Category: Spring Semester

Submitted by Sydney Ballenger on the 2024 Spring semester program in Rome, Italy…

Week two of my semester in Rome has been a week of adjustment. Classes began on Monday and I felt like a freshman again as I followed my google maps directions to locate each of my classes on time. Several of the classes I am taking this semester are unique to Rome, including an art history course titled “Cities, Towns, and Villas: Rome, Ostia, Pompeii” and a sociology course titled “Rome: Modern City”. Both classes take place on site, meaning each class meeting is in a different location around Rome, specifically selected to emphasize the content of the lesson for that day. I am also taking an introductory Italian course, hoping to learn enough Italian to get around the city without having to rely on google translate. 

Outside of school, I’ve spent my time meeting people in my program, trying cafes and gelaterias around Trastevere, and making weekend travel plans with my roommates and new friends. I also began running every morning, a daily practice I took up back home and was looking forward to implementing here. In Rome, my run is along the Tiber riverwalk, going past the oldest bridge still existing in Rome (Ponte Fabricio), and turning around outside the walls of Vatican City. Running is usually my favorite way to explore a new place and it has been no different here. I believe that bringing elements of my routine from home– running– and implementing them into my daily routine here has helped me adjust to my new environment and feel like Rome is my home for the semester. (Submitted January 19, 2024)

Submitted by Maxwell Poruban on the 2024 Spring semester program in Granada, Spain…

Week two of my semester in Granada has been a week of settling in, meeting new people, and digging into my course work. The group of students from the University of Delaware, and several others, is truly excellent and I have enjoyed getting to know everyone. While we are all of different backgrounds and majors, as well as having different interests and objectives for our program. However, we have been drawn together by this program and have begun to face challenges as a team. Many of us attended the “Intercambio Lingüistico” that was organized by the University of Granada’s Center for Modern Languages team. Here I was paired up with native Spanish speakers and learners in a classic Spanish bar. As I met new friends, I enjoyed a tapa of ensalada rusa while spending a few hours chatting and learning. I found holding a conversation in Spanish for this long to be challenging, but I was rewarded with new friends and many local recommendations. 

This week our intensive Language and Culture continued and we marked our halfway point by taking our second midterm. Like almost everything else, this class has been hard but worth the effort. Our professor is demanding, but aptly, patiently, and passionately answers our questions. I highly recommend this program and intensive course to anyone interested in improving their language skills. 

Finally, my roommates and I climbed the hill of the Alhambra to visit the Carmen de los Mártires, a 19th century Carmen style house with extensive public gardens. A carmen is both a Spanish name and a word derived from Arabic that signifies: garden. These houses have four walls with a patio in the center, often with a fountain or water source. Carmen de los Mártires offers spectacular views of Granada, charming architecture, and voracious peacocks; making the hike a trip worth taking.  (Submitted January 18, 2024)

Submitted by Samantha Jennings on the 2024 Spring semester program in Copenhagen, Denmark…

I began my 2024 with a journey to Copenhagen, Denmark on the DIS Copenhagen Study Abroad Program. I was extremely excited and nervous because I didn’t know much about the cities, the language, or the culture of Denmark. I primarily chose the DIS program because of the variety of courses offered and the experiential learning component that is emphasized on the program. So, arriving in Copenhagen was a scary unknown lying ahead of me. However, as I explored the city I found that Copenhagen is very similar to the place that I call home. From the flowing water in the canal to the Kinder Chocolate in the grocery stores and the soft, untouched snow on the ground, there was a hint of something familiar in the air. Instead of choosing to stress about homesickness or a new living environment, I instead began to go for walks both to gain knowledge about the city as well as to take my mind off of the stresses of studying abroad. Soon after, other students on my program began to join me on these walks. What began as a calming strategy soon became a way to make new friends with similar interests and explore our new home! I encourage anyone who may feel homesick or out-of-place while abroad to find a friend and go explore, you never know what friendships, experiences, and sights lie ahead! (Submitted January 18, 2024)

Submitted by Juliana Monticello on the 2024 Spring semester program in Rome, Italy…

I have officially been in Rome, Italy for one week and I feel like so much has happened  already. I will be spending the next four months living in this city full of history and culture. On  my walk to class, I find a new hidden gem every day. There is so much to see, and I can’t wait to  explore all of it. But in the first week, some of the highlights included the Spanish Steps,  Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Church di Saint Ignazio of Loyola.  

The Spanish Steps were absolutely breathtaking. The grand staircase was even bigger  than I had imagined. The panoramic view from the top felt like I was looking at a postcard. The  Piazza di Spagna below was busy with tourists and locals alike exploring, walking, and shopping.  

Not too far from the steps was the Pantheon. I was in awe of the oculus, which lets  sunlight shine into the dome. The illuminated interior was stunning, and I was fascinated by the  ancient Roman engineering that created this masterpiece.  

The Trevi Fountain was bustling with people, but nonetheless it was mesmerizing. The  statues of mythological figures amazed me as to how someone could create such a realistic and  detailed work out of marble. And of course, I tossed a coin over my shoulder into the pool of  water to ensure my return to Rome. 

The final of my favorite sites was the Church of Sant’Ignazio of Loyola. This roman gem is  full Baroque art and architecture. It features intricate frescoes and a spectacular dome. A friend  and I spent nearly an hour there because there was so much to see. Every time I turned I  noticed a new detail. The church had an otherworldly atmosphere that made it feel like it  existed outside of time. 

