All posts by Gloria Parrott

SPC Study Abroad: Changed me and opened my eyes far beyond the small bubble!

Costa Rica (ASL) 2026, News, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

It was life changing in more ways than one, and it is hard to put into words how much this trip meant to me. The Lord I serve used this experience to show me how to feel truly alive, step out of my comfort zone, and see life from a new perspective. Being in Costa Rica let me experience the culture through the food, the language, the people, and the beautiful everyday moments. As a CODA with Deaf parents, this trip connected deeply to who I am and how I see the world. I was able to grow not only as a traveler, but also as someone who has always lived between the Hearing and Deaf communities.


I am super grateful that I was able to experience such an amazing trip, and honestly, I wish I could go back. I see the world much more differently now because this experience helped me understand culture, language, and identity in a deeper way. Learning about LESCO, Costa Rica’s sign language, showed me how many different versions of sign language there are and helped me connect it back to my own life as a CODA. It also deepened my understanding of the Deaf and Hard of hearing community and what Deaf people experience in another country, beyond what I knew from growing up with Deaf parents. This gift of a trip made possible through study abroad and the scholarship, changed me in ways I never expected and opened my eyes far beyond the small bubble I was in before.

– Ezria, SPC Costa Rica (ASL) Study Abroad Program, May 2026

SPC Ireland: The VIP experience!

Ireland 2024, Ireland 2027, Scholarships, Travel

On our first full day we had the opportunity to walk around the Dublin zoo with one of the conservation staff members. She talked to us about the different big cats in the zoo and explained how the habitats are created for them. We visited the zoo’s veterinary hospital and spoke with one of the veterinarians. Afterwards we had free time to walk around the zoo and explore everything it has to offer.

We also had the opportunity to visit Wild Ireland. This sanctuary is home to many native animals that once roamed freely through Ireland. The sanctuary provides every animal with a habitat that is tailored to their specific needs. We had the opportunity to get a VIP experience of seeing where the animal’s food is prepared and then feeding time for the bears. This was an amazing opportunity to learn about the native species to Ireland and their habitats.

– Peyton, SPC Ireland (Vet Tech) Study Abroad Program, March 2026

SPC Ireland: Visiting NWRC in Limavady !

Ireland 2024, Ireland 2027, Scholarships, Travel

Today was an early morning starting at 8. We traveled by bus to the Limavady NWRC campus. The vet tech students there gave us a presentation on how things are done there. After the presentation some Irish dancers did a few different dances which were super cute. After that we went to an Oyster fry which was absolutely delicious. It consisted of potato cakes, soda bread, sausage, fried eggs etc. Potato bread was my favorite. After we ate, we had to give our presentation which we were all nervous for. We did amazing for it!! We visited the classroom where the vet tech students learn at. They had stations set up where they were practicing for their practical portions national exam before certification.

The afternoon consisted of off campus activities. We took a bus ride to visit some scenic views which included a temple. After the temple we took a trip to see alpacas and got to take them for a walk. My alpacas name was Terry and he was 2 years old. He wasn’t a fan of going on the walk and stayed in the back. All alpacas were super cute including Jim Bob who did not care to be walked and followed behind everywhere. He is working on his social skills and did take some treats from a few students today which was amazing progress. It was an awesome time.

– Rachel, SPC Ireland (Vet Tech) Study Abroad Program, March 2026

SPC Ireland: I’m still in shock I got to be there!

Ireland, Ireland (Vet Tech) 2026, Ireland 2024, Ireland 2027, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

During our time in Derry, we had the opportunity to visit North Coast Alpacas, a wonderful, family owned and operated alpaca and dairy farm. We were able to meet, feed, handle, and even go on a trail walk with the multiple alpacas! The owner and farmer of the property gave us a lot of useful information about alpacas and their nutrition, environment, and overall well-being. Everyone was incredibly kind to us. He is a fifth generation farmer and it was so neat to see how important farming and these animals are important to Ireland and the people who live there.

We had the pleasure of being able to stop at Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-rede Bridge on our way to Belfast. The pictures of both places don’t even begin to do them justice. It was the most stunning places I have ever seen in my life. The workers at both locations shared a bit of background information about the history and creation of each place and how they’re maintained today. Truly a bucket list, must see place to visit and I’m still in shock I got to be there!

– Rebecca, SPC Ireland (Vet Tech) Study Abroad Program, March 2026

SPC Ireland (Vet Tech): The Great Experience

Ireland, Ireland (Vet Tech) 2026, Ireland 2024, Ireland 2027, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

Trinity college was a great experience as we were immersed in beautiful architecture filled with an interesting history. Trinity college is an open structed campus allowing tourist like us to tour the beautiful place that these students study in relentlessly to secure a solid future. While we were allowed to enter, back then Catholics were not allowed into trinity college until 1970s, thus another college close by was made so everyone can get an education prior to acceptance.

