When I signed up for this program I didn’t know what to expect, as I’d never been out of the country. Needless to say with each passing day I was astounded and impressed by the beauties, culture, and differences between France and the United States. The first thing I noticed when we got to Pairs was how vastly different the architecture was of the city. All the buildings towered over you with almost every style of architecture being found throughout the city, from massive Gothic cathedrals to elegant Renaissance palaces. It was crazy seeing places that I saw images of in my world history class, but being there in person!
The next thing I noticed was how lovely the food was. On almost every street there was a small bakery or “Boulangerie” with home-baked, fresh, delicious pastries. All the baguettes and croissants were flakey and delicious, and paired well with the creamy higher quality butter in France. It taught me how much more fresh food and local businesses are valued in France, unlike America where fast-food chains run rampant in every suburban and urban area. The next few things that I noticed was that when crossing from city to city there were many nuclear power plants, it’s estimated that around 70% of their energy comes from nuclear sources.
Additionally, all of the grocery stores we visited did not have any plastic bags, and all the restaurants used either cardboard or bamboo for straws. All leading me to conclude that France is a lot more ecologically friendly and sustainable in terms of cleaner energy. Finally, I noticed that French culture is a lot more relaxed and less be productive and get stuff done compared to American culture. With every meal it expected that you ask for the check because it is custom to sit and talk for long periods of time, It is common to get a month of vacation annually compared to an average of eleven days in the United States, sometimes workers in France are even given two hours for lunch. I’ve learned so much from this trip and can’t wait to go on more adventures to explore the rest of the world. It has allowed me to view my own and other cultures more objectively by comparison. Like Saint-Augustine puts it “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Benjamin, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
Going on the study abroad trip to France was a once in a life time experience. While traveling with friends and professors I was able to see a whole new part of the world that is rich in history and architecture. When going on a trip like this it is so important to keep your mind open to new friends and new experiences. I know when looking at going on a trip like this it can be very scary if you only know a few people, but if you go in wanting to have conversations with everyone and wanting to make friends with everyone you should not have any problems while on the trip. I would also highly recommend future travelers to spend their money on new foods as there are so many new flavors to try while abroad. The best food I tried was duck while the best dessert I had on the trip was a caramel gelato macaroon.
While in France we were able to learn and see so much history, in Paris and also in smaller little towns. I think my favorite little town was Tours, as it had the perfect balance of little town feeling while also having a lot of people to make it feel like a little bit of a bigger town. It also had some historical buildings and some newer mixed in buildings. There was also a very nice little bakery with all sorts of breads and desserts. I was so surprised that I was able to get a quiche and a water for less than three American dollars! (This was also the most delicious quiche I have ever had) Another very historical spot we visited was Normandy. It was a life changing experience to see in person where the battles took place and to see the memorial and cemetery where all those who fought are remembered.
I would highly encourage anyone thinking about going on future study abroad trips to do it. It will definitely be one of my top high school memories! – Kate, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
For my study abroad experience I was on the EF Tour Paris & the Chateaux. For this trip we went to Paris, where we spent two days doing a boat tour where we saw the Louvre and Eiffel Tower as well as a bus tour passing various points of interest through the city. The churches cannot be forgotten either. After leaving Paris, we went to Versailles where we walked both inside and the gardens. The sheer size and grandeur of the location is something that can be felt from the moment of arrival. Walking through it is hard to believe that it was built as a Kings place to live.
Lorie Valley included a tour of a winery as well as the countryside. The large casks and seeing the process from that perspective made it all come to life in a way we don’t see in Florida. After Lorie Valley, we traveled to Mont St. Michel, an amazing work of architecture and stained glass. Knowing that it was all built before the advent of heavy equipment makes locations like this all the more awe inspiring.Normandy was my personal favorite as I have an affinity for history and seeing the beaches was the highlight of the trip for me. This is such an important part of history and to see where so many fought and died is something that must be respected.
