Study Abroad Ambassadors

Jessica Hampton: *Global UNI 101: Explorations in Costa Rica – Short-Term Fall

The geographical and natural wonders of Costa Rica allow students the opportunity to try things such as ziplining, snorkeling, white water tubing, horseback riding, and many other amazing experiences that they may not get to do at home. The most enriching part of my study abroad experience was being able to visit a family who taught my class how to make tortillas and pottery from hand. Costa Rica held a simplistic and natural beauty that is becoming so rare to find other places in the world. My favorite experience in Costa Rica was hiking the Ricon de la Vieja National Park, and being able to see the boiling mud pits, natural hot springs, and the abundance of wildlife such as several species of monkeys, toucans, and various plants. After the tour of the mountain, we got to hike down to a waterfall and jump into the ice-cold water. It was so surreal and beautiful to see the vastly different forms of natural wonders this single park had to offer. 

Alexa Anne Bishop: *Global UNI 101- Adventures in Costa Rica - Short-Term Fall

For my first study abroad experience, I decided to do a short-term study abroad program with my freshman UNI class to Costa Rica. The most enriching part of this experience for me was ziplining nearly 700 feet in the air through the mountains of Costa Rica. Though I could barely breathe as I flew down, the picturesque view before me was utterly breathtaking and incomparable. UNCW's study abroad program gave me this; the opportunity to do something I otherwise never would've had access to.

Sarah Kelly: *Global UNI 101- Adventures in Costa Rica - Short-Term Fall

When I visited Costa Rica over winter break this past semester, I got to experience the natural beauty of the country and indulge in some of the country's agricultural specialties during both a chocolate and a coffee tour. My experience, specifically, was so enriching because I had never been out of the country, and we got to do so much in a short amount of time, including salsa dancing, tree climbing, and tasting authentic Costa Rican cuisine. My favorite experience, though, had to be the zip lining over the mountains and rainforest of San Carlos. It was like nothing I've ever experienced.

Peyton Purvis: *Global UNI 101- Adventures in Costa Rica - Short-Term Fall

Studying abroad in Costa Rica was a life-changing adventure that I know I will tell my children about someday. I immersed myself in the culture, experienced a new language (Spanish), and explored picturesque landforms. The trip was packed with activities I will remember forever. I loved sitting in the hot springs, trying unique fruits, and zip-lining through the rainforest. One of the highlights was spotting a kinkajou on a night hike. I was in awe of this new wildlife. Zip-lining was 100% my favorite experience. I am thrilled to say I conquered my fear of heights!

Christian Wilson: *Global UNI 101- Adventures in Costa Rica - Short-Term Fall

Costa Rica is home to diverse plants and wildlife, making the scenery breathtaking and extremely unique. One of our hotels in the program was in the clouds, and when the clouds cleared it gave us stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Arenal. One of my favorite memories was zip lining over the cloud forest and eating fresh fruits across the country. From swimming in a river on the first day to almost climbing up the inside of a tree, each adventure encouraged me to embrace expanding my horizons and helped me develop into a more adventurous and open-minded individual.

Kaylise Buckner: *Global UNI 101- Adventures in Costa Rica - Short-Term Fall

I chose a short-term trip to Costa Rica with my UNI 101 class because I knew it would cultivate lasting friendships and help me connect with people my freshman year. All of the experiences were so much fun, but my favorite was our trip to a local Women's Co-op. Hearing the story of how it came to be, and the cultural importance was eye-opening. My short time abroad pushed me beyond my comfort zone, taught me the power of adaptability, and inspired me to become a more engaged global citizen.

Sydney Ross: *Global UNI 101- Adventures in Costa Rica - Short-Term Fall

Studying abroad in Costa Rica is one of the best decisions I have ever made. Costa Rica is filled with beautiful scenery, a plenitude of fresh fruits, and wildlife you will not be able to see in America. While abroad, I had the privilege to zip line, raft down the Sarapiqui River, take Latin dancing classes, hike near a volcano, and try Costa Rican coffee and chocolate. Another experience I will never forget is seeing a mother and baby sloth in a tree. I will forever be grateful for the memories and friendships I gained through this program!

