All posts by Madeline Ishmael

The Magical and Peaceful Country of New Zealand

New Zealand
New Zealand 2023, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Study Abroad in New Zealand, Travel

I will remember New Zealand as an island coated in fresh green grass, glistening in the morning dew. The peaceful landscapes draw hills on the horizon, filled with sheep and cows, while the mountain tops are covered in crystal snow. It is blessed by a million water droplets forming rainbows in the sunlight across the land. In the Waitomo Caves the world falls asleep and turns into black night, revealing thousands of blue lights scattered on the ceiling, like twinkling stars on a dark night’s sky. The green hills of Hobbiton, home of the Hobbits in the movie series Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The Hobbiton featured a multitude of colorful neatly thoughtfully designed Hobbit holes, which gave us a prodigious insight into the magical world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-Earth.

New Zealand

Swimming in the outdoors natural warm waters of the Miranda Hot Springs was breathtaking. The springs heated solely from the geothermal activities below the earth’s surface and accompanied with a beautiful scenery in the background of the setting sun. The indigenous Maori culture keeps the country original and unique with their traditions, language, and memorials. We had the opportunity to learn from a local Maori about their culture and ancient practices. Besides attempting to speak the foreign language and singing native songs, we saw the incredible artwork of various Maori tribes. We studied their history from old mythology, discovery of New Zealand, British settlement, to wars and friendships.

New Zealand

Furthermore, we had the honor to visit a Marae, a sacred gathering place of a Maori community, where we were welcomed to the whanau (family). Our stay at the Marae was a significant and extraordinary experience I will never forget. We used every minute of our precious time in New Zealand to grow in knowledge and broaden our mind. I will be forever grateful to SPC’s Study Abroad and their effort for making this amazing trip to the other side of the world possible. Without the support of the school, the study abroad program, and the scholarships I would have not been able to go on an exciting and fascinating journey like this. Studying in New Zealand, witnessing the country’s beauty, and learning about the native Maori culture was an eye opening experience I will forever keep in my heart.

-Joanna Wilkin, New Zealand study abroad student, 2018

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-341-4731 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

Going Green in Germany! Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

germany
Germany, Global Citizen Program, Study Abroad, Travel

During my time in Germany, I noticed a lot of differences and similarities between how products are packaged and the ways people in Germany conserve and recycle. Berlin is a very diverse city with many opportunities available that allow one to live a sustainable lifestyle. Prior to my study abroad trip to Germany, I had been thinking about the effects of pollution and ways to reduce my production of waste. My job recently had a film screening of A Plastic Ocean, a documentary about the effects of plastic on marine life and our ecosystem. During this event, I took a pledge created by the Florida Microplastic Awareness Project. In this pledge, I promised to take steps towards reducing the amount of plastic waste. My pledge and awareness prompted me to take steps towards efforts to reduce waste by bringing reusable bags to the grocery store and refusing to use plastic straws at restaurants.

My interest in the environment reminds me of the “Green Tour” I took while in Berlin on my study abroad trip in March.  On this tour, we visited multiple “green” companies, which either made organic products or repurposed materials. The first stop on our tour was Belyzium Artisan Chocolate, a “bean to bar” company that grows and harvests its own cocoa beans, and then makes it into chocolate bars and other various treats such as tea and ice cream. The company provides a variety of flavors from kirsche to maya. The chocolate germanygermanywas a little too bitter for my taste but I enjoyed sampling thedifferentflavors.

The next stop we made was at Ecoalf, whose slogan is “Because there is no planet B”. The company makes clothes from garbage found in the ocean, which is made into thread. The thread makes winter coats and other clothing. The premise behind their work is cool and their clothing does not feel rough or uncomfortable. Ecoalf has an online store and two physical locations: Berlin and Madrid.   The third place we visited was Good Bank, which grows their own ingredients and has a “farm to table” premise. All of their vegetables were grown indoors in glass cases. Good Bank offers a variety of salads and vegan options. From salad to cheesecake, they have something for everyone. Our group was allowed to sample a variety of different salads and treats.

Afterwards, we visited a variety of other places! We visited a bike shop where we learned about bike culture in Berlin. It was a revelation to see how accommodating and conscious a city can be to the needs of its citizens. Cities in Florida, such as Largo and Seminole, appear to have a nonexistent bike culture. I live in Seminole where the bike lanes are in in the middle of busy roads and there are damaged, uneven sidewalks. However, in Berlin, bike lanes are on almost every sidewalk.

germany

During my trip, I gained an understanding of what eco-conscious really means and explored many companies that really care about how their products and how they are made. As I now strive to become a more “eco-conscious” consumer, I will keep in mind the methods and ways practiced in cities such as Berlin. I will admit, I was not entirely interested in “going green” or reducing my carbon footprint when I took this tour. Nevertheless, after learning about the dangerous effects of pollution and household waste, I have gained a deeper appreciation on the importance of becoming a more eco-conscious consumer.

