, there was a presentation on study abroad programs that piqued my interest. Although I initially dismissed it, the concept lingered in my thoughts, prompting me to explore it further. After conducting research on costs and scheduling, I discovered various scholarship opportunities that made the idea seem more feasible. One day, I felt a strong connection to a specific program, leading me to apply not only for the study abroad experience but also for a scholarship. With God’s grace, I received the scholarship and embarked on my first study abroad adventure, which transformed my perspective on possibilities. This experience motivated me to apply again for another program, and although I had initially planned to go to Italy this summer, I ended up in London instead. It was an incredible experience, reinforcing my belief that everything happens for a reason.

If financial concerns are holding you back from studying abroad, don’t let them dictate your decision. Money is a temporary obstacle that can be overcome, while the opportunity to experience a unique moment in time is fleeting and cannot be reclaimed. The moments you have now are unique and cannot be revisited, as time moves forward and never backward. I assure you that the experiences you gain will outweigh any previous regrets about financial investment that you may have had. Moreover, the pride that comes from navigating the application process and actually embarking on the journey is a rewarding feeling that you will cherish. Traveling abroad opens your eyes to the vast differences in cultures and perspectives, and doing so with a group can enhance the experience even further. I was fortunate to travel with a fantastic group of people and supportive faculty, which transformed the experience into a joyful adventure. It’s incredible to think that I started this journey with strangers, and now we share a bond filled with unforgettable memories.

My time in London was particularly special as I finally visited the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour, which is a dream I had held for years. Being there, surrounded by the magic of the franchise I’ve loved since childhood, was exhilarating, in fact I almost broke out in tears of joy. London itself was also breathtaking, and I hope to return someday. This incredible experience was made possible by the Lord, the support of my scholarship and the encouragement from those around me. I wouldn’t change a thing about my study abroad adventure in London because it was truly one of a kind, and I will forever be grateful for this unforgettable experience.

So if you’re here, still reading this, it probably means that you’re pondering the thought of embarking on a study abroad experience. And if you truly want my advice, I suggest that you do it! you will not regret it 🙂

– Larimar, SPC England Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC, the city of Tarpon Springs, and the Sister Cities makes an impact on students

Featured, Greece, Greece 2024, Greece Virtual Study Abroad, News, SPC Study Abroad Week, Travel

SPC Professor Basil Moutsatsos, led 9 students abroad in Greece for two weeks this summer. The program had been in the planning stages for years with the SPC Tarpon Spring Campus Provost, Dr. Rodrigo Davis, the city of Tarpon Springs, and the SPC International Programs Office. It highlighted the connection that is kept alive by the Sister Cities agreements, the City of Tarpon Springs holds with various cities/islands in Greece. Students toured some of the Sister Cities such as Kalymnos, Halki, and Symi. In addition, the Sister Cities organization and Tarpon Springs City Commission awarded $15,000 in scholarships for all the SPC students traveling.

They were honored guests for the Twinning Ceremony on the Island of Aegina, Greece They were also joined by Costa Vatikiotis, Mayor of Tarpon Springs and the Mayor of Aegina, Greece. View the ceremony here (SPC is recognized at the 27:00 minute mark).

They received a warm welcome in Kalymnos from the former mayor of Tarpon Springs, Chris Alahouzos, who is currently serving as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the island.

They walked up the Sacred Way, past the Treasuries, the Temple of Apollo, the Theater of Dionysus, and the Stadium where the Pythian Games were once held.

They visited amazing sites like the Sacred Monastery of Saint Archangel Michael the Panormitis, the medieval site of Chrysocheria Castle, and the Monastery at Agios Savva, one of the main monasteries on each of the islands in Greece.

Students were excited to share their experiences through our SPC blog when they return.

To learn more about the 2025 study abroad programs, visit  https://blog.spcollege.edu/international/study-abroad/.

Namibia – A New Adventure

Namibia 2023 (Vet Tech), Scholarships, Study Abroad

A deep growl reverberated through the brush. Golden eyes flashed under the harsh light of the morning sun. The huge male lion shook his thick, flowing, dark mane and lunged forward towards us. I’m sure he could feel the rapid beating of our hearts through the ground as we stood, frozen in awe and admiring the grand sight of him and his regal lioness previously lounging under the acacia trees waiting for the opportunity to hunt again.