After Normandy we returned to Paris and were able to have a couple of hours in the Louvre. While there was not time to wait in line to see things like the Mona Lisa, having a good camera let me get a picture as I went through. Architecture is a passion of mine and we were able to see so much in the time we were there. Buildings and structures meticulously maintained through the centuries were seen in Paris as well as in the smaller towns we visited. Everywhere you look in France the history shines through. The blue skies and vivid green grass along with stunning art all combine to leave one able to stand in one place for hours just soaking up the atmosphere. – SPC Student, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
This spring break of 2023, I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad with SPC in France. I loved every part of it and made lifetime memories. The staff was amazing, as they were very organized, helped us around, and were very kind. They were attentive when asking questions and responded to emails quickly. The students were all very nice, and everyone got along. I think everything was perfect. Everything we did was planned out and was accurate, they said in the schedule, so there weren’t any surprise changes. I felt no stress during the trip because the staff ensured everything was going okay. I felt like they gave us enough free time so we could explore but also not too much to where we could get bored. I liked how everything was planned out so we could see all the main attractions of France.
The tour guides were all excellent, helpful, knowledgeable, and nice. We were mainly in Paris on the trip but also visited other small towns in France. I loved seeing all the cathedrals, castles, and museums. My favorite part was going to the Louvre Museum. I loved seeing all different cultures presented in forms of art. The weather was one of my favorite parts. The weather was on the colder side but as cold as I would’ve thought. It felt refreshing to be in. The food in France was delicious as everything felt less processed and more enjoyable. Everyone in France was kind and understanding, even with the langue barrier.
Overall, I am forever grateful to SPC that I had this wonderful opportunity to study abroad with such fantastic staff and students. I learned so much about Europe and its culture and want to learn more about it and travel back. Traveling to France helped me understand how big our world is and how different places can be from ours. After the trip, I can’t help but think of all the places I want to visit next. I would definitely recommend traveling with SPC’s program if you are interested in traveling and have no experience. – Lydia, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
After my trip with EF to France, it is safe to say the I have completely changed as a person. This trip has completely flipped my worldview and I could not be more grateful to go on this trip. I have not previously left the country before this trip, and I am so glad I chose to do this before I travelled on my own. The trip felt very organized, and I never felt lost or unsafe. My favorite place on this trip was Paris. The people dressed very nicely, and they were polite and accommodating even though I do not speak any French. I hope that I can move to Paris one day or at least study abroad again in later years. I love art and history and Paris is a city that is very rich in that.
Next, I really loved visiting Versailles. Versailles’ gardens were breathtaking, and the weather was very nice when we visited (before it started to rain) and I felt very connected with the beautiful nature of the area. The inside was probably one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen, and as I walked through each room, it seemed like it just kept getting better. The smaller areas that we went to, such as Tours and Saint-Malo, were very cute and charming. The streets were lined with delicious food options and small shops, which was a very exciting sight. It felt a bit more laid back than the more crowded areas and was a nice relief in between busier days. Another aspect of the trip that really stood out to me was all the amazing French cuisine we got to try. I ate plenty of Nutella crepes and croissants, but my favorite thing I got to try was French coffee at a café. This is unusual because I never really cared for coffee, but I felt obligated to try it at least once, and I can say that now I do like some coffee. It was so good, and it made me more eager to try even more new things throughout the trip. Overall, this trip to France is one of the best experiences I have had, and I am so grateful that it all happened. – Lucy, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
While only being in England for a week, it felt as though I was there for a lifetime, and I wish I could spend another lifetime there. I went into this program knowing next to nothing about the cities we would be exploring and staying at and I left with an incredible amount of knowledge and gratitude for these places.
Every city we visited was different from the previous, each had their own characteristics and charm that set them apart. Each place had their own unique landmarks like the Tate in Liverpool, to University College in Oxford, to the home of Shakespeare in Stratford-Upon-Avon.
My favorite city, was Liverpool, which happened to be the first city we went to. The combination of being in England finally after waiting close to a year, to the start of some wonderful friendships, to being in a smaller town and seeing what was all there. Taking the tour to see the Beatles landmarks such as Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, and the Philharmonic was definitely my favorite part of Liverpool. Never would I have imagined to see such musical landmarks.
Next, traveling to Birmingham visiting the Bullring & Grand Central, one of the biggest malls in the entire Untied Kingdom. While in Birmingham, we were able to take a day trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of famous English playwright William Shakespeare. To not only see the hometown, but the home and burial of one of, if not, the most famous author of all time is beyond belief.
Oxford was a great city, seeing the college campuses and the collection of old churches. Walking around to the back of the university and seeing the greenery reminded me of the countryside of England that I always picture in my mind.
Going to our last city, London, the cultural Renaissance of the country. Seeing so much history here, which include the London Tower, the British Museum, Abbey Road, or even the underground system (“The Tube”). The collection of museums, theaters and parks all within a close distance to each other.
