All posts by Gloria Parrott

SPC Spain: I didn’t just study Spanish; I lived it!

Travel

My trip to Salamanca, Spain was an unforgettable blend of culture, language, and connection. I stayed with a warm, welcoming host family originally from Peru, and my host madre was an incredible cook whose meals—ranging from flavorful stews to traditional Peruvian dishes—became the heart of our daily conversations. Living with them gave me a unique blend of Spanish and Peruvian culture which helped me grow more confident in my Spanish through everyday interactions. Exploring Salamanca’s iconic Plaza Mayor, I felt the rhythm of the city—from its golden glow at night to the lively cafés in the morning. I was awed by the towering cathedrals, especially the panoramic view from the towers, and deeply moved by the sense of history that echoed through the stone streets.

Food was another highlight—various jamons, hornado, vino de roja and, of course, plenty of churros con chocolate made every day a delicious adventure. But more than the sights and meals, it was the immersion that shaped me most. I didn’t just study Spanish; I lived it. Being surrounded by the language, people, and culture made it all feel real and personal. Salamanca gave me not only beautiful memories but also the motivation to keep traveling and studying Spanish. It reminded me that learning a language isn’t only about grammar—it’s about people, stories, and connections.

– Austin , SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2025

SPC Spain: I’ll carry it with me for the rest of my life.

Travel

The three weeks I spent abroad in Spain were unforgettable and truly amazing. I’m incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to travel abroad, experiencing all the places I visited, learning from the things I encountered, and meeting the people I met. The program was jam-packed with activities that immersed us in the language and culture of Spain. Our classes were taught in Spanish, we talked with our host families in Spanish, and we interacted with strangers in Spanish.

The first couple of days were a bit overwhelming in that regard, considering all the new things that were all happening at the same time, but from the first week onward, everything clicked into place. Both my verbal communication and comprehension in Spanish have improved drastically. Our host family was amazing; they were warm, welcoming, and encouraged both me and my friend (with whom I was bunking) to speak Spanish. In addition, I was able to talk to students from France and Germany and compare and contrast the way of life between the US and their countries. Spending time just talking to the host family after meals was incredibly rewarding. It was great to be able to utilize what we learned in class.

The activities! Essentially every day we had an activity either before or after class that gave us a small glimpse into the history and culture of Spain. We danced, visited grand cathedrals, explored neighborhoods, and more. After the first week, I was amazed at how much we had done and seen in just one week. One thing I loved about Salamanca (and miss) was the walkability of the city. I loved walking everywhere and seeing all the beautiful architecture; the intricate facades of the buildings, the cobbled roads, and the glow of the buildings at night made walking and exploring the city really enjoyable. Oh, and walking we did. Lots of it.

Another thing we did lots of was eat ham. Ham chips, ham croquettes, ham ham ham. The abundance of ham in meals was a culture shock for me. On top of the daily activities, we also had excursions on the weekends. We visited Segovia where we saw the Alcázar de Segovia and a Roman aqueduct that’s almost 2000 years old; Avila, where we walked on the walls surrounding the city; La Peña de Francia, with breathtaking views; Alberca, a beautiful small town; San Sebastian, with the mixed people and architecture; and finally Biarritz, for the beach. On this trip, I experienced so many new things, met great people, saw amazing places, and learned so so much. I can’t emphasize enough how much this trip meant to me and how I’ll carry it with me for the rest of my life.

Thank you to all the people who made this trip possible. Thank you, SPC!

– Kai , SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2025

SPC Spain: Unforgettable!

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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

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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!

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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

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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!

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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!

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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

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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!

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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