Global Ambassadors

Katherine Clarkson – Dublin, Ireland Semester

“My name is Katherine and I’m a physical therapy student. During my sophomore spring semester, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Dublin, Ireland. I learned so much about myself and the world around me. No matter your major, I strongly believe the experience of studying abroad is beneficial to self-growth. Of course, in the beginning, I was hesitant to leave the only place I knew, but it was worth being uncomfortable to have the most eye-opening experience. Your growth as a student, a friend, and an individual will surprise you! I hope you decide to push out of your comfort zone and explore what’s out there!”

Abbey DeLisio – Dublin, Ireland Semester

“My name is Abbey DeLisio, and I am a physical therapy major. Studying abroad in Dublin allowed me to learn not only about a new country, but also about myself. It was an amazing experience to not only travel around Ireland, but also all over Europe. Having these experiences and making new connections made this the opportunity of a lifetime. I highly encourage anyone even slightly interested in study abroad to contact Jill and learn more about the programs. Any study abroad trip is truly life changing.”

Meg McCracken – Poland Summer Program

“Hi! My name is Meg McCracken, and I am studying physical therapy. Although I know the end goal for my prospective career, I am still figuring out which specialty to focus on, so exploring different areas of healthcare in Poland was beneficial and allowed me to experience a wide variety of areas I otherwise wouldn’t have. I had so much fun strengthening my relationships with people from many walks of life and backgrounds, including other physical therapy students from LVC, with whom I otherwise may not have become life-long friends. While the trip was exciting and quite fast-paced, relaxing and enjoying the hospitality ingrained in the friendly and generous Polish culture was refreshing. My time abroad was so beneficial for my future in the healthcare system, not only being able to appreciate modern physical therapy techniques but also understanding the importance of history and how it shapes the people we become.”

Danny McHale – New Zealand Semester

“My name is Danny McHale and I am a physical therapy student here at LVC. I have always had a passion for travel and nature and the opportunity to study abroad in New Zealand fulfilled both of those. As my first time out of the country, I was definitely a little out of my comfort zone to begin with, but after settling in, it was probably the best experience I have ever had. The combination of great people and natural beauty throughout New Zealand made for an amazing experience and memories that will last a lifetime.” were extremely immersive and required you to step out of your comfort zone. The entire experience left me extremely motivated.”

Jaerren Stever – Ireland Semester

“My experience studying abroad was one full of new experiences that have not only changed the way I see the world around me but have also changed me as a person. Being in Dublin I not only got the opportunity of seeing the beauty and wonder of the Irish countryside and culture but also travel across Europe and see places I’ve never seen before! I met so many people from across the globe and from the U.S. that I have formed long lasting relationships with. Studying abroad is an experience I would recommend to anyone, and if you have in questions don’t be afraid to reach out!”

Jaxon Madara – Netherlands Summer

“I am a Physical Therapy major with a minor in Spanish for Healthcare Professionals. I studied abroad in Costa Rica for four weeks, and throughout my time there, I was able to greatly improve my speaking, listening, and comprehension skills in Spanish, all while taking classes and exploring the country.”

Lauren Jancsarics – New Zealand Semester

“The best way for me to describe my time abroad is as “eye-opening.” For four months, I explored things I never thought I would have had the chance to see in my lifetime while pursuing a college degree. This time allows you to see what life is really about, including adventures and plenty of excitement, and lets you embrace yourself since you’re entirely on your own. You have the opportunity to build friendships with people from the country you are staying in, people from LVC, other people from different countries around the world, and maybe even an Olympian if you’re lucky, which is such a unique experience!”

Shelly Bliss – Costa Rica Summer

“I am a physical therapy major with a minor in Applied Spanish for Healthcare Professionals. My time in CR was life changing in more ways that I could have imagined. My Spanish improved dramatically during my time there and the experience of living with host families was incredible. I was able to use some of my PT knowledge to answer their questions and now I am considering a clinical experience in a Spanish-speaking country. I know that Spanish will be valuable in any PT setting. Additionally, I gained confidence in myself and enjoyed the food, wildlife, and realtionships formed with the LVC group and locals.”

Faith Mellott – Ireland Semester

“Studying abroad in Ireland was a life-changing experience, and I made memories that I will cherish forever. Being in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day was one of my favorite memories,though the people and the culture made this whole adventure beautiful. I was lucky to explore much more of Europeand visited France, Italy, Scotland, Germany, and Iceland! I can’t recommend this program enough.”

Mya Maloney – Italy Summer

“I am an Early Childhood Education and Special Education dual major. During the summer before my junior year, I studied abroad in Perugia, Italy, for five weeks. It was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. I grew both personally and professionally as a future educator, especially through the classroom observations we completed abroad. Creating new friendships, stepping outside of your comfort zone, and experiencing a new culture are just a few of the many reasons I would highly recommend studying abroad to any LVC student!”

Sarah Speraw – Italy Semester

“Speech-Language Pathology revealed my passion to help others find their voice and connect through communication. Last semester, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Perugia, Italy – an ideal time in my academic journey before taking major-specific courses in the following years. I have no regrets about my decision; it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I constantly encourage others to take advantage of similar opporunities, as studying abroad is something you’ll always look back on for the lasting friendships and unforgettable memories made.”