-Briana Harper, Germany study abroad student: 2018

Click here to learn more about SPC study abroad programs and study abroad scholarship.

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. 

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-341-4731 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

 

It’s June! Join the Center for International Programs at Upcoming Events!

Events
Calendar, Events, India, Scholarships, Travel

You don’t have to get on a plane to experience diverse cultures. They are all around us! Don’t wait and join us in upcoming international opportunities at SPC. The SPC Center for International Programs offers a variety of free events you can attend to enhance your global view.

Here’s the list of upcoming international opportunities in June 2018!

International opportunities at SPC include… 

Event Date Time Campus/Location
Latinos United Club Meeting Weekly, Tues 12:30 pm – 1:40 pm Tarpon Springs Campus EP454
Center for International Programs (CIP) Lunch & Learns: INDIA June 7, 2018 12:30-1:30pm Clearwater Campus

ES 105
June 12, 2018 12:30-1:30pm St. Pete/Gibbs Campus

SA 114
Diego Figuerido: Brazilian Guitarist June 15, 2018 8:00pm The Palladium
CIP Lunch & Learn: INDIA June 19, 2018 12:30-1:30pm Tarpon Springs Campus

FA 132
New International Student Orientation (NISO) June 21, 2018 2:00-3:00pm EpiCenter

1-310

External International Opportunities include…

2018 Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival June 2, 2018 4:00-8:00pm University Area CDC
OPA! Palooza Greek Festival June 8-10, 2018 10:00am-5:00pm Tarpons Springs Sponge Docks

Upcoming Opportunities include…

Nelson Mandala International Day of Service July 18, 2018 Varies Volunteer with local cultural organizations

Read about SPC’s Multicultural Clubs Spring activities here… https://blog.spcollege.edu/international/multicultural-club/

DID YOU KNOW… $2,000 Scholarships are NOW available for the upcoming India 2018 program? Apply now!  

 

Events

Have any questions on SPC’s Study Abroad programs or Scholarships? Contact Madeline Ishmael by email at Ishmael.madeline@spcollege.edu or by phone at 727-712-5883

We Want to Hear from You!

If you have already planned an event with global content and want us to help get the word out, click here

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-341-4731 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

And don’t forget to follow us on social media! We do our best to keep you updated so  you don’t miss our events!

For more information about the Center for International Programs please visit: https://go.spcollege.edu/pages/international.aspx?id=2343

 

“Educational exchange can turn nations into people, contributing as no other form of communication can to the humanizing of international relations” – J. William Fulbright

Activities of the SPC Multicultural Club in Spring Semester 2018

Multicultural Club
Events, International Students, International Students Events, Success Stories

The members of Multicultural club at the Clearwater Campus had a great spring 2018. They engaged in a lot of different activities and they shared their cultures and experiences. This semester the club participated in the Chinese New Year, International Women’s leadership Forum, El Camino Forum and the Asia Munch & Learn, as well as many quad events that included St. Patrick’s Day and the Black History Month. One of the best Quad Events was the St. Patrick’s Quad Event. The theme was evident as March is when we celebrate the little leprechaun, rainbows, and treasures. This time SPC Clearwater Campus invited the Narrows which is an Environmental Education Center at George C. McGough Park. The Avian Veteran Alliance is a program dedicated to assist veterans by changing their environment outside of the military.  The Narrows brought special birds, such us eagles and owls; these are rescue animals that have a disability. They take care of them and keep them in a safe natural environment. One of the extracurricular activities the multicultural club attended was the Chinese New Year on February 17, at the University of South Florida Tampa. Club members stated that it was an interesting celebration because it was an original artistic concert.

Multicultural Club

Furthermore, the club had a lot of meetings. These meetings included games, cultural presentations and pizza! This semester the club dynamic changed a little bit. Some international students had the chance to make a brief presentation about the culture from their home country. The first presentation was held by Miranda Page, whose family is from India, and she brought a traditional plate to share; she also taught the members how to make it. It was a great learning experience! The second presentation was held by Maria Novoa, who is an international student from Colombia; she did a presentation about the traditions and Colombian cuisine. The end of the presentation finished with the sharing of delicious “arepas”. Another presentation was about the experience of Emelle Tunceren, who studied abroad in India. She shared fun facts about India, some pictures and advice to students who are planning to study abroad. In the last club meeting of the semester on May 3rd, club members organized a pot luck and shared delicious food. While Ronelia Bailey shared her study abroad experience in Spain.