Visiting England was such a wonderful experience and one that I will never forget. I hope one day to travel back there, along with other countries around the world. I want to thank Professor Tunceren and Professor Monroe for being such great professors to have with us on our trip. I want to thank everyone at SPC and at EF for making this tour possible for every one of us. – Jack, SPC England Study Abroad Program, March 2023
All I can say is WOW! Studying abroad in England was such an incredible, life-changing experience and I’m so grateful for the opportunity. Don’t wait for the opportunity to Study Abroad if you’re someone who wants an adventure, and don’t forget to use the scholarships too. I can say that I felt like I was living my best life while I was over there. I found that my favorite city was London because it was so huge, and I loved riding the London Eye and overlooking the vast city, but that wasn’t the best part of the trip. We travel to six cities in a week! Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Oxford, Stratford, and London. We traveled to Penny Lane, Shakespeare home, Buckingham Palace and so many other places. We experienced so much of the culture and history and ate lunch at several food markets and pubs like the Philharmonic and even saw the Phantom of the Opera at the Majesty Theater. I was amazed the entire trip and learned a lot and have such good memories of all the places we visited, and I will never forget the friends that I made on this trip because we quickly bonded and had such a fun time. – Benjamin, SPC England Study Abroad Program, March 2023
My experience studying abroad with SPC was eye opening as to what a new country and a new culture looks like. It was made easier that it was not a new language, however, sometimes it felt as though it was with their accents and different inflections. I learned about each city thoroughly to the point where now I feel as though I could go back and know exactly where to go. I was able to make friends with the people travelling with me as well as new friends from our travelling destinations. I also learned that other countries pride themselves on the important people that have come from their towns. Being able to tour cities and museums to their utmost potential gave me new eyes on other peoples day to day lives. My trip to the United Kingdom has convinced me to go back one day, maybe study a little longer. Because the tours and the places I visited helped the UK feel like home rather than a vacation and I have to go back. – Annalise, SPC England Study Abroad Program, March 2023
Yes, you can afford this trip and it’s worth every penny! There are also funds to assist with the program cost. The school and faculty strongly endorse it. The programs are intellectually challenging, will meet your academic goals and it is life changing! Having the opportunity to study abroad is about experiencing the folkways and gaining a global perspective. The one thing making the trip worthwhile are the people you meet and their culture. The trip was beautiful with memories that I will carry the rest of my life. Although taking classes to continue working towards your goal, traveling and seeing it firsthand, puts you in the middle of a new environment. The travel abroad gave me the opportunity to experience something unique, and to understand how we are different yet the same in so many ways.
While group singing Beatles songs on our private coach we started out in Liverpool. I was able to learn about the rich, history, and culture of this famous city, and see its iconic landmarks. Liverpool is a city with a tough industrial heritage that gives a warm welcome to tourists from all over the world. Did you ever wondered where the first overhead railway, football nets, and scrabble came from? Liverpool is the place. Known worldwide as the home of the musical group the Beatles. We visited the iconic landmarks like The Penny Lane, Forthlin Road, the Strawberry Fields and the Beatles museum. It was nice to have a beverage at the place called the Cavern where the Beatles performed over 250 times and to stop in for dinner at John Lennon ‘s favorite waterhole, The Philharmonic. Next, visiting Oxford University and Cambridge will always be a good memory. Oxford is ranked as the number one college in the world. Each year more than 25,000 students compete for 3000 spots including our former President Bill Clinton, who received a Rhodes Scholarship to attend!
The highlight of the trip for me is visiting William Shakespeare’s home in Stratford-upon-Avon, which brought the Middle Ages to life. What a gifted man! Over 150 sonnets. While visiting his grave, it was interesting to read what he had written on his tombstone. “Good friend, for Jesus sake for bear, the dig the Dustin clothes, here, blessed, be the man that spares these stones, and cursed be here that moves my bones”. I think he wanted his remains to remain in the Cathedral. It was a great experience to get a feeling for the man behind the scripts and discover the world’s most famous playwright’s birthplace, school, retirement home and grave. So much knowledge that I don’t think I would ever soak into me like this trip has accomplished. Last but not least a visit to London with it’s vast history. London is the capital and the largest city of England and the United Kingdom. It is a diverse and multicultural city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Some of its most famous landmarks include Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and Big Ben. It is also a major financial and business center, with many international companies having their headquarters there. It is a great city for tourism, with plenty of museums, art, galleries, and parks to visit. It is also known for its food and nightlife, which have something for everyone. Overall, London is a city that is well worth visiting, with a lot to offer.
