Every Study Abroad program is a transforming experience, but there is something special about a service trip. On Friday I found myself just soaking up the joy that comes from serving others. The focus is on empowering at risk girls. We are building a wall, teaching swimming, English, softball, math and bicycling. We have taken … Continue reading Service Learning in the Dominican Republic
Tips from the China 2016 Study Abroad group! Must,must,must have comfortable walking shoes! Those strappy sandals just won’t cut it. If you don’t bring the walking shoes, bring plenty of band aids. You’ll need them! Wear clothes that breathe, as AC is hard to come by throughout the day Either bring enough clothes to last … Continue reading Tips from the China 2016 Study Abroad group!
This is only the first day of classes in Spain and it has been a great experience. I was a bit apprehensive about traveling to a country that was so far away from home. After landing in Spain I was welcomed by the country. I arrived to Spain a few days before the program started … Continue reading Spain Study Abroad: Fantastic First Day
The Dominican Republic is rich of culture and breathtaking beauty. “Dios, Patria, Libertad.” What truly caught my eyes was the sense of community and trust within an area. People are socializing outside their houses, their doors are opened, and their smiles are warm. Despite the clear poverty, there is pride and joy in the community. … Continue reading Una Familia Grande – One Big Family
I’ve learned so much from the past couple of days. The Dominican culture has transformed my whole mentality of life. From the unfortunate neighborhoods to the reckless driving habits of the locals, I have come to learn just a little bit of the culture. Specifically, the first day really caused a culture shock I was … Continue reading An Important Lesson From the Dominican Republic
In Ethics, so many thinkers start with self-interest and hope to develop that into the interests of the community. As I watch and work, I think there might be a more interesting explanation. In an international conference of Buddhists, neurologists and psychologist (Goleman 2003), the Dalai Lama and Mattieu Ricard suggest that self-interest is not … Continue reading What is it about helping others that gives joy to the giver?
Hola! I’m currently sitting at the gate entrance in Miami for my flight to Madrid! I can honestly say that I am ready to go and excited for this study abroad opportunity, but I’m a little nervous for this 13 hour flight. I’ve been on a plane several times before, but only for 2-3 hours at … Continue reading Spain Pre-Departure!
Just a few days until a group of SPC students and their lead faculty Roxana Levin and co-faculty Osiris Albrech will depart the U.S. to travel to beautiful Spain. The three-week long intensive language program allows beginners to learn the language, and the more proficient ones to improve their language skills while emerging into the Spanish culture. … Continue reading Spain – The Final Countdown
Don’t take a hair dryer (you can request to borrow from the hotel)… also don’t take flat irons for your hair! Be sure your suitcase is around 35 pounds (not 50) in case you need to fly within India. Bring patience, openness, flexibility, strong legs and lungs, a desire to learn, and generous spirit. Spend … Continue reading Tips from the India 2016 Study Abroad group
Pack enough clothes but make sure to leave lots of room in your bags to bring stuff home. Save up more money than what you expect to spend. Do not expect things to go according to plans. Bring at least 1 or 2 towels. These countries are different, so it will be “shocking” on more … Continue reading Study Abroad Tips from the Australia 2016 students!