A statue of Provost George Salmon stands to the left of the Campanile (big bell tower) inside the campus which is a famous spot women take a picture next to. The reasoning behind the fame of this statue is due to his most remember words that he proclaimed over his dead body will no women enter the college. Rapidly after his death in 1904 the first female students entered and attended the college. Women now enter and walk over his burial site and by his statue daily which shows how much has changed over the years at this college. Today the college welcomes everyone giving wonderful opportunities to flourish, despite its restrictive past.

The campus holds the Book of Kells and the Brian Boru Harp, which are historic pieces that bring lots of attention from locals and tourists. The Brian Boru Harp is seen as the national emblem of Ireland and can be seen on the passports and coins. The harp is also modified and appears everywhere as the symbol for the famous Guinness brand. The Book of Kells is displayed in a special room for preservation for people to look with the eye but not to photograph or video record. The Book of Kells is a Celtic Gospel book containing pictures filled with breathtaking colors and Latin text. Both items were truly a sight to behold and getting to listen to the history of the items and the college itself made me appreciate the campus even more. The campus is filled with rich history that parallels to the beauty of the architecture that remains.

– Kandice, SPC Ireland (Vet Tech) Study Abroad Program, March 2026

SPC Ireland: An eye-opening experience!

Ireland, Ireland (Vet Tech) 2026, Ireland 2024, Ireland 2027, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

My visit to Northwest Regional College (NWRC) in Ireland was an eye-opening experience that showed me how similar veterinary nursing education can be across countries. While touring the campus and speaking with students, I noticed that their program closely mirrors the veterinary technology program at St. Petersburg College (SPC) in Florida. Both programs emphasize a strong balance between classroom instruction and hands-on clinical skills. Students at NWRC are trained in essential areas such as anesthesia monitoring, surgical assisting, and animal handling, which are also core components at SPC. Seeing these similarities firsthand reinforced how consistent veterinary education standards are, even internationally.



In addition to technical skills, both programs focus heavily on communication, critical thinking, and professionalism within the veterinary field. Students are encouraged to advocate for their patients while effectively working with clients and veterinary teams. This shared approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for the fast-paced and demanding environment of veterinary practice. My experience at NWRC gave me a deeper appreciation for the global standards of veterinary nursing education. Overall, it was inspiring to see that both NWRC and SPC share the same goal of developing skilled, compassionate veterinary professionals.

– Deja, SPC Ireland (Vet Tech) Study Abroad Program, March 2026

SPC Antigua: A life-changing experience!

Antigua, Bahamas 2025, Jamaica (Dental), Jamaica 2022 (Dental), Jamaica 2023 (Dental), Travel

My trip to Antigua with the Saint Petersburg College dental hygiene program was a life-changing experience. Prior to this trip, I had never been out of the country, so I was honestly a bit nervous. This experience not only gave me a greater understanding of the cultural aspects of Antigua, but it also opened my eyes to the need for dental care in other countries. We were able to volunteer in a dental clinic for the week, and I left wishing we could have stayed longer.

I loved helping the people of Antigua, they were truly some of the best patients I have ever had. Many patients told me that I had changed their lives, which was an incredible feeling.
We were also lucky enough to explore the beautiful island. We saw the gorgeous pink sand beaches and swam with sea turtles. I am so thankful for the opportunity to have experienced such a wonderful trip. I highly encourage future students to apply for this study abroad program. It was hard work, but I loved every minute!

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

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The mission trip to Antigua brought together by Great Shape was a great experience where I got to be immersed in another culture and utilize my skills developed in school to help people in need. We got to tour the island and see the culture, its local people, and try their foods, giving us a better understanding of their culture and what it means to them. Getting to see some of their culture helped to be able to connect with my patients as they came in.


I gained valuable clinical experience by seeing more advanced cases than what we normally see in the school clinic that will make me a better clinician. More importantly, serving the people of Antigua ignited another spark of passion for my profession and filled my heart with warmth. The people were so nice, social, and always smiling, and beyond thankful and appreciative for the work we came there to do. Even though we were there to serve them, I feel like I received a lot more out of this mission than I gave and I’m so grateful I was given the opportunity to do this.

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

SPC Antigua Dental Hygiene: We’ve gained so much more from this!

