Not every Eureka student’s semester begins in the same place, or even the same country. For some, the semester starts many miles away in a new city, surrounded by new people and immersed in a new culture, all made possible with Eureka’s accessibility to the Study abroad program, which allows students to broaden their views in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.
Some students are preparing for an exciting semester abroad in the upcoming spring. Students leaving include Faythe Carlson and Sasha Troxell, who will be heading to Costa Rica for their studies. Both students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture, language, and natural beauty of the country while continuing their coursework. It is Troxell’s first time going abroad and when asked more specifically about her feelings on going abroad, she wrote, “I am very excited for the opportunity to travel and to be immersed in a culture for as long as I will be, but I’m sure the homesickness will kick in at some point while I’m down there.”
At the same time, other students are returning from their own journeys abroad. Madeline Baldwin, Kateland Williams, and Mackinzey Level all traveled to London over the summer for the purpose of studying art. In an interview with Baldwin, she spoke on how the trip affected her, saying: “I think I really gained experience as an adult—having to figure things out in another country. Even with the buddy system, we were still responsible for navigating everything on our own.”
Specific experiences Baldwin had she listed included opportunities she never thought she’d have. “I saw some amazing pieces of art I never thought I’d see in my lifetime. My favorite was Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, but I also got to see original works by Banksy. That was incredible,” Baldwin said.
Stories like this display the boldness of our Eureka students, and their ability to adapt and meet their goals.
Another student, senior Olivia Hardin-Nieri, recently traveled to Madrid, Spain as part of the Disciples of Christ Leadership Scholarship Program. Reflecting on her time abroad, she wrote, “Culturally. it is vastly different from anywhere I have journeyed before. I have a greater appreciation for the dynamics of public transportation, the attitude of intentional life enjoyment, and the methods of artistic expression and preservation.”
Hardin-Nieri went on to describe visiting world-renowned art museums such as The Reina Sofía and Museo del Prado, calling her time with Picasso’s Guernica and Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights “astounding” and “incredible.”
While possibly being a new experience, studying abroad also helps one in decorating a student’s degree and achieving a micro-credential for graduation. This comes in the form of the new badge system, making it not only an adventure but also a practical step toward graduation. Dr. Harlin encourages students to take advantage of the opportunity, saying: “Students who come back from study abroad come back more confident and just a little bit more mature. I do think that it is a really valuable experience that helps you really depend on yourself.”.
To students feeling as though the financial burden is too heavy, there is still a way. Eureka offers much in the way of help in achieving your dream. When asked on how Eureka can feasibly help students Dr. Harlin said: “I am here to help you find a program, to help you apply to that program, to walk you through all of the funding opportunities that are available… to make sure that you know how to do things like get your passport and get a visa if you need that kind of stuff. I help with that.”.
For students who may feel uncertain or nervous about taking the leap to study abroad, Eureka emphasizes that it’s a normal part of the journey. Adjusting to a new environment, navigating unfamiliar cities, or even dealing with homesickness are challenges many students mention. Yet, those same challenges often become the most rewarding parts of the experience, giving students a sense of independence and confidence that lasts long after they return home. When asked what she would say to students on the fence towards studying abroad, Baldwin said: “I would say to just go, to just do it… it was so worth it because there, I don’t think that there will ever be an opportunity like that in my life.”
Dr. Harlin agrees on this sentiment, saying, “Come tell me what you’re worried about, because I could talk through it with you, and I can probably help you find the program that is gonna work for you.” Her words highlight the individualized support students receive when navigating study abroad, no matter their concerns or challenges. This flexibility shows how Eureka works to make global experiences accessible, as seen in [this story].
For students interested in studying abroad, the Study Abroad Office provides resources, program options, and guidance throughout the application process. Whether it’s Europe, Asia, or another corner of the globe, the opportunity to live and learn internationally is open to all who are willing to take the leap.
