All posts by Gloria Parrott

SPC England Study Abroad: Unforgettable

England 2023, England 2025, News, Study Abroad, Travel

My trip this March was unforgettable.

I laughed, cried and learned more than words can express.

There were so many amazing experiences that it is hard to narrow down the thoughts that flood my mind.

This was the first time I traveled without my family. Some would have thought this impossible for a non-speaking person like me. In my life I have had many educational setbacks. However, this trip made up for them all. I feel like this trip to the UK gave me an opportunity to explore on my own. This gave me the autonomy I had so long craved. In my life, there have not been many moments where I have had the chance to experience that.

In the United Kingdom, I studied alongside my fellow study abroad students. I really struggle with being accepted by students that don’t understand my disability. They assume that I am not competent. This trip gave them the time they needed to get to know me. It also gave them time to learn about my capabilities. It also gave me time to get to know them on a deep level. Everyone bonded and I think we will be lifelong friends.

In Ethics I learned, there are virtues that are valuable traits to have. One of them is to be curious.

On this trip, I had my curious thirst for adventure quenched.

We went to several historic landmarks. My favorite by far was the place where John Lennon played, Strawberry Fields. At the time it housed orphans; it now helps neurodiverse find employment that is appropriate for their particular abilities. The residents there are supported by. Yoko Ono. They are, in essence, doing what I did by going abroad. They are gaining autonomy and independence. People are seeing their worth.

Sometimes I feel like I am living in a dream because for so long I was denied opportunities like this, ones that stimulate my curiosity. I cannot wait for the next one. Where will SPC take me next?
– Nico, SPC England Study Abroad Program, March 2023

SPC France Study Abroad: Once in a lifetime trip that was more than exhilarating, leaving us with extraordinary experiences that will last a lifetime.

France (High School), News, Study Abroad, Travel

I had the incredible opportunity to travel to an astonishing country with my best friend while meeting new people along the way. As everyone says, this was a once in a lifetime trip that was more than exhilarating, leaving us with extraordinary experiences that will last a lifetime. Of course, everything cannot be perfect this meaning: Leaving a passport at the hotel, losing a wallet, not drinking enough water, not eating enough food, and eventually some drama occurring. Now, these were my friend and I’s own personal downfalls and encourage anyone wanting to travel to do their own extensive research on whatever country they’re discovering. 

When our tour arrived in Paris there was a protest that continued to escalate leading to mounds of trash collecting on the curbs of every road in the city. This did not take away from the magnificence of the historical city known for its scenic assets. Not only did the city look incredible, but the food was far more desirable than the sights. I do warn travelers with choosy palettes, the meat is mostly served what I consider undercooked yet, cooked enough to not be raw. Besides the meat my friend and I’s favorite food was chocolate crepes, no matter what part of the country we bought them in they were always delicious.  

Personally, I have traveled to Italy with EF tours previously and was expecting relativity the same amount of luxurious as before. However, the tour guide operated our journey differently than I expected. Our tour guide specifically (Danelle) packed our day with constant sightseeing and reservations without giving us much personal time to explore on our own. Unlike my first tour guide (Ali), we were given multiple sightseeing options and ended up voting on what the majority was interested in. The quality of the tour primarily relies on the quality of the tour guide, and your mindset of the trip. Any out of country trip is worth taking for the experience and memories as long as research has been completed.  
– Delaney, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023

SPC England Study Abroad: I fell in love

England 2023, News, Study Abroad, Travel

Upon hearing my professor gracefully explain a trip to Europe within the upcoming months, I instantly became very attracted to that trip. I’ve always been very intrigued with the rich and ancient culture that England harbors, from the centuries old London bridge to the enormous and architecturally aesthetic castles. Although it was never my intention to be a part of a British literature class, it evidently became to be my favorite class within this spring semester. Whilst this was also my first online class, I have ever taken that actually went through with the zoom meetings, it was awkward for me to finally meet my classmates in person after several weeks of hearing each other in class but never seeing each other.

 Although the first interaction was gauche, the ultimate relationship we built at the end of our short-lived and unforeseen greatness of a trip is unforgettable. Even on the plane ride to England was amazing, I was unexpectedly sat next two of my fellow piers who were quick to introduce themselves and begin our close companionship for the next several days. I was left speechless when we finally departed from the Manchester airport and descended into the motherlands of England. Arriving in Liverpool really made me come to a realization that I am in a completely different part of the world that has different custom’s than the ones I grew up with. I very much admired the very civil and selfless people of England, the people of England welcomed myself and my group with the widest of arms and aiding us in the needs they were able to assist with. Culture shock is a very much real thing that I underwent, although it was not a bad thing when in England. I truly wish I could just pack my things and head to the United Kingdom, I fell in love with the culture, history of the country, the and the exclusiveness feel of England.
– George, SPC England Study Abroad Program, March 2023

SPC Study Abroad: If I was able to do it again, I would.

France (High School), News, Study Abroad, Travel

My experience on going to France was absolutely awesome. At first, I was kind of nervous because it was my first time going outside of the country and I did not know really what to expect. When we landed at the Paris airport, I looked out the window of the plane and I saw how massive that airport was. When we landed, we proceeded to go on a twenty-minute drive on the plane to reach our terminal.

When I first entered Paris, I noticed how different everything looked. A lot of the building looked like they were from a different era and had that older look that is very cool. It makes sense because France has a way longer history than the United States so of course the buildings are going to have an older look to them. It was also cool to see some of the protest that the French people were doing and they definitely know how to host a protest because I was getting motivated by their chants and I didn’t even know what they were saying.

Another thing that was different was the whole bathroom situation. While here in the U.S there is a bathroom every 10 feet, in France there is one every 2 miles. So, when I was there, I had to plan out when to go and not to go because I did not know where the next bathroom would appear.

