All posts by Gloria Parrott

SPC Spain: Unforgettable!

Scholarships, Spain 2019, Spain 2022, Spain 2023, Spain 2024, Spain 2025, Spain 2026, Travel

My experience in Spain was beautiful from start to finish. One of my favorite parts was all the hiking and walking. We were constantly climbing things that left us out of breath, but the views made it all worth it. I loved the exercise and how active the trip felt. Visiting places like Segovia and Ávila was unforgettable, and I got to see so many stunning sights. The people in the street were kind and wholesome, and I genuinely enjoyed stopping to talk with them.

The club culture was definitely different, not totally my vibe, but I had fun learning about it. I did miss my full American breakfasts, but discovering new parts of the culture made up for it. Everything was surprisingly affordable, and trying the cocktails was another highlight. Even little things, like how their bottle caps don’t come off all the way, made Europe feel so different in the best way.


What truly made my stay special was my host mom. She was an incredible cook and such a warm, welcoming person. I had the chance to talk with her a lot, and honestly, most of my growth in Spanish and confidence in understanding the language came from those conversations. My teachers also played a huge role. They weren’t just instructors, they were amazing tour guides who helped us experience the language on a deeper, more personal level. They taught us both formal and familiar Spanish, which made it easier to connect with people and feel like I belonged. Altogether, the trip wasn’t just about seeing a new place. It was about learning, growing, and feeling a little more at home in the world.

– Naja , SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2025

SPC Spain: The Colorful Culture of España

Spain 2022, Spain 2023, Spain 2024, Spain 2025, Spain 2026, Travel

About two months ago, as the days rapidly passed and time flew by, I had realized and so suddenly, it was May 31st. Soon I would be on the trip that I had been anticipating since the year before. There was such a wide range of emotion in the pit of my stomach, both fear and excitement being the most dominant feelings, as it was my first time flying and traveling alone, let alone to a different country. Little did I know, the next three weeks would be the most culturally enriching, horizon widening, knowledge building trip I would ever take in my entire life.


Salamanca- known for its historical university, beautiful antique architecture, massive cathedrals, and of course, La Plaza Mayor! All available right in the heart of España. Within the beautiful city, there is vibrant colorful life everywhere. Not only in what you see, but what you experience. When you walk down the streets, it is extremely difficult to ignore the rich culture poured into each building, since the past is well preserved, and blended with the present, as historical architecture appears to be untouched. Each day, I was granted the opportunity to learn, practice, and converse in Spanish with my host family, professors, and locals. I deeply enjoyed speaking there because it was amazing taking and combining what we would learn in class with what the native speakers would often say when communicating with one another, and overall, truly understanding the culture all the more. After class and on the weekends, we would be taken on many excursions, whether that was to explore the inside of the old or new cathedral, try different tapas, learn about historical jewelry like the Charro, listen to new music and try new dance, or explore different cities and learn more about the amazing history of España.


As a medical student, my goal within study abroad was to be able to speak Spanish more fluently to be able to communicate with others all the more. With SPC and Estudio Sampere I feel more confident within my ability to speak Spanish with others and have an overall deeper appreciation for España, and for that, I am eternally grateful. For Senora Levin, an amazing tutor and guide with so much love and patience for each individual student, the awesome professors, faculty, and host families, and of course, all of those who were involved with the study abroad 2025 trip, and SPC study abroad for an amazing scholarship, which helped tremendously.

– Ravin, SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2025

SPC Spain: Beauty, culture, and connection!

Scholarships, Spain 2019, Spain 2022, Spain 2023, Spain 2024, Spain 2025, Spain 2026, Travel

Salamanca, Spain was an unforgettable experience filled with beauty, culture, and connection. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the stunning architecture—especially the cathedral that seemed to tell stories with every carving. Walking through the historic streets, I felt deeply immersed not only in the Spanish language but also in the rich history behind every brick wall. Visiting nearby cities like San Sebastián, La Alberca, Ávila, and seeing the amazing aqueduct in Segovia added even more depth to the journey. Each location offered its own historical significance, and the natural beauty of the region left a lasting impression.


What made the experience even more special was being part of a group equally passionate about learning Spanish. It was inspiring to be surrounded by people who shared the same goal, and we supported each other as we practiced the language in real-life settings. The locals were incredibly welcoming, and I loved being able to talk with them and learn from their stories. Experiencing a local festival was one of the highlights of this trip. It was amazing to see how the community comes alive with music, dancing, and tradition. The atmosphere, the people, and the daily life in Spain made this trip not just a learning opportunity, but a deeply enriching cultural experience I’ll never forget.

– Katrina , SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2025

SPC Morocco: Leaning into Culture Shock

Morocco 2025, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

My time in Morocco is easily the most enchanting time of my life. I have done some traveling in Europe, but nothing could prepare me for the culture shock I experienced. When I say culture shock, I want to be clear, I mean in the best way possible. Everything was a new and magical experience, from the food, to the language, to the dress. I was constantly in awe of this culture so different from my own. The cities blend antiquity with modernity in a way I had never experienced. It was fascinating to see five hundred plus year old ruins serving as the backdrop for modern films like Gladiator. And the people I met! Never have I come across a kinder, more welcoming country. Every single person I met from the time I stepped off the plane until I returned to Miami welcomed me to their country. You can tell they really meant it. I made so many friendships in such a short period of time and I cannot wait to return and see them all again someday.