Antigua, Bahamas 2025, Jamaica (Dental), Jamaica 2022 (Dental), Jamaica 2023 (Dental), Travel
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It is safe to say that I’ve gained so much more from this trip than I gave. While I did provide the people of Antigua with great dental care and education, they changed my life forever. They welcomed me with open arms and allowed me to be a part of their culture. They opened my eyes and gave me a new outlook on life. There is no doubt that they are the most respectful, appreciative, and grateful people I have ever met. They have so much less than we do, yet they seem to be happier. They truly understand what is important in life.


Going to the local schools to provide dental education and toys will always be something that I will remember for the rest of my life. Every kid was so polite, and I couldn’t help but smile when talking to each one of them. Nothing in my life has ever made my heart feel so full. This trip was an emotional, spiritual, and humbling experience that I will never forget. Every expectation that I had going into this trip was greatly exceeded. I hope to do this every year for as long as I can.

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

My time in Antigua was an experience I will never forget as it has left an everlasting impact on my life. Each day there, felt purposeful and had meaning- especially when I got to visit a local school to educate children on oral hygiene. Teaching them how to brush and floss was rewarding and seeing their curiosity ignited something in me. Their eagerness to learn reminded me how powerful education can be and it made me happy knowing that something so small can have a powerful impact on someone else’s life. This was a highlight of this trip for me!
    While on the island, we primarily provided dental treatment to the local community. Many of these patients had never had dental care before, and this was eye opening and humbling. I was nervous, however, their gratitude and smiles made everything feel worth it! Outside of the clinic, I got to experience their culture, everything from their food, music, and warmth of their community. In the end, I feel this trip helped me grow professionally and personally, all while serving people who needed our help.

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

SPC Antigua: Changed my perspective and strengthened my passion for helping others!

Antigua, Bahamas 2025, Jamaica (Dental), Jamaica 2022 (Dental), Jamaica 2023 (Dental), Travel
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I recently had the opportunity to travel to the beautiful island of Antigua and Barbuda on a dental mission trip as a student dental hygienist. This experience allowed me to combine my passion for oral hygiene with cultural exploration in such a welcoming place. The locals were incredibly kind and taught us so much about Antigua. One of my favorite places we visited was Devil’s Bridge, where we saw powerful waves and learned about the island’s history and natural beauty. Antigua truly has the bluest waters I have ever seen! Exploring the culture helped me feel more connected to the community we were serving.


Providing dental cleanings was the most meaningful part of the entire experience for me. Families were lined up for dental services as early as 5 in the morning, many with their children. This, to me, in itself was eye-opening, because it showed the need for oral care in the community and the extent that some people have to go to just to receive it. Some patients came in nervous, but they always left happier and more comfortable. Everyone was so grateful to learn more about oral hygiene, and it felt amazing to be able to provide that care. I felt grateful to use the skills I have been learning over the past two years to make a real difference. Even small moments, like helping a child feel comfortable and making their dental visit a positive experience, meant so much to me. The gratitude from patients is something I will never forget, and it reminded me why I chose dental hygiene in the first place.

This trip truly changed my perspective and strengthened my passion for helping others through compassionate, patient-centered care. I was very upset about leaving, but I will definitely be back in the future on more dental mission trips.

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

SPC Antigua: Values service, hands-on learning, and global connection!

Antigua, Bahamas 2025, Jamaica (Dental), Jamaica 2022 (Dental), Jamaica 2023 (Dental), Travel

Participating in a study abroad experience through my dental hygiene program at SPC was one of the most meaningful parts of my education so far. Spending ten days in Antigua, providing free dental care to underserved communities, changed me in the best way possible. Leaving the classroom and my textbooks behind, I gained confidence in my clinical skills, improved my communication with patients from different backgrounds, and I learned how to be adaptable and impactful as a future dental hygienist. I was able to see first-hand that I can make a difference in the world with the skills that I have learned. Hundreds of dental cleanings later, this experience truly transformed what I was learning in school into something real, purposeful, and deeply fulfilling.


What made this experience even more special was knowing that my classmates and I were supported by a program that values service, hands-on learning, and global connection. Our school prepared us with the necessary skills, professionalism, ethics, and confidence needed to care for patients in an unfamiliar setting, which made the experience both challenging and rewarding. Opportunities like this show how education can extend far beyond a classroom, and reach into the lives of others. I hope to provide for people who need dental care all around the world moving forward. I would strongly encourage students to consider study abroad if given the chance, as it offers personal growth and purpose that can’t be taught from a textbook in a classroom. It’s an experience that strengthens not only clinical abilities, but also your sense of purpose, love, and passion.

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