Lastly, one of the best opportunities this semester has been the volunteer activity the Multicultural Club provided for their members. English Conversation Partners program helps non- English speakers improve their language skills by having casual conversations with Americans or other fluent-speakers of English who can correct grammar mistakes or mispronunciation. The most active student this semester is the Club President, Tyler Page. For more information about the English Conversation partners visit: https://blog.spcollege.edu/international/english-conversation-partners/

If you want to join an international club in St. Petersburg College remember all the benefits and reasons why joining a club is a good idea. First, it is an excellent way to meet new people and network with other students on campus. Second, you share activities that you love. Third, it gives the chance to learn new ideas and engage in different learning experiences. Also, international clubs gives you a global vision since you are learning and sharing new cultures. Finally, the best thing about joining a club is that you distract yourself from studying and thinking about homework and tests.

 

-Maria Novoa

If you want to be part of the Multicultural Club at the Clearwater Campus please contact:

Angela Cole, International Students, DSO . Cole.Angela@spcollege.edu | (727) 791-2632 | Clearwater

It’s May! Join CIP for Graduation, Awards, And So Much More!

Awards
Travel

You don’t have to get on a plane to experience diverse cultures. They are all around us! Don’t wait and join us in upcoming international opportunities at SPC and awards recognition! The SPC Center for International Programs offers a variety of free events you can attend to enhance your global view.

Here’s the list of upcoming international opportunities in May 2018! 

Event Date Time Campus/Location
Latinos United Club Meeting Weekly, Tues 12:30 pm – 1:40 pm Tarpon Springs Campus EP454
New International Student Orientation (NISO) May 3, 2018 2:15 pm – 3:00 pm EpiCenter Campus 1-310
New International Student Orientation (NISO) May 10, 2018 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Clearwater Campus

ES 203
External International Opportunities include…
African Fashions Pop  Up May 05, 2018 10:00am-6:00pm   The Hall On Franklin
Lea y Mira: Holocaust Survivors film May 10, 2018 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Florida Holocaust Museum
REMEMBER: SPC Graduation  is May 12, 2018, at 9 am in Tropicana Field

Center for International Programs congratulates

all student award winners and those graduating in May!

·         International Students graduating

James Kristensen-Meroli- Canada Sophia Brown- Jamaica
Margherita Tibaldo-Italy Jonas Nettelroth- Germany
Maria Novoa- Colombia Roger Osorio-Guatemala
Phong Truong- Vietnam Natalia Tarakanova- Russia
Huey Yu- Netherlands Antilles Margaret Moku-Olu- Nigeria

·         Global Citizen Program students graduating with Global Distinction

Kristy Foreman – USA Maria Novoa- Colombia
Nicholas Sielchan – USA Margherita Tibaldo-Italy

·         Issac & Lily Varon Scholarship Award for outstanding Hispanic students

Alejandro Mendoza Delgado- Venezuela Kin Ng Lugo- Venezuela
Cristian Jacome Mejia- Ecuador

·         Most Engaged International Student Award

Maria Novoa – Colombia-CL Campus Margherita Tibaldo –Italy– TS Campus
Lorena Hmelas – Croatia-SP/G Campus Fernanda Correa Blanco –Colombia– SE Campus

·         Most Engaged Study Abroad Student Award

Ronelia Bailey – Trinidad and Tobago
DID YOU KNOW… SPC is #6 in the USA for sending students abroad? Read more here

 Award Award Award

We Want to Hear from You!

If you have already planned an event with global content and want us to help get the word out, click here

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-341-4731 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

And don’t forget to follow us on social media! We do our best to keep you updated so  you don’t miss our events!

Center for International Programs Lunch & Learn: ASIA

Lunch & Learn
India, Study Abroad, Travel

On Thursday, April 19 and Tuesday, April 24, the SPC Center for International Programs hosted an amazing Lunch & Learn event, which focused on the culture of Asia. Some Asian inspired light snacks and drinks were offered to the students who attended the lunch & learn event. Miss Angela Cole, International Student Representative, presented at the Clearwater Campus and Miss Madeline Ishmael, International Programs Representative,  presented at the Tarpon Springs Campus. Each presented unique “fun facts” and cultural traditions about Asian countries: India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and China.