            The biggest lesson I learned on this trip is that sometimes it’s best to lean into discomfort. To push your own boundaries in the name of self-exploration. You will not only learn things about yourself, and what you are capable of, but you will learn more about the world you live in. When I say everything about Morocco was new, and exciting, it was also at times confusing and maybe even a little scary. You have to embrace the confusion and look to the locals and those around you for clarification, recommendations and more. This is how you make the best of your time studying abroad. I brought back so much for this experience mentally (and physically, i bought a lot of souvenirs). I can’t recommend study abroad enough, and pick the trips that will immerse you in a culture so different from your own. Go to Africa, and Asia and places off of the beaten path. Eat food you’ve never seen before, go to the local markets, start a conversation with the store owner and watch your world expand. While the mosques, kasbahs, and medinas were a lovely experience, my favorite part of this trip was the little moments, and the hospitality I experienced that guided me through a new culture.

– Danielle, SPC Morocco Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC Japan: It was life changing!

Japan 2024, Japan 2025, Japan 2026, Scholarships, Study Abroad in Japan, Travel

Traveling to Japan has always been something I dreamed of doing, SPC made my dreams turn into reality. When I applied to this program I was unsure if I would be accepted. When I received the email that I had been accepted I was over the moon! Something I had previously only ever thought about doing was about to become a reality.

This being my first time out of the country I was honestly a bit nervous. I had no idea what to expect and I was worried about doing something that wasn’t culturally accepted in Japan that may be acceptable back at home. But, now I can confidently say that my experience was amazing and honestly it was life changing. It blew my mind to see how differently others can live from the way that I do. It was so cool to see so many of the things I had only seen online before, in person now. I loved being immersed in the culture of others, and it helps open up your mind, and helps you see that what you are used to and what is considered normal at home is completely different than what someone in the other side of the world would consider normal. It was hard to get used to the culture in Japan, I honestly thought it would take a while to get used to but i honestly got comfortable quite quickly.

Also, can’t forget about the food! Everything I ate here was amazing! When I landed back home I was disappointed and missing the food back in Japan. This experience was something out of a dream. As well, I can’t forget to mention about how this trip has brought me connections I didn’t think I would make.

Everyone in this trip was amazing, and it was so fun to bond with this group of individuals. They made my experience So much better, and I could think of a better group of people, or a better professor to travel with. It has made me want to continue to travel and see the world. I plan to study abroad again, I cannot wait to see where SPC will take me next.

– Kamijah , SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC Morocco: Did not disappoint!

Morocco 2025, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

My study abroad trip to Morocco was an utterly unique experience. Having never left the United States before, it’d be hard to imagine that I could possibly visit such a beautifully ornate country and leave it not feeling changed as a person. While I like to think my experience only reinforced my love for travel and how I always thought I’d feel getting to travel internationally for the first time, reality is certainly a far cry from all the nights spent visualizing it. You can never be truly prepared for the real thing. But Morocco did not leave me wanting…except for the chance to go back!

I found myself easily enamored by Morocco’s landscapes, but what most unexpectedly excited me was the bustling nature of the cities we visited, especially Marrakesh. It was nothing less than energizing seeing the whirlwind of people flying around, each individual set on reaching their destinations and paying little attention to much else. It amazed me how quickly I felt “normal” and not like a tourist, being part of the waves of people crossing streets headed for their favorite alley restaurants or the souks of the medina. Melting into the crowds and feeling that sense of belonging with complete strangers was effortless given how busy the city centers were and how numerous the cars – and I can’t leave out the mopeds constantly whizzing past us as we walked. I also admit, rather sheepishly, how much I liked negotiating with shopkeepers to settle on prices we both felt was fair. It made for an interesting shopping experience, very different from the U.S. to say the least.

Though I loved all the activity of the cities, that isn’t to say the natural landscapes of Morocco are any less worth mentioning – as with anywhere I go, nature is always the best part (to me, anyway). The further we traveled inland, the sparser such cityscapes became, making even some of our longer bus rides enjoyable. My favorite part is always getting to see mountains and Morocco’s Atlas Mountain range did not disappoint! Even from a distance, looking out the window and seeing the mountains dot the sprawling desert landscape was everything I could’ve asked for. It was breathtaking. And the experience of getting to spend the night in the Sahara and watching the sun rise over the dunes escapes words.
It goes without saying how unbelievably grateful I am to have gone on such a trip and how ready I am for more.

– Drew, SPC Morocco Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC Japan: The most unforgettable experience

Japan 2024, Japan 2025, Japan 2026, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Study Abroad in Japan, Travel

My name is Angela, and I studied abroad in Japan with SPC while taking the course “East-West Synthesis”. I visited several cities, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Hakone, and Osaka. My experience studying abroad can be described as nothing other than absolutely amazing. Not only because it was one of my dreams to visit Japan, but also because I got the chance to immerse myself in another culture’s environment and truly experience what it’s like to be a global citizen.