I traveled to England with little actual knowledge or information and returned with incredible understanding of another country. I have learned so much not just from the places we visited, but from listening to each one of my classmates, tour guides, and from local stories. What an extraordinary experience! Cheers to a wonderful unforgettable, valuable experience and cheers to meeting such a happy, energetic and diversified group of students. I have truly been blessed in finding the guidance from SPC , its advisers, and staff to take advantage of these incredible opportunities to study abroad. I believe the things in life that I do for the excitement of the journey and the adventure, I will not forget. This is a great way to learn. We have but one life to live. If we do it right, then that’s all we need. Go travel and learn! – Sanober, SPC England Study Abroad Program, March 2023
The United States and France are contrasting cultures yet embody similar sentiments that are highly valued in both countries. Here are some things I learned from going into lengthy conversations with French citizens. In France, children are raised with caution and to be aware of their surroundings. A result of that is that they tend to be less outgoing to strangers. In America, individuals are more welcoming to strangers and tend to constantly lend a hand. The French are timid in the fact that they fear outsiders are out to get them. Two completely different mind sights, neither right nor wrong. Another point is that in France there is freedom to protest without fear and possible retaliation. It tends to be more peaceful and respected. In America, protesting can be a frowned upon activity and not many positive ventures come from it. Thirdly, Americans seem from what I have gathered more eager and friendly towards tourists. French people, as a French citizen, relayed to me that tourism is despised, as people tend to overly romanticize and create false narratives about their hometown, especially that of Paris. In America, tourism is not only acceptable but a norm.
Americans work to live, and schedules tend to be jammed packed each day. The French realize how short life is and they create space each day to have walks and lunches with friends, peers, co-workers, and family. Similarly, French and Americans are dog people and love outdoor activities when given the chance. Both countries tend to constantly rush to places, as if there’s a timer waiting to go off. Though French people seem to be able to find relaxation easier compared to Americans. Both countries have a mixture of cuisines, endless opportunities to explore, and the ability to find one’s niche. – Cooper, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
It is hard to find the right words to describe my study abroad experience in Jamaica. I knew when I applied that this would be a great experience and a way to sharpen my clinical skills as a dental hygienist. What I did not realize was how rewarding the humanitarian aspect of this opportunity would be. To be honest, I have never given much thought to volunteer work, especially not humanitarian work. But after my experience in Jamaica, I’m eager to do as much and as many as I can. Stepping away from the school clinic and not having to worry about making points or getting competencies done gave me the opportunity to see dental hygiene in a new light. For the first time it was only about patient care, and it was amazing. Most of the patients I saw in Jamaica had either never had a dental cleaning before or it had been years since they last saw a hygienist. Being able to provide someone with that care was an indescribable feeling.
All of the patients I saw were so incredibly thankful and happy that we were there for them. I had a patient who was 29 years old and had never had a dental cleaning before. The level of calculus he had was something I had never seen before. He shared with me that he had been going through a hard time and he was embarrassed he let is teeth get into the condition they were in. Once I finished his cleaning and he saw his teeth without all the buildup, he couldn’t stop smiling and thanking me.
This is the type of experience I was not anticipating when I signed up, but I am so thankful and grateful for it. Being able to help people and make a difference in their lives is an incredible feeling. Without this study abroad opportunity I would have no idea what that feeling is. I am so happy I was able to have this experience and I will definitely be volunteering for more humanitarian trips in the future. Thank you for providing me with this opportunity, it was life changing. – Cassidy, SPC Jamaica Dental Study Abroad Program, October 2022
This was such a great experience. If I could get back on that plane, I would do it in a heartbeat. This humanitarian trip was even more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. It brings tears to my eyes because we received more from these people than we could ever provide for them. We were able to provide treatment and items to hundreds of people within the ten days we were there. Tuesday, the first day that we were split up to go to our rotation sites, I was sent to a local school to speak to the children. All the children wore nice, ironed uniforms and they were very respectful. They were just as excited to see me as I was to see them. Six days later, my classmates and I went into a very poor neighborhood to hand out items. As I was getting off the bus, I heard a voice say “Adriana?!”. I was shocked because I kept thinking to myself, “Who knows me out here?!”. It was a little boy from the school that I had visited earlier that week. He ran up to me and hugged me so tight. I couldn’t help but cry from so much happiness. We gifted him sandals and a soccer ball, as he told us that this was the best day of his life. This humanitarian trip is something that everyone needs to experience. Sometimes we don’t realize how small we really are in this world. I encourage all future students to apply. This experience will always hold a special place in my heart. – Adriana, SPC Jamaica Dental Study Abroad Program, October 2022
My name is Alison and I was gratefully chosen to go on a mission trip to Jamaica Study Abroad along with the rest of my other classmates.
