SPC student, Samantha Cameron, shares her experience in Spain with St. Petersburg College after receiving a study abroad scholarship:
“My experience in Salamanca has been nothing less than spectacular. I never imagined I would see such beauty. Admittedly, I was very nervous about traveling so far but the study abroad team has made the transition smooth and painless. I’ve just completed day five and I already feel at home. I can’t speak for everyone, but this has been an important part of the process for me. The instructors at Estudio Sampere, specifically Pedro and Maria, are WONDERFUL. They’re funny, helpful, and go out of their way to make the students feel welcome and “OK” wherever they might be in their studies. They’re anxious to help seem to take my success as personal as I do.
As far as the landscape and the people of Salamaca, they’ve been kind, hospitable, and patient. The food is incredible and I look forward to trying something new every day. Being here during the World Cup and the Festival of Lights is amazing. The tour of the cathedrals makes me feel as though I could spend years here and never truly see everything. It’s magical.
I have to be honest and say there have been moments of adjusting. The traveling is exhausting and it is very important to take care of yourself and to know your limits. However, my house mom, Carmen, has been very helpful. I keep open, honest, and constant communication with my professors to help ease the adjustment. In other words, being so far from home and in a new, foreign place, it’s easy to feel alienated and lost…but it’s not necessary! The thing I’ve constantly reminded myself in times of stress or confusion is to be honest and talk with someone. I know that everyone here is rooting for my success and will do whatever it takes to make sure I have a once in a lifetime experience. I am grateful for the SPC study abroad program for giving me this!”-Samantha Cameron, SPC student, Spain 2018
Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!
blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-341-4731 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu