and Belgium : Testimonials (Barcelona)
The following program testimonial responses have been selected for publication by UGA StudyAway
Final Reflection Questions
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
I met a lot of wonderful friends and learned so many new things about food and how it's made and how it gets from farm to table.
— Julie Akins, Maymester 2018 |
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
The program was a great way to experience all of the unique food products that Italy has to offer.
— Sara Lipani, Maymester 2018 |
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
I thoroughly enjoyed this study-away experience compared to a traditional classroom setting because I feel like I learned a tremendous amount of information and also gained a very valuable hands-on experience. I was able to explore a different culture related to food and customs, and I feel like the immersion in the Italian culture gave me more insight than any classroom ever could. Dr. Paton and Dr. Cooper were great professors that facilitated our learning during the excursions and classwork we had.
— Teal Matthews, Maymester 2018 |
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
The Italian culture really values their food. The "classes" we had at a pasta factory, dairy factory and wine tasting was very educational and a fun experience. We learned about the Italian food culture by experiencing it first hand rather than sitting in a lecture hall learning about it second hand.
— Alyssa Paul, Maymester 2018 |
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
This trip really solidified my desire to travel and see the world and different cultures. It reminded me why I'm working so hard right now to set up a career that allows me to do so. I saw some of the most beautiful cities, met some of the coolest people, and saw ancient historical landmarks right in front of my face. Incredible.
— Madelyn Hansen, Maymester 2019 |
What were the most significant take-aways from your experience?
This program gave me the unique opportunity to experience the cultures of Greece and Italy through local foods. It was a fantastic way to become immersed in the diet of the region while comparing their foods to what we traditionally eat. My most significant take away is how moderation in the diet and a more active lifestyle allow Europeans to stay healthy and enjoy good food.
— Katherine Ward, Maymester 2019 |
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
I would definitely recommend that anyone considering this take the plunge and go on the trip!
— Julie Akins, Maymester 2018 |
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
I would tell someone considering to definitely try the program. It changed my life and by going with an open mind and being eager I took everything in and loved it .
— Amanda Frothingham, Maymester 2018 |
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
This is a great program for anyone interested in Italian cuisine and viewing the beautiful scenery of Italian cities and countryside!
— Sara Lipani, Maymester 2018 |
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
DO IT. You will take more away from this program than any classroom ever could. You will make friends with everyone in the program and learn so much while being immersed in a different country. Italy is amazing, and if I could do this program and I would. Make sure to do all the schoolwork prior to departure that way you can enjoy your free afternoons. Also, take advantage of every opportunity on this trip: eat, drink, and taste everything you can! Bring comfy shoes!
— Teal Matthews, Maymester 2018 |
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
If you have never been to Europe of out of the country consider it! It is a learning experience. You get exposed to different environments with different people, food and atmospheres. Now that I am back home I truly appreciate where I come now that I have seen another part of the world. I would definitely make this trip again!
— Alyssa Paul, Maymester 2018 |
What are your words of advice to students considering this program?
Do it! Everything we did was interesting and relevant. You will have the trip of a lifetime getting class credit by just seeing incredible places and eating delicious foods! Learning in this environment was so effective and made me excited about foods, other cultures and nutrition.
— Katherine Ward, Maymester 2019 |
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
I want to travel more and see more of the world and I also have a totally different outlook on food and nutrition.
— Julie Akins, Maymester 2018 |
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
My experience inspired me to continue traveling the world to experience new cultures and learn from other countries . It also showed me the beauty of different foods and really emphasized the idea that moderation is key to a healthy life.
— Amanda Frothingham, Maymester 2018 |
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
Eating in Italy showed me that every meal should be enjoyed thoroughly, and that food is a very social thing. I will also keep in mind that every culture approaches food differently and this really affects our eating habits.
— Emily Hance, Maymester 2018 |
How did the experience impact you and your future educational/career/personal goals?
I feel like this experience made me more culturally aware and gave me a deeper appreciation for other cultures and the United States. I learned so much during the short three weeks over there, and I do not think I could have learned it from a classroom setting. I feel more well-rounded after doing this program and I am proud I can say I studied abroad in Italy.
— Teal Matthews, Maymester 2018 |