Luke Donleycott: *Kansai Gaidai University - Fall

I decided to study abroad in Osaka, Japan because I had a strong desire to improve my language skills and immerse myself in the culture. I chose to study in the Kansai Region because many of the Japanese friends I have made at UNCW come from there. My favorite place was the Okonomiyaki restaurant I found on the second week of classes, where I became a regular and on my last weekend had a going away party thrown for me by the owners. I also loved using the public transportation system, and I will never forget taking the bullet train for the first time. I also got to visit the 17th century Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture, where I was able to see Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in all of Japan. If I could only offer one piece of advice for students going abroad for a semester or longer, take the time to slow down, go out for dinner, get some drinks and become a regular somewhere. Sightseeing is great, but few get the opportunity to truly live in a different culture.

Molly Melito: *Buddhism and Sustainability in Thailand - Short-Term Spring

Studying abroad in Thailand allowed me to experience an entirely new culture and immerse myself in a place that offered many opportunitys for personal growth. I learned to accept and adapt in difficult situations, become a better problem solver, and stay calm under stress. Traveling to Thailand was definantly outside my comfort zone, but it allowed me to discover Asia's culture, beauty, and diversity, which I could never experience elsewhere. My favorite activity was visiting the Elephant Sanctuary, where we fed, washed, and swam with elephants. This trip broadened my horizons and helped me appreciate the differences and similarities between people worldwide.

Meah Walsh: UK: *University of Surrey - Spring 

I chose to study abroad at the University of Surrey because of the school's proximity to London, its courses, and the accessible travel within Europe. As a business major, Surrey's business school fit well with the classes I needed to take, and all of my professors and the department were very welcoming and supportive of me and the other exchange students. Being a short train ride from central London was one of the most enriching parts of my experience abroad, as it allowed me to experience more of the city, which ended up being my favorite place (and ideal post-grad city)! Outside of the UK, my favorite experience was backpacking with my friends for 15 days during spring break in Croatia, Italy, and Spain. In addition to cultural understanding, living internationally for an entire semester had a significant impact on my independence and sense of self. Although it seems scary at first, I (and you) can come away with new, life-long best friends you never would have met otherwise! 

Perry Brooks: Ireland: *Maynooth University - Spring  

What I loved most about Ireland was being in a place that was so rich in history and having the opportunity to experience these sites through my curriculum. In my time in Ireland, I was able to make connections with people from all over the world, bringing about future opportunities to explore new places. I got out of my comfort zone while traveling abroad, which instilled newfound confidence in many aspects of my life. 

Jayden Holloway: *Mythology and Harry Potter: London - Short-Term Spring 

I studied abroad in London so I could experience how different types of art influence the culture there. Walking around London and seeing the amazing architecture was a fantastic experience. Visiting Stonehenge ended up being one of my favorite parts of the trip—being able to go inside during sunset was so beautiful and an experience I will never forget. Before going abroad, I had never seen a play, and the only musicals I had seen were on TV. However, seeing live theatre made me realize how much I love theatre. This trip has made me eager to travel even more in the future. 

Lillie Swindle: The NC Consortium Program (NC in Paris) - Fall

I decided to study in Paris, France with NC in Paris to enrich my academic and life experience. Through this program I was introduced and immersed into a new world of culture, which allowed for me to develop my sense of self and opinions on global issues. In addition, my French language skills developed exponentially. My favorite experience in Paris was watching a ballet at the Opera Garnier. I was fortunate to travel a good amount during my trip. I went to cities in France including Montpellier, Nice, and Strasbourg, as well as countries including Ireland, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. My experiences with NC in Paris have forever shaped me to be an independent, resilient person with a love for travel and experiencing new cultures.

Katie Mazzella: AIFS Abroad in Florence - Fall

Living in Italy for three months was an incredible privilege, and I loved immersing myself in the culture and adapting to the Italian lifestyle. My favorite spot in Florence was Piazzale Michelangelo, where you can watch the beautiful sunset over the city. Afterward, enjoying a brick oven pizza made with fresh, natural ingredients was unforgettable. By the end, Florence felt like home, and I didn’t want to leave. The experience taught me independence, adaptability, and how to enjoy the moment. I’d go back in a heartbeat!

Paige Holmes: AIFS Abroad in Athens, Greece - Fall 

I chose to study abroad in Greece because it is a place where I have always dreamed of going. So I decided, why not go for a whole semester? The ability to walk around Athens and see the Parthenon almost every day was a surreal experience that I will never forget. The amount of history within the country is unimaginable, and the opportunity to be able to learn about it first-hand was truly amazing. Greece was such a magical place and I now have memories that will last me a lifetime! Through my time abroad, I was given the opportunity to expand my knowledge about the world in a way that a classroom alone would never be able to provide!

