How We Spent Our Summer Vacation
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The world was a classroom for many Southeastern students this summer. Whether completing international internships or study abroad programs, they had opportunities for learning – and leisure – that far surpassed their expectations.
Europe
Southeastern theatre and communication students studied their crafts in London, home to Shakespeare and the BBC. In addition
to watching West End productions, touring the Olympic Village and conversing with
professionals in their fields of study, the students took day trips to Ireland, Scotland,
Spain and England.
Four students – Lauren Broussard, Stephanie Katz, Crystal Schayot and Katy Truluck
– traveled to Dublin, Ireland, one weekend to participate in the world's largest Riverdance
event. They earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for their efforts
at the record-breaking event with 1,693 dancers from 44 countries.
"Dancing on such an iconic spot as the River Liffey was unreal and truly a moment I will never forget," said organizational communication graduate student Broussard.
Although they have been life-long dancers, Truluck and Schayot never tried Riverdancing
before
learning it for the event. Katz, who has taken Irish dance classes in the past, was
inspired by the experience to start classes again this fall.
China
Southeastern's College of Business took 22 students on a 10-day study abroad trip
to China.
Participating students earned six credit hours in marketing and management courses upon
completion of the program that required a research paper and other academic work.
Visiting the Great Wall was a highlight of the trip, which included stops in three cities.
"There is nothing like having first-hand knowledge of a culture. The opportunity will
enhance
your learning experience and change your outlook on life," said management student
Taylor
Boudreaux.
Australia
Branden Summers, a study abroad veteran who participated in the China program last
year, knew he wanted to spend another summer abroad before graduating in May. The
former Student Government Association president applied for a competitive internship
opportunity at the Consulate General of the United States in Melbourne, Australia
– and got the job.
For 10 weeks, Summers represented the U.S. at Australian government functions, community events, business meetings and university speaking engagements. He also managed social media for the Consulate to engage and inform Australians about their efforts. Outside of the office, Summers snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef, hiked in the rainforest, swam in the waterfalls and fed a few exotic animals.
Summers, a marketing major who plans to work in international business or governmental affairs when he graduates, felt he was prepared for the experience thanks to his participation in Southeastern's study abroad program and Student Government Association.
Southeastern hosted many other study abroad programs this summer, including biology
in
France, business in Costa Rica and Panama, history in England and France, language
in Italy,
political science and geography in Salzburg and tropical ecology in Costa Rica.
Learn more about next summer's study abroad programs and begin planning to attend one now.
