Quotes from Past Students

---

Student teaching abroad was a once in a lifetime experience! It was one of the best decisions I could have ever made to influence my education and career. I will admit there were struggles along the way but once overseas in Sweden I could not have asked for a better way to spend the last four weeks of my student teaching! Being exposed to such a diverse classroom and many unique ways of teaching will not only benefit me but my future students as well! - Nikki Meyer

"This was a great opportunity to see what a classroom is like in another country. I learned a lot that I will be able to take back to my classroom in America." - Kristen Hughson

Student teaching in Barcelona, Spain was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I recommend it to all those pursuing a teaching degree at WKU. The schools in Barcelona are very different, and being there gives you the chance to see education from another perspective, to adopt the strengths of each culture and to gain a deeper understanding of your students' cultural backgrounds. Being able to understand and respect your students is one of the most integral parts of teaching, and teaching abroad with an open mind allows you that opportunity. - Ashley Brown

Teaching abroad was an unbelievably rewarding experience that has changed the way I view education and teaching for the better. - Katie-Rose

It is a strange feeling to be so far away from home, yet feel like you are right where you’re supposed to be. I learned that life begins at the end of my comfort zone. I had to put down the map, and get lost. Through this experience, I was able to taste different cultures (literally and metaphorically), evolve as a teacher, and grow in my relationship with Christ. I would encourage everyone to study abroad; don’t let fears hold you back. You may miss the people you leave behind, but you will never miss the person you were before your experience abroad. -Emily Evanko

Being able to go on a study abroad trip is one of the best things you can do for yourself. I went to Belize and it was the most amazing experience and adventure I have ever had in my entire life. I opened up and grew as an individual. When going abroad, you become a new person and are a lot closer to discovering yourself. I did so many activities and went on so many adventures that I would never dare to do back home. I gained a lot of confidence in myself and my teaching skills as well as realized that I can do anything that I set my mind to; no matter what the next adventure entails. -Carly Weber

Student teaching in Barcelona, Spain and staying with a host family was a once in a lifetime opportunity for me. It allowed me to grow personally and professionally as a teacher. I will definitely visit Barcelona again one day! -Alicia DiTommaso

"My time in Italy was a whirlwind of excitement that didn't cease from the moment I arrived in Milan to the moment I touched down again in America. The opportunity to teach in classrooms so different from the American classrooms I have always known was incomparable and opened my eyes to the various ways that students all around the world learn. I not only grew in the classroom, but also as a person. The Italian culture is so rich and deep in religion, art, and beauty. From the Colosseum to the Leaning Tower of Pisa to taking a gondola ride in Venice, my experiences in Italy are some that will always resonate in my mind as the best experiences of my life." - Lauren White

"An experience of a lifetime!! A simple way to explain it. I am so blessed to have had this opportunity to finish my student teaching in Barcelona, Spain. I experienced a whole new lifestyle, a different education system, and got to travel to experience new parts of the world. It has been simply amazing and I would recommend it to any student, anytime!! Thanks for this opportunity WKU!" – Abby Browning

Living with my family in Spain was total emersion and life changing. Not only did they show me the sights of Barcelona; they also included me in their daily routine and practices. Even though we were from different parts of the world, I quickly realized that we had a lot in common! I have family in Spain for life. –Rachel Bowen