Megan Paisley – Italy Semester

“I’m currently a Speech-Language Pathology major at LVC. During my sophomore spring semester, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Perugia, Italy. It was truly one of the best experiences of my life! I went into this journey as a completely different person than when I returned. Living in Perugia, traveling to new places, and immersing myself in the food and culture of Italy were highlights that I’ll never forget.”

Emma Gane – Costa Rica Summer

“I am a Physical Therapy major with a minor in Spanish for Healthcare Professionals. I studied abroad in Costa Rica for four weeks, and throughout my time there, I was able to greatly improve my speaking, listening, and comprehension skills in Spanish, all while taking classes and exploring the country.”

Jordan Shekalus – Italy Summer

“I am a third-year physical therapy major with a psychology minor. The five weeks I spent studying abroad in Perugia, Italy, over the summer were the best experience I have ever had, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. This opportunity gave me lifelong friends from LVC whom I may never have interacted with otherwise, and I also met students from across the United States. Through this experience, my social skills significantly improved, and I grew as an individual, becoming more confident and independent. I am beyond grateful that I was able to study abroad, live in another country, and gain an appreciation for the culture.”

Colin Glines – New Zealand Semester

“I’m a third year physical therapy major. Everything about my study abroad experience was amazing. I was able to travel all over the country throughout my semester abroad and experience once in a lifetime opportunities. It improved my interpersonal skills and was one of the best times of my life.”

Colton Swope – New Zealand Semester

“I am a physical therapy student. Initially, I was hesitant, but both LVC and the University of Waikato faculty provided strong support and encouragement, pushing me beyond my comfort zone to experience an incredible opportunity. The welcoming New Zealand culture ensured I always found help when needed and felt comfortable.”

Duce Winters – New Zealand Semester

“I tore my ACL in 2021, which introduced me to physical therapy. Ever since then, I have wanted to become a physical therapist. Studying abroad in New Zealand has been one of the greatest decisions I’ve ever made. I enjoyed exploring a beautiful country with some of my closest friends. I also enjoyed the person I became. I became much closer with my guys, more social, more independent, and more eager to step out of my comfort zone.”

Lorenzo Yourey – New Zealand Semester

“Kia Ora! I am a 3rd-year Physical Therapy student. I absolutely loved this semester trip as I was able to fulfill my dream of traveling outside of the country. During my time abroad, I was able to experience the Maori culture, meet people of different backgrounds, and experience places I never thought I would have a chance to see. I recommend this trip to anyone who loves nature and a good time, as the Kiwi culture and the mountains of NZ welcome all!”

Ashley Wisner – Semester Australia

“As a student studying psychology and criminal justice, I had the opportunity to learn about the many different practices, perspectives, and approaches through an international lens. While engaging with new academic environments and diverse viewpoints, I was able to expand my understanding of how culture, policy, and social systems influence both psychological practice and criminological research.”

Chloe McDermitt – Netherlands Summer

“I am an Athletic Training major and I studied abroad in the Netherlands for 4 weeks over the summer. My advice to anyone that is hesitant to study abroad: do it! You’ll grow so much as an individual and gain a deeper cultural understanding of the world around us. If you’re looking to see the world in a short amount of time, the Netherlands is the place for you!”

Cassandra Bortz – Czech Republic Summer

“I am a Psychology major pursuing the track towards a masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also have a minor in special education because I am interested in a focus towards helping children in counseling. Studying abroad gave me the opportunity to expand my understanding of different cultures while experiencing day to day life in Prague and the joys of traveling to new places. This trip has allowed me to be more culturally aware, independent, and confident interacting with people from different backgrounds.”

Mackenzie Carr – Ireland Semester & Czech Republic Summer

“I’m majoring in mathematics and psychology, both of which rely heavily on communication and problem-solving skills. The unique classes I took abroad provided me with different cultural perspectives that enhanced these skills and my knowledge within my majors. I studied abroad twice, and both programs left me with experiences, opportunities, and relationships that I will continue to carry with me.”

Brynn Archey – Italy Summer

“I am a senior nursing student. Study abroad was one of the most rewarding experiences as it allowed me to immerse myself in many cultures and experience life from a new perspective. It showed me the importance of learning new cultures and traditions so I can become a compassionate and overall well-rounded nurse. Traveling within the program also allowed me to fulfill my dreams in traveling to specific cities in Europe.”

Becca Lee – Italy Semester

“I am a third year speech-language pathology student at LVC. I studied abroad in Perugia, Italy and had the most amazing experience living in Europe for four months! During my time there, I had delicious food, learned how to travel around the world, met great friends, became independent, and saw beautiful views. I am glad that I took the opportunity to study abroad. This experience made me a more well-rounded person and is something that I will remember for the rest of my life!”

Diya Patel – Italy Summer

“I am an International Business and Policy major with minors in Marketing and Sociology. I had the opportunity to study abroad in Perugia, Italy, and it was truly the best life I have ever lived. I really enjoyed my classes, meeting new people, and traveling throughout Italy and experiencing everything the country had to offer. Being able to live in a new place, explore, and make memories outside of my usual routine made the experience so special.”

Ava Wenz – Italy Semester

“I am a Speech-Language Pathology major with a passion for working with children and helping others communicate. Studying abroad in Perugia, Italy, gave me the opportunity to experience Italian culture firsthand while stepping outside of my comfort zone and becoming more independent. I especially enjoyed exploring different cities, trying authentic Italian food, and traveling to places such as Rome.”