 Any person can say they have been to a zoo and seen a lion before. I have too— many times. But to be up close to one in the authentic African bush is a whole different experience. Traveling to anywhere in Africa has always been on my bucket list and many times over the past few years I have tried to go but with no success due to different challenges and timing. During December of 2023, I finally got to fulfill this dream by traveling with SPC to Namibia and residing at the Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary for two weeks.

Stepping off the plane to my final destination, Windhoek— was definitely breathtaking. The idea of traveling across the globe to another country so different from my own and where I had always wanted to visit was crazy to think about in itself. Then it hit me blatantly in the face as my foot touched the ground. I was actually there.

Every day at Naankuse was a new adventure whether it was the same activity as a previous day or not. What made our trip extra special and different from the other volunteers there was getting a unique presentation from one of the veterinarians who worked at the sanctuary about the immobilization of all different species of African animals. I enjoyed this a lot because my main career goal is to become a veterinarian for wildlife. One of the most interesting facts I learned in this presentation is that there is a specific drug used for rhinos that even the tiniest scratch from a needle can put a human on death’s doorstep. It was very interesting to learn one protocol from another between all the animals. Another interesting fact that was shared with us was that just as our pets need e-collars after being spayed/neutered– after baboons are sterilized, the veterinary team will paint their nails and place random sutures on their limbs to distract these primates from messing with the actual surgical site so that it can heal properly.

Activities involved a variety of tasks. Some were definitely more interesting than others, but I could understand how all of these activities aided in the success of running the sanctuary so that the people and animals that lived there could thrive. Our group took part in animal husbandry and enrichment, learning about and experiencing being a part of the APU (anti-poaching unit), camping, project work, animal research and tracking, horseback riding,  and being up close and personal with some of the most majestic creatures.

My favorite activity was the cheetah walk. It was one of the first activities I got to do after arriving there. It was a very simple activity but absolutely on the list of most memorable moments. During the cheetah walk, our group walked along an enclosed gravel path with the sanctuary’s coalition of three cheetah brothers. They were very relaxed on their walk. You would think that being cheetahs they would be fast, but in this situation it was us waiting on them to catch up! We were closely accompanied by one of the animal handlers at the sanctuary in order for everyone to stay safe. Of course we couldn’t touch the cheetahs during this experience but I was still thrilled that I was able to walk just about side by side with not one, but three of these lanky cats.

            One might think that cleaning cages and feeding and watering animals is boring, and while it wasn’t the most exciting thing to do, I did enjoy it. It gave me a lot of time to appreciate the animals that lived there and observe their behaviors and ways of life. It made me happy to see that I could make a small difference in their day just by providing fresh snacks or enrichment for them, or to help keep the enclosure cozy and inviting.

            I also really enjoyed traipsing through the African bush with the APU team, as well as joining them on an overnight safari and camping outside. This is where I saw most of the wildlife for the first time. I didn’t expect to see so many creatures in such a small increment of time. The rangers were very knowledgeable and were able to identify tracks and droppings of one animal over another and explain these things to us.

The APU team also has a group of canines that they train daily to assist them on certain missions and tasks. It was almost amusing to see these dogs go from serious and well-disciplined in training to goofy, floppy dogs that wanted love and attention as soon as they had been released. We were able to assist in basic assistance and observe the dogs tracking down an assortment of objects or attacking a potential poacher if faced with one.

            During our stay, we were able to visit the local mall and craft market. I found that most of the residents of Namibia were very nice and welcoming. They were just as curious as we were about our way of life in the United States as we were about their life in Namibia. There were so many beautiful creations at the craft market, and the aesthetic of the mall seemed very much like the malls back at home except for a few minor differences.

            Returning home was a bittersweet feeling. I was glad to be back for the holidays, and to see my family, friends, and my beloved cats and dogs. However, I think I left a piece of my heart back in the African plains. It was my first time in Africa and abroad, but certainly won’t be the last. This trip was enlightening for me and ensured me that I still am heading in the right direction with who I want to become and for that, it will always be one of the most influential chapters of my life.

-Madeline, SPC Namibia Study Abroad Program 2023 Participant