While in Japan, I got to see cultural sites such as the Great Buddha Statue in the beautiful beach town of Kamakura, the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine located on a mountain in Kyoto, took a cable car up a mountain in Hakone to see a stellar view of Mt. Fuji, and visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where I had an in-utero survivor as my tour guide.

Not only did I receive an educational experience, but I also got the opportunity to live like a Japanese local. I had the chance to be styled in a traditional kimono from head to toe, including the wooden sandals and chopstick-style hairdo, and walk the streets of Kyoto. I also ate authentic ramen, fresh sushi, and tried wagyu steak for the first time. One of my favorite parts of this trip was taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) from city to city.

The most unforgettable experience of them all was making lasting friendships with my classmates on this trip, and quickly we went from strangers to close friends. This was my first study abroad trip, but it definitely will not be my last. I’ve now been inspired to travel to other countries to gain a similar cultural experience. And for that, I have St. Petersburg College to thank. Arigatō, SPC!

– Angela, SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC Japan: I would do it again!

Japan 2024, Japan 2025, Japan 2026, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Study Abroad in Japan, Travel

If you plan on heading to Japan through SPC’s study abroad, then this will be for you. After getting the chance to explore several beautiful cities of Japan with SPC’s group, I can assure you that I would do it again. It was honestly really refreshing to be able to go to Japan and meet tons of people exactly like me and fit in perfectly, it was all so worth going, especially for the culture.

Before coming on this trip. I thought I would have had to fill out a bunch of paperwork for the class, but they were super accommodating, giving us many months to prepare and get acquainted with everyone. Our professor, Whaley, was extremely patient and kind with all of us, trusting us to roam Japan ourselves (with a buddy) when we had our free time. Do not worry about having too much luggage with you, you will most likely get 2 free checked bags and a carry on, they also ship the luggage between hotels which is really comforting.

Japan itself was beautiful, I got to visit many wonderful Japanese shrines and castles praising kami and Buddhism, learning more and more as time went on with the trip. Getting accustomed to the culture was actually pretty easy, besides using chopsticks. Most shops open around 11pm to 12pm so, most of the time you will not be getting up real early to go anywhere, so do not worry about having to wake up at 6 am everyday. Everyone in Japan was so kind, greeting us wherever we went, same with our many wonderful tour guides. My personal favorite expedition was visiting the giant Gundam statue.

– Juance, SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC Japan: The Matcha Tea Ceremony

Japan 2024, Japan 2025, Japan 2026, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Study Abroad in Japan, Travel

The main reason I decided to take the program was that I read the book Memoirs of a Geisha, a book steeped in Japanese tradition. In it, the protagonist talks about her life as a geisha and how she had to learn many things to become the most renowned geisha in Gion. One of them was the tea ceremony. It wasn’t one of my goals, but my lack of interest in manga and anime led me to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in 2025.


The ceremony takes place in a seemingly modest tea house with a small door so anyone who wishes to experience it can do so, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Everyone drinks tea equally, irrespective of whether you are the emperor, a samurai, or an ordinary citizen. This is a sign of honor and peace for those participating in the ceremony. Matcha is a tea leaf that is crushed in its shade and prepared in a bowl with hot water to release its flavors; quick movements are made with the wrist, holding a traditional Japanese hand mixer made of bamboo.


Meditation is one of the most important pillars when preparing tea, as it allows for conscious and integrative development, both for the person preparing it and the person receiving it. This ceremony emphasizes respect, gratitude, and honor as the foundation of the tea-making process. Everything is carefully ceremonial, from when people enter the teahouse to when they are drinking; the person drinking the tea must make a sipping sound to communicate to the person preparing it how much they have enjoyed the infusion. Finally, the meditation extends to appreciating the art on the bowl used to enjoy the tea.

The Japanese are a grateful and respectful culture. They emphasize meditation and beliefs in their traditions. They showed us part of their love for tea and how it is not just an infusion; it is a lifestyle.

– Adriana, SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC Morocco: I cannot wait to go back!

Morocco 2025, News, Study Abroad, Travel

Hello, my name is Johana, and I have spent ten amazing days in Morocco. After an adventure-packed study abroad trip, I have found it difficult to pick a favorite place out of all the amazing cities we traveled to, but there is one thing that keeps sticking out to me. That would be the beautiful mountainous landscape of Morocco. Specifically, the Atlas Mountains in Ouarzazate. When people think of Morocco, they might think of the red city or the Sahara Desert, but Morocco is so much more than that. I found myself constantly in awe of the breathtaking and diverse landscape of this beautiful country in North Africa.

The Atlas Mountains in Ouarzazate are filled with winding roads and cool weather, as well as stunning views. Once we made our way to the Atlas Mountains, the weather was cool and windy. This was a big change compared to the dry desert heat we were getting used to. Just being able to look out to the mountains helped give more perspective to Morocco’s landscape, as well as the different cultures within Morocco. Morocco is an amazing country with so much to offer, and I cannot wait to go back.

– Johana, SPC Morocco Study Abroad Program, May 2025