(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.
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.
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
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
“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
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 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.
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
Only in dreams has the continent of Africa been a possibility for me to visit and learn in. The study abroad program with St. Petersburg College in Namibia became an opportunity for those dreams to become a reality. As a student and as a person, this has been a life-changing event for me. It also was my first time leaving my country, something thrilling on its own merits.
Arrival on the 7th of December from our various destinations was uneventful, and once settled we were given an opportunity to rest. Our orientation would be the following morning with Heidi after breakfast at the Lapa. At orientation we were given an idea of what activities would be available to us, where and when to meet, and that we would be on various teams. Our day on the 8th was relatively open and participation in the baboon enrichment walk was our introduction to the activities. Activities could include meal preparation for the various species present, enclosure cleaning, project work (waterhole digging/ building, putting up fencing, etc.), feeding both the small and large animals (small animal feeding and carnivore feeding). Going forward, we had opportunities to be a part of the anti-poaching unit (APU); learning about poaching and the many reasons behind it, work with the dogs, carnivore feeding, small animal feeding, enclosure care, and enrichment opportunities for cheetah, baboon, and caracal. We were also given the opportunity to learn about in-field tranquilization and transport of wildlife from the lead veterinarian, Dr. Maaike De Schepper.
N/a’an ku sê is a San word that means “God will protect us”. The sanctuary houses several different animal species that have, in one way or another, been a part of human – animal conflict or taken into the pet trade within the country of Namibia. Some of these animals are orphans, particularly the baboons. In many places they are considered pests, and are often shot, only to find there is a baby left behind. Other animals were bought from street vendors as cute babies to be pets, often by individuals that did not understand the social structure of the animals (meerkats), that they can and do bite, and that they can be destructive. Some of these animals have become habituated to people, and this can create a potential for conflict. Apollo, one of the elephants on the Zannier Reserve was in exactly this situation when he made a golf course in Swakopmund his home. N/a’an ku sê was asked to remove him for his safety and that of the people and now he walks the 18,533 acres of the reserve with other elephants.
Others have found prey on farms to be much easier to catch and were captured for their safety and relocated to the sanctuary.
My favorite activities were enrichment for the larger cats and going into the bush with the APU. There is nothing like walking with cheetahs or coming up on a fresh lion kill site and seeing these animals in their natural habitat.
With respect to in-country interactions with the people and animals on the sanctuary and various reserve areas, I found everyone to be highly knowledgeable and willing to share information and answer questions. Dr. Maaike, the lead veterinarian, was very approachable and very willing to share her knowledge. I felt very welcome and comfortable here.
If the opportunity comes up, I recommend the study abroad program. It will change your life.
Pamela, SPC Namibia Study Abroad Program 2023 Participant
The St. Petersburg College study abroad trip has been one of the most impactful experiences of my life! Between interacting with and caring for animals at the sanctuary, breathtaking landscapes and sunsets, unforgettable views of wildlife, and making memories and new friendships, this trip has broadened my horizons and given me a new perspective of the world as I knew it.
For me, the journey began before arriving in Namibia. I had been apprehensive about traveling this far and for this long with a group of strangers! We were able to start a group communication before leaving, getting to know each other, and helping each other navigate through questions and concerns. By the time we had met up at the airport and spent a long layover together, we were far from strangers! It was an amazing group of ladies, all with a passion for caring for animals, but each with their own unique background and personality.
We arrived in Windhoek on the morning of Thursday, December 7th. The thirty hours of traveling had me exhausted, but that didn’t last long! As soon as we left the airport and started driving to N/a’ankuse, I was wide awake in awe of the mountainous views and abundant wildlife that could be seen from the transport van. Upon arriving at the sanctuary, we were greeted by the staff and sent to settle into our accommodations, which had been upgraded to a villa instead of tents. This was amazing as it provided a common space for us to gather and connect as a group. We were then shown around the property, gathered our uniforms, and after dinner, relaxed by the pool at our villa watching the wild zebras run in the sunset in front of the mountains.
Over the next two weeks, we rotated through a variety of activities. Animals residing in the sanctuary were those that were unable to be released due to injury, disease, human conflict, or other reasons they would be unable to fend for themselves. The activities in the sanctuary involved forms of enrichment, care, and maintenance for the animals. These activities included animal walks (baboon, cheetah, and caracal), cheetah experience, animal feeding and food preparation, data entry, enclosure cleaning, and project work. Of these, the animal walks were my favorite. It was an unforgettable experience to be able to interact with these amazing creatures up close. The staff at N/a’ankuse had raised these animals and shared their stories while educating us on the challenges the different species face. One could see how much the caretakers loved these animals and it was remarkable the efforts they put in to ensure they were living their best lives at the sanctuary. Some of the other tasks, such as project work where we dug a watering hole or animal enclosure cleaning, were not as enjoyable but provided a realization as to just how much work goes into the care of captive wildlife.
We also participated in tasks in the reserve, where the wild, uncaged animals were. The tasks in the reserve consisted of research tracking the elephants, anti-poaching canine training and foot patrol, and Rhino Rangers, where we camped in the reserve overnight tracking and recording the animals. The Rhino Rangers activity was my favorite of all the tasks! While we were not able to have the up-close encounters that we did with some of the animals in the sanctuary, it was magical to see them in their natural habitats. We were able to find eleven of the fifteen rhinos, all five lions, and the three elephants on multiple occasions, as well as numerous other species. The reserve was so full of life; everywhere I turned there were more creatures to see! Words, photographs, and even videos cannot even begin to describe what it is like. The rangers were excellent guides, showing us all the species on the reserve and educating us on them. Through this experience, we not only were able to see unbelievable once-in-a-lifetime views of wildlife, but we also learned about poaching and the efforts used by the N/a’ankuse and other organizations to protect these species.
On the afternoon of Thursday, December 21st it was time to say goodbye and head home. Heading into this trip, I didn’t know what to expect. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined the experiences I would have! I learned so much more than just the care of captive wildlife. I learned about the challenges both these animals and the San people face and not only about the local culture, but of the cultures of other volunteers I met at N/a’ankuse. Although in the broad scheme of things, I contributed very little, I feel pride knowing I could help this cause. It is wonderful to know there are people out there who are willing to dedicate their lives to preserving these species. I may have left Africa, but a piece of it is still with me, and I will forever be changed by this experience!
– Katie Fransen, SPC Namibia Program 2023 Participant