To begin to explain what this experience has done for me and still continue to do for me… well its simple. Life changing, rewarding, and pure. This trip has made me well aware that my dental hygiene passion can and WILL go beyond what I had initially thought my passion for it was before this mission trip. The best part? I have barely even started my adventure! I have already met so many new friends which whom I can see being a whole new dental family that meet up once a year, improved my clinical skills, and even got some time to learn the Jamaican culture! Did I mention, we have friends up there now? In other states and even in Jamaica in an entire other country!?
This trip has shown me natural, pure, love. My heart has grown so big when I realized that I have plenty more room to add to it I knew there was no point in return; and I mean in a good way! I know that this won’t just be a career for me, it serves a purpose clinically and physically, however I will never look at it that way from here on out. I’ll see it as I’m here for the community, the passion to keep giving, the way I know I can make this world a better place, and to always let love and kindness take over. I get it now, making your annual income is just the cherry on top; a bonus. But you won’t really fulfill your life and purpose if you don’t move with love and guidance as well.
For me, that is about educating others and raising awareness of preventing oral health diseases and what we can do to prevent the disease to progress. I thought to myself “Alison, do you realize how many lives you just changed on this trip and how many more you will continue to do so?” until your foundation has been built with passion just like I learned at the start of this trip, you won’t be able to move with life to the fullest like the way this has made me felt, it was magical.
Passion it makes this world a better place to be in, a better learner, a better mentor to be, and even a better you to live in. Jamaica, this was where I knew my dental hygiene passion was officially born. I am forever grateful for this opportunity and would like to thank the people who has helped made this mission trip possible. Because of you, you have gained 9 new superheroes who will be part of changing so much in this world. We will only live on to continue this ripple affect, because love always takes over. One Love! – Alison, SPC Jamaica Dental Study Abroad Program, October 2022
Each and every one of us has a story to tell and share with others. During my trip to Jamaica, I was able to meet wonderful unique individuals. I was fortunate enough to be able to listen to their life stories and for a short-while experience their culture. It was amazing to create everlasting bonds with the people of Jamaica and all the while to be an act of service by increasing their oral health. It was a humbling experience to see people so positive and have so little. When we had to hand-out toys, toothbrushes, diapers, and more it was amazing to see everyone so appreciative of our donations. All of the big, bright and beautiful smiles that we received after their dental cleaning was truly remarkable to witness. I was truly blessed by being able to enjoy the island by sightseeing the coast of Jamaica and immersing myself in the culture by living the day in the life as one of their own.
Some of the most rewarding moments in Jamaica was when I was cleaning a local Ocho Rios resident’s teeth. A landscape worker, who waited all day, wanted to thank me by a heartfelt hug and gifting me a bracelet that was handmade from his youngest daughter. One of my fondest memories in Jamaica was when I was able to travel to the local schools and educate the young, bright, and enthusiastic individuals. When I was welcomed by the youth of Ocho Rios, they were awed by the different and diverse characteristics, it was flattering to say the least.
Knowing I can help others by simply improving their oral health has been a gratifying experience. I will forever be grateful for the Dental Hygiene program by allowing me to take this opportunity to go to Jamaica. Also, I would like to thank the Ocho Rios community by welcoming us with open arms as well as giving me the opportunity to gain experience in my profession and furthering my skills. This was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will cherish forever. Spread love as they would say and that is something that I will always take with me. – Evelin, SPC Jamaica Dental Study Abroad Program, October 2022
My experience in Jamaica was incredibly rewarding. We had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people while providing much needed dental cleanings. Aside from the dental aspect of this trip, we had a few days where we went out into the local community to learn about Jamaican culture. We handed out toothbrushes and toys to children, ate traditional Jamaican food, and explored the local area. One of the experiences we were fortunate enough to participate in was watching turtles hatch and helping them make it to the ocean as part of a turtle rescue foundation. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and our guide was very knowledgeable in all turtle related things! I highly recommend this course to anyone with a passion for giving back. – Rachael, SPC Jamaica Dental Study Abroad Program, October 2022
