All posts by Gloria Parrott

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

SPC Morocco: Eternally grateful for the opportunity

Morocco 2025, Study Abroad, Travel

The breathtaking landscapes, intricate architecture, and rich culture and history of Morocco were among the factors contributing to my desire to travel to the country. However, because of a combination of antiquated ideas about the way women are treated in the MENA region (Middle East and Northern Africa), combined with my own self-limiting beliefs, I thought it would not be possible to visit Morocco as a solo traveler. When I initially applied to SPC’s study abroad program to visit the country, I did so because I thought traveling with a group would be the only way to visit safely.

By experiencing Morocco through my own eyes, not only were Western mythologies of an antiquated, repressive anti-women culture dispelled—but so were many mythologies I had believed about my own inner world and the outer world at large. Firstly, I think it is very important to note that even walking outside alone with another girl my age at night, I felt safer in Casablanca than I do in St. Petersburg after dark. Most importantly though, in the absence of an explicit danger, I learned that I possess the courage within myself to step outside of my comfort zone, try new things, make connections, and expand my heart and mind in ways I did not previously know were possible. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity studying abroad provided me to see beyond my little world here at home .

– Naiyah, SPC Morocco Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC Japan: I absolutely loved it.

Japan 2024, Japan 2025, Japan 2026, News, Study Abroad, Travel

Hello, my name is Aiden. I went to Japan with SPC’s International program in 2025, and I absolutely loved it. We did so much, went to so many cities, and learned new stuff. It was also great getting to know everyone else who joined me on the trip and making friends with them. In total, we were there for 10 days and went to 6 towns and cities, including everything in between them.

I had some things in particular I liked. Kyoto and Tokyo were my favorite cities to visit. I enjoyed how both of them blended Japan’s traditional culture and values, along with their modern culture with anime and video games. We went to a countless number of shrines, castles, and temples to learn so much about Buddhism and Shintoism, and more impactfully, it gave all of us the ability to think and see things more worldly.

I have to thank everyone who gave me the opportunity to make it. I worked at my job for eight months to afford this. I also thank SPC themselves for not only giving me the ability to go to this, but also giving me a scholarship to help pay as well. If I ever get the ability to do another study abroad program, I’ll definitely take the opportunity.

– Aiden, SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2025

Marrakech: A City Packed with History and Culture

Morocco 2025, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

Getting lost in Marrakech Medina’s maze-like streets is an adventure. You’ll walk through narrow lanes packed with shops selling everything from bright lamps and leather bags to colorful spices and woven rugs. Remember to bargain when you shop, sellers expect it, so offer less than the asking price! Don’t miss seeing the beautiful Bahia Palace with its peaceful courtyards and detailed tilework. Nearby is the impressive Ben Youssef Madrassa, an old Islamic school where you can admire the ancient carved wood and stucco walls. Look up often to see the tall Koutoubia Mosque, a medieval-age wonder towering over the city; it’s a famous landmark you can spot from many places. Wandering here lets you feel the Medina’s exciting energy.

As the sun sets, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the heart of the Medina. By day it’s busy, but at night it completely transforms! Hundreds of small food stalls light up, filling the air with delicious smells of grilled meats, rare spices, and sweet treats. You can try local
snacks like tasty kebabs or lamb tagine. The square buzzes with performers, musicians playing, storytellers gathering crowds, and sometimes you might see snake charmers . Look towards the Koutoubia Mosque; its minaret looks especially beautiful lit up against the dark sky. Ending your day here, surrounded by the sounds, smells, and sights, is an unforgettable experience of Marrakech at night. It’s the perfect place for a true Moroccan adventure.

– Noah, SPC Morocco Study Abroad Program, May 2025

SPC England: London is a city that I have fallen in love with!

England 2023, England 2025, Scholarships, Study Abroad, Travel

I have to admit, the beginning of the trip I was a dissociative mess. The plane was filled with people, I was squished between two men who snored. I was relieved when we finally landed, only to be stuck on a warm bus for three hours. We arrived at the hotel, had time to place our suitcases in a storeroom and dash to meet the other group for dinner. I knew, as we were speed walking to the restaurant, that this trip would be filled with plans unraveling. I could not have been more happy.
The reason as to why I was not anxious as I explored a unfamiliar country and why the chaos was pleasing, was the people I traveled with. My Professors, my fellow SPC classmates and the British tour guides, made this trip feel like a wonderful dream. The group I traveled with were filled with lively personalities, that made even a introvert like me feel comfortable and accepted. There was never one moment where I had felt left out of left behind.

Our tour guides had such lovely humor as well. One joke I will never forget was with the tour guide showing us Tower of London. He was mentioning how posh a young boys school was. It was little moments like these that made the trip for me. Yes; witnessing various different cultures, just walking down Whitechapel Rd (where our hotel resided) and the architecture of hundred year-old buildings that would make any architect envious, was thrilling. However, the discussions I shared with my classmates, Professors, and our main guide Simon are discussions I could never and will never forget. London is a city that I have fallen in love with, I have the people I met to thank for that.

-Caley, SPC England Study Abroad Program, May 2025