Below are some facts that were shared during the event:

  • Asia is the biggest continent in the world, and it includes 50 independent countries and occupies the eastern part of the single Eurasian landmass.
  • Russia is the largest of the Asian countries, which occupies about 30% of the total territory of the continent.
  • Maldives is the smallest of the independent states and it is an archipelago of islands famous for its beach resorts.
  • Asia covers an area of 44,579,000 square kilometers, about 30% of Earth’s total land area and 8.7% of the Earth’s total surface area.
  • Asia is notable for not its overall large size and population and its dense settlements.
  • The continent’s  4.5 billion people constitutes roughly 60% of the world’s population.

Did you know that you can travel to Japan or India with St. Petersburg College WHILE earning college credit? Please explore both opportunities below and as a reminder, scholarship opportunities will become available in July 2018!

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-341-4731 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

And don’t forget to follow us on social media! We do our best to keep you updated so  you don’t miss our events!

“Educational exchange can turn nations into people, contributing as no other form of communication can to the humanizing of international relations” – J. William Fulbright

Join us for a FREE Collaborative Concert with Students in Rwanda!

Tribute Concert
Travel

On Thursday, April 26, 2018, 7:00 p.m. at the Palladium of St. Petersburg College (SPC), the SPC Music Department will present a Tribute Concert to alum Lance Gaskill, and family’s, pioneering music education contributions in Kigali, Rwanda. The Tribute Concert will feature SPC’s Community Concert Band, Community Wind Symphony, members of the SPC Chorus, and young musicians from Safety Harbor Middle School.  Retired Eastman School of Music trombone professor, and former Principal trombonist of the National Symphony Orchestra, John Marcellus is a featured soloist.

SPC and Safety Harbor Middle School students spent the semester preparing and collaborating with communities in Africa.  Engagement included multiple Skype sessions with the Rwanda Rising musicians.  Mr. Gaskill shared his journey as a Pinellas County native and his calling to build a band and orchestra program in Kigali.  Rwandan low brass students were treated to a personalized coaching session with Dr. John Marcellus, and we hope to have a continued presence via social media and future projects.

The experience opened SPC students’ eyes to the depth of possibilities post-graduation.  Kyle Collins, SPC percussionist shared, “I’m impressed with what Mr. Gaskill was able to create and contribute to that community.  Having the Skype session with the Rwandan students displayed how music has an impact around the world, and how it really connects with everyone.”

Bo Garrard, SPC saxophonist, “Mr. Gaskill is the kind of person you’d want to do that job.  He has a plan and a drive, but does so in a selfless manner.”

SPC professor of music, Jeff Donovick, was ecstatic with the success of the interaction. “Lance is such a great spokesperson and facilitator.   Being able to bridge the connection between the Rwandan culture and ours through the technology is inspiring.  I was also very impressed with the Rwandan students.  Seeing their motivation for achievement is noteworthy, and it was motivating for me and our students.”

SPC vocalist, Hannah White, “Lance Gaskill showed us how we can use our music education and training in a completely new way.  Sometime we can be a bit selfish as we try to attain our goals.  Mr. Gaskill epitomizes being selfless and using your talents and abilities to help others.”

The concert will take place at 7:00 p.m. on April 26, 2018 at the Palladium of St. Petersburg College.  253 Fifth Ave N. St. Petersburg, FL 33701. First come first serve for seating.  Palladium capacity is 800.  Questions may be director to SPC director of bands, Professor Nathan Muehl.  muehl.nathan@spcollege.edu 727-341-4325

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-712-5883 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

Bonjour Canada! High School Study Abroad-January 2019

Canada
Canada High School

Begin 2019 in a winter wonderland!  Travel to ‘old France’ without crossing the ocean! This study abroad program to Canada is open to SPC early college, dual enrollment, early admission and collegiate high school students. The program will immerse students into the international culture, history and politics Of Montreal and Québec City.  Students will be able to earn bright futures volunteer hours via service learning activities within an international environment. Ready to participate or want to learn more?

Click here to visit the study abroad webpage for Canada.

Available Study Abroad Course to take in Canada: Students traveling to Canada will have the opportunity to enroll in the following courses:

Professor Kelly Rich:

  • IDH 2634H-Service Learning-1 credit

Professor Earl Fratus:

  • INR 2002H-International Relations-3 credits

Top 10 Reasons to Study Abroad in Canada:

  1. Maple Syrup: Canadians drizzle it over waffles, bacon, steak, chicken, eggs, salads, and pretty much anything else they can get their hands on
  2. Poutine: The high-calorie, artery-clogging dish is comprised of French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in brown gravy
  3. National Wonders: Niagara Falls, Quebec City, Toronto, Banff National Park and More!
  4. Outdoor recreation: Vancouver is one of the best places in the world to get your nature fix
  5. Diversity: Canada is one of the top 20 most diverse countries in the world
  6. Friendliness: Maybe it’s the water…or maybe Canadians are just that nice.
  7. Hockey: Men and women have dominated the last 4 Olympics winning gold!
  8. Hawaiian Pizza: Does fruit belong on pizza? YES!
  9. Bunny Hug: This is the name of a hooded sweatshirt-how cute!
  10. If that doesn’t entice you…Justin Bieber is from Canada…