As the week comes to a close, I find myself fascinated by the fact that I am living in a city  so rich in history. The Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Sant’Ignazio di Loyola’s  church stand as witnesses to the city’s enduring legacy, and I am eager to explore everything Rome has to offer! (Submitted January 16, 2024)

Submitted by Elizabeth Mitchell on the 2024 Spring semester program in Paris, France…

From the moment I landed in Paris a week ago, it was clear that there was a special buzz in the city, and throughout my first seven days here it is clear what this buzz is all about. The summer 2024 Olympics are being held in Paris and the preparations being made are exciting and extravagant. They already have one of the tourist centers, Hotel de ville, decked out in Paris 2024 advertisements. There is Olympics merchandise being sold across the city, and even a countdown to the opening ceremony outside the Eiffel Tower. There are even some less obvious signs of the Olympics coming. On my first Friday in Paris, my new roommates and I climbed the Eiffel Tower, but the top floor was closed. The second floor that we were able to get to was swarming with Eiffel Tower engineers who all seemed to be working on the top level which was closed. It is rumored they are preparing the Eiffel Tower for a special opening ceremony surprise, which is why the top will be closed for so long. It has been a thrill to see all of these preparations being made even though I will not be here during the games. I feel like I am getting to experience two magnificent things at one time, Paris and the Games. I am excited to continue to watch preparations being made and even more excited to watch the games later this year. (Submitted January 15, 2024)

Submitted by Zoë Leshock on the 2024 Spring semester program in Athens, Greece…

The first week of my semester a American College of Greece in Agia Paraskevi and Athens has been a dynamic mix of orientation, suburban exploration, and now, the official start of classes. Here’s a snapshot of the latest adventures:

Day 1: Orientation and Campus Tour

The week began with an informative orientation presentation, providing a comprehensive overview of student life and what to expect in the upcoming semester. Following that, a campus tour allowed me to familiarize myself with the scenic beauty of Agia Paraskevi’s hillside campus, setting the stage for the academic journey ahead.

Day 2: Suburban Vibes and Practical Errands

Exploring the suburban neighborhood and tackling practical tasks like grocery shopping characterized the second day. Immersing myself in the local community and everyday life made the transition to this new environment even more engaging.

Day 3: Roommate Connections and Movie Night

Casual bonding with roommates continued on day three with a laid-back movie night. While we watched the first Twilight movie (I had never seen it!!), we shared laughs and stories, creating a comfortable living space and laying the foundation for lasting friendships.

Day 4: Downtown Athens Exploration and Culinary Adventures

Venturing into busy downtown Athens offered a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. The day concluded with a traditional Greek dinner, treating our taste buds to a symphony of flavors that I can’t wait to taste all semester long.

Day 5: First Day of Classes and RA Pizza Night

The week reached its peak with the official commencement of classes. A singular class marked the start of my academic journey in Greece, and the day was complemented by a meet-the-RA event featuring everyone’s favorite—pizza. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow students, share excitement about the upcoming semester, and savor some delicious pizza.

As the week unfolds, both Agia Paraskevi and Athens continue to reveal their unique charms. From academic pursuits to cultural exploration, each day brings new opportunities for growth and connection. Here’s to a semester filled with learning, laughter, and memorable experiences in this Greek adventure a ACG.

The modern Olympic Stadium in Athens, View of the town at night from the top of ACG’s Campus, The Parthenon atop the Acropolis seen from Downtown Athens (Submitted January 15, 2024)

Submitted by Hannah Scheck on the 2024 Spring semester program in Sydney, Australia…

On January 14th, 2024, after months of anticipation, I finally arrived in Sydney, Australia. Representatives from Global Academic Ventures met us at the airport and took us on an unforgettable adventure. After 22 hours of seeing nothing but the interior of an airplane, I was ready for a change of scenery. We embarked on a lovely scenic ride around the gorgeous city of Sydney, saw our home for the next four months, then continued our journey to the beautiful botanical gardens. When we arrived, I was immediately in awe of the beauty of the nature around me and the stunning blue water. Then I looked up and had my breath taken away. For the first time, since wanting to come to Australia since I was in third grade, I am seeing the Sydney Opera House in person. It was beautiful. The whole day was beautiful. The weather was overcast, but the scenery made up for the weather. Not to mention the 70 degrees was a huge improvement from the 30 degrees I had left at home. The group of study abroad students and I continued to adventure around the city. I saw Darling Harbor, China town, and a tour of our campus. The adventure and tour of Sydney was a great way to allow me to get to know my fellow students. I believe that it was a perfect first day in this amazing country. I am looking forward to every moment and memory I will experience while being here for the next four months. I am so incredibly grateful for this experience. (Submitted January 14, 2024)

Submitted by Jason Rizzuto on the 2024 Spring semester program in Madrid, Spain…

Just like that, my first 7 days in a foreign, yet welcoming new habitat, have concluded. There have been moments of shock, feelings of warmth in new budding friendships, but most of all, excitement for what is yet to come. Although this is my second time studying abroad for a semester, there is quite literally nothing you can do to simmer the anticipation, and the wonder you feel upon landing in a new place. 

Something that stood out to me immediately, was the culture surrounding tapas. The picture I provided was right before my friends and myself wandered into a beautifully decorated, ornate “tapas bar”. I immediately was reminded of small gastropubs near my hometown in America, where singular plates could easily cost upwards of $30. I was truly floored when the delicious, handmade plates for a group of 4 totaled up to just about $35. The wallet-friendly, yet amazingly tasty experience welcomed me to a part of the culture that I had not yet experienced in Spain, and was an awesome way to kick off my journey. (January 14, 2024)