When on the trip the best part I liked was when the group would stop at a small town and I would explore. When I was exploring them, the towns were so quiet and peaceful. I could just sit on the curb and hangout there for hours. Also, the food was just amazing and I don’t really have the word for how the food tasted. Everything there tasted different from their soda to their chicken. My favorite thing I got while over there was coconut flan, which I got from a local bakery in one of the small towns.  At that point in the day it was really nice out at the time which was good because it was kind of cold and cloudy in the days before then. All in all, my experience in France was amazing and it definitely was a once in a lifetime first experience for me.
– Erick, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023

Traveling to different countries has been a dream of mine since middle school. I remember
hearing stories from my friend who has traveled the world with her family, and it all sounded so
amazing. I grew up lower middle class, so traveling like that has never been an option for my
family. So when I heard about an opportunity to go to France, I jumped on it. I worked hard to
save, and my wonderful family helped me out a lot. When I first landed, I literally thought I was
in a dream. The trip was amazing. The food was delicious, the shops were so fun, and the hotels
were nice. What spoke to me the most was the history. The ages of everything there was mind
blowing. My two favorite locations were Mont Saint-Michel and the Palace of Versailles. Both of
them were rich with history, and I felt like I was able to feel the spiritual energy of all who came
before me. Walking those halls was something I will never forget. Paris was also mind blowing.
It was the biggest city I had ever been in. The historical architecture was amazing, as well as the
incorporation of art into their life. The murals/graffiti was unlike anything I had ever seen.
Seeing the artwork in the Louvre was unbelievable. I never thought I would see the Mona Lisa,
but suddenly it was in front of me, along with many others. The art looked unreal, it was that
good. Finally, the chapels were incredible. I felt the faith in each and every one of those chapels.
It felt so good to reconnect with my religion and feel the historical faith in the churches. In
conclusion, this trip was something I will never forget. It widened my perspective on life, and
really helped me understand European values. It also helped me get to know traveling a little
better, and how I prefer to travel. If I was able to do it again, I would. I loved everything over
there.– Kenzie, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023

SPC France Study Abroad: One of the best things I could have ever done!

France (High School), News, Paris 2025, Study Abroad, Travel

Studying abroad is the opportunity of a lifetime. By leaving our comfort zone and venturing out into a new culture, we not only gain academic knowledge but also life experiences that will shape our future endeavors. Immersing oneself in a foreign country can help improve foreign language skills, broaden our horizons, and build independence and resilience. We may also gain valuable networking opportunities and form lifelong friendships. 

This past March of 2023 I went on a study abroad trip to France with a wonderful group of people and it was one of the best things I could have ever done. When I first learned about the trip in August, I immediately knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. I was unsure at first if it was going to be worth it but once I was able to see the itinerary, I immediately became sure of it. The entire registration and application process was very easy and quick. 

My overall experience was very good. The trip exceeded my expectations. I was happy that we not only stayed in Paris but that we also got to visit other parts of France. It has always been a dream of mine to visit and going on this trip helped me get the best out of it. We were constantly moving and emerging ourselves into the French culture. We always had full days visiting beautiful places. Although it could get tiring it was worth it. We had an amazing tour guide that ensured we got the full French experience. Even though the trip was only 10 days long it felt like we were there for weeks because of how much we were able to see. This trip was one of my favorites and I would 100% recommend others to consider study abroad, I am definitely looking forward to the next trip. 

In a global society, having international exposure and perspective is crucial in our personal and professional lives. Studying abroad can provide significant benefits that cannot be gained solely from studying in our home country. By stepping out of our comfort zones and into the world, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and the world around us.  

Studying abroad may be challenging, but it can be a transformative experience that can change our lives forever. It is an opportunity that should not be missed or wasted.  
– Amanda, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023

I learned how important studying abroad can be to academics and social life after going on the France trip this semester. That was the first time I ever traveled anywhere, let alone out of the country. In fact, my going to France was the first time anyone in my entire extended family left the country. Coming from a small family in a smaller town, I’ve always felt like my viewpoint of the world was much too limited. I always had this feeling that there was a huge part of the world that I would just never have the opportunity to know. I’ve always longed to travel, and I am so thankful for Study Abroad giving me the chance because I might have never had the opportunity.
The trip to France was probably the biggest thing that ever happened to me. It was almost instant to me, the second we stepped off the metro into Paris, that I felt my worldview change. For the first time, I could feel my life expanding in front of me and it proved that I could experience things I never thought I would be able to.
My favorite part of going on the France trip was exploring the art and historical landmarks. I’ve been able to write about these things in some of my classes and use the things I’ve learned in my extracurricular writing. I’ve always loved art, but learning about the history behind the methods of painting and making art has been even more interesting. Being able to see such amazing architecture and art was like time-traveling. It was a grounding experience and it helped expand my worldview.
Also, being able to travel with some of my best friends was so rewarding and exciting. A high schooler rarely gets to go on this kind of trip with such close friends, so I was so thankful for this experience. I was also able to make great new friends and experience a new kind of independence. I got to see and try new things, all while being surrounded by amazing people. For me, this trip was full of adventure, laughter, and discovery.
– Emily, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023

SPC France Study Abroad: Astounded and Impressed

France (High School), News, Paris 2025, Study Abroad, Travel

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

SPC France Study Abroad: New friends and New experiences

France (High School), News, Study Abroad, Travel

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

SPC France Study Abroad :I have completely changed as a person

France (High School), News, Paris 2025, Study Abroad, Travel

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

SPC England Study Abroad: I wish I could spend another lifetime there.

England 2025, France (High School), News, Study Abroad, Travel

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

England Study Abroad: All I can say is WOW!

England 2023, England 2025, News, Study Abroad, Travel

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