Nia Kane: Discover with WorldStrides: Valencia: Health and Natural Sciences - Spring  

I studied abroad in Valencia, Spain for a semester. I picked Spain because it was a beautiful country, and I knew I could travel throughout Europe from there. Traveling opened my eyes to many cultures, and I loved trying all the food and seeing the famous monuments. One of the most enriching experiences was the festival Fallas in Valencia. This festival is practically for a month, and they build elaborate structures made of wood, cork or paper mâché and burn them on a specific date. It was amazing to see it all! My favorite food was paella and the 1-euro TKO tacos. We had a paella making class with the program. We were shown the grounds of the fields where all the ingredients were grown, then cooked and danced, ending with a meal! I would recommend studying abroad to anyone! 

Livia Amstalden: *Valencia – Summer I 

The most enriching aspects of my study abroad experience were living with a host family in Spain for one month and being able to explore and engage in cultural experiences, not only in Valencia but also in other parts of Spain. I really enjoyed being able to explore the city of Valencia with a group of students from UNCW who quickly became my friends. The city has everything from a historic downtown, modern architecture in the City of Arts & Sciences, and the beach. Having Valencia as a home base allowed me to explore the city but also access other parts of Spain and take trips over the weekends and be exposed to even more stunning architecture, amazing food, and culture. 

Lilly Hull: *Valencia - Summer I

I found the architecture and streets of Valencia to be beautiful. I lived with a host family and had a roommate and I loved it. Getting to eat dinner and experience new types of cuisines was amazing, along with getting to practice my Spanish in an environment I was more comfortable in. I got to try freshly made Spanish dishes and experience what it is like to be living there as a local. I found myself often in the city center where I would go to different restaurants and shops along with listen to music at small concerts hosted.

Sierrah Blackwell: *Macquarie University - Fall

My time at Macquarie University in Sydney is an experience I wouldn’t trade for the world. Yes, it’s called ‘study abroad,’ but the memories and life lessons are what I cherish most. I formed amazing friendships and learned more about myself than ever before. I checked many things off my bucket list: the Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, a trip to Fiji, and Australia Zoo (sadly no Robert Irwin). But my favorite place was the small beach town of Coffs Harbour. Coffs offered me a familiar escape that reminded me of Wilmington. Even when I did get homesick, the Aussies always surrounded me with a warm welcome. I am excited to take Australia’s congeniality and spread it around UNCW’s campus so that students will have the same far-out experience I had. Being an Environmental Science major, I also found it encouraging to find that most everyone there takes conservation so seriously, giving me hope for our future. I look forward to returning to Australia one day!

Chaylen Hines: *Macquarie University - Fall

I decided to Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia in order to learn how to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations. Flying 10,000 miles from home knowing I wouldn't return for many months was a terrifying thought, and yet it ended up being the most valuable experience of my life. I was able to explore Sydney and Northern Australia, while visiting neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and New Zealand, all of which I loved. I gained new friends from all over the world, including the United States, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, Nigeria, Thailand, Zimbabwe, England, and Mexico. Through studying abroad, education became more than a classroom, it was visiting the American War Museum in Vietnam, scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef, or learning about global politics through the eyes of another country. Studying abroad not only gave me more knowledge, but also insight, empathy, compassion, bravery, and the confidence to go alone, not knowing I’d come home with more than I had before. 

Avigail Friedel: *Queensland University of Technology - Fall

I chose to study abroad at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia, because I wanted to experience my major in a more personal and immersive academic setting while living in a country very different from what I was used to. Spending a semester abroad challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and adapt to a new lifestyle, university system, and culture, helping me grow both academically and personally. As one of the most ecologically diverse countries I have ever visited, it's difficult to choose just one favorite place, but the Whitsundays, Noosa Heads, and Stradbroke Island really stood out to me. The natural beauty of each location was truly unforgettable. One of my favorite everyday discoveries was Australia’s coffee culture, which quickly became part of my daily routine. As an Exercise Science major, I was inspired by the country’s strong emphasis on an active, outdoor, and healthy lifestyle. Studying abroad at QUT gave me a new perspective I carry forward in my studies.