Have any questions on SPC’s Canada Study Abroad program? Contact Madeline Ishmael by email at Ishmael.madeline@spcollege.edu or by phone at 727-712-5883

“Educational exchange can turn nations into people, contributing as no other form of communication can to the humanizing of international relations” – J. William Fulbright

SPC Center for International Programs Encourages Global Engagement

Global Engagement
Travel

The SPC Center for International Programs (CIP) believes it is never too early to think about College and global engagement!  The month of April presented CIP with two incredible opportunities to discuss the many options for global engagement at SPC. The first opportunity was during an International Folk Festival at John Hopkins Middle School in St. Petersburg and the second opportunity was at Clearwater Academy in Clearwater.

John Hopkins Middle School in St. Petersburg, FL was filled with music, food, dancing, and laughter as students participated in the International Folk Festival. Cultural booths lined the perimeter of the courtyard as the student’s energy and excitement filled the air. The Center for International Programs (CIP) was present to discuss one important message: it’s never too early to plan for college! CIP Director, Dr. Ramona Kirsch, along with staff, interacted with students using a fun facts “quiz.” Students learned about Australia, Italy, Spain, New Zealand, Costa Rica, and Greece. CIP inspired students by discussing the recent Italy HS trip and how they could join SPC in the future to embark on their own study abroad trip! Between traveling to different countries (booths) and stopping by to discuss a future with SPC, students joined on stage to practice various dances. The performances represented Africa, Hawaii and Cuba. UK Hip-Hop dancer, Samuel Chalmers, spent time with the students prior to the event teaching them hip-hop dancing fundamentals. Students floated in and out of the courtyard with plates of food symbolic of each represented culture. The importance of exposing students to cultural diversity and inviting them to dream about their future explorations was prominent in the International Folk Festival! A HUGE thank you to John Hopkins Middle School staff and faculty for allowing CIP to be a part of such a fun and exciting event! Please see below a short clip of the festival!Global Engagement

Clearwater Academy is an international school with a diverse student population from all around the world. Clearwater Academy has an incredible ESL program, which ensures every student who enrolls becomes an active and participating member of the student body. On Thursday, April 19th, the international school invited Center for International Programs director, Dr. Ramona Kirsch, to talk with 9th and 10th graders about the various opportunities available at SPC! This included talking with international students attending Clearwater Academy International about options for getting their AA degree at SPC! As always, the most important message for high school students is that it’s never too early to consider SPC and the opportunities for global engagement, especially study abroad! A special thank you to Clearwater Academy for the opportunity!

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-712-5883 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

SPC International Students Visit NASA Headquarters

NASA
Events, International Students, Travel

On April 12th of 2018 several international students had the opportunity to go to the Kennedy Space Center (NASA).  This NASA headquarters is in Cape Canaveral, approximately two and a half hours from Clearwater. “NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has long served as America’s spaceport, hosting all of the federal government’s manned spaceflights since the late 1960s” (Writer, 2018). The Kennedy Space Center is named after President John F. Kennedy, who declared in 1961 that the United States would send and bring an astronaut to the moon safely. The students had the occasion to be in the KSC from 11am until 3pm. St. Petersburg College provided the tickets and the transportation for free to the International Students. Students from the Epicenter, Gibbs and Clearwater Campus attended. It was an awesome opportunity for English as A Second Language students to practice their English and learn a little bit about United States history. One of the favorite things from students about this trip was that they got to meet other people from other campuses and make new friends.  The Center had a lot of fun and learning experiences; it was fun to watch the actual spaceships NASA used to go to the moon. Students had the opportunity to train like an astronaut, attend special events, go through different museums, and go to a tour of the Kennedy Space Center. Is incredible to witness how capable humans are. In addition,  students learned some fun facts about Cape Canaveral like finding alligators everywhere, and knowing that the beach that is in the center is empty, which is why it is the best place for sea turtles to put their eggs. Thank you to the Center for International Programs to make this trip possible for International Students.

-Maria Novoa Pinzon

If you want to learn more about the Kennedy Space Center, visit: https://www.space.com/17705-nasa-kennedy-space-center.html

If you want to visit the Kennedy Space Center, go to: https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info