It was the breathtaking view of the Grand Canal from Wake Forest’s Casa Artom House in Venice, Italy, that convinced me to partake in that program. For a semester, I was lucky enough to wake up to the view every morning before heading out to explore the city’s rich culture. Between film festivals, great food and unforgettable travel, I will always look back on my semester in Venice as one of the most influential times of my life. 

My experience isn’t unique at Wake Forest, where study abroad is a significant part of student culture. Over 85% of students earned credit overseas during the 2023-2024 school year, placing Wake Forest fourth nationally for study abroad participation. The university prides itself on its study abroad programs and emphasizes its vast opportunities to attract prospective students. Students who choose to study abroad face a daunting decision when selecting a program. 

Junior Eliza Kalina participated in an affiliate program focusing on business in Barcelona, Spain, this fall. Beyond advancing her academic career, Kalina looked for special perks such as a flexible schedule that would allow convenient travel around Europe.

“We didn’t have classes on Fridays… so I went to Florence and Rome,” Kalina said, adding that she spent her weekdays in Barcelona at the beach or at landmarks like La Sagrada Familia.

Three-day weekends are a common and popular feature of Wake Forest study abroad programs. Junior Katrin Cronlund, who spent this fall at the Casa Artom house in Venice, took advantage of her long weekends with frequent trips. 

“I’d traveled like 60-70% of the weekends… I think my favorite place was definitely Morocco,” Cronlund stated. While she wished she had even more time for travel, Cronlund said she appreciated the community and tranquility of Venice. 

“I liked talking with people and laughing… I liked walking around Venice. The food was great if you’re willing to put some money down,” Cronlund expressed. She enjoyed living in a smaller city, with a slower pace of life relative to the hustle and bustle of other cities she had previously visited.

While some students, like Cronlund, hope to feel like a local after spending an entire semester abroad, other students seek out shorter immersions through summer sessions that last only a few weeks. 

Sophomore Isabela Jaramillo falls into the latter category. She spent three weeks in London last summer with the London School of Economics (LSE), an experience she said created lasting memories and friendships.

“We went to Wimbledon at 4 a.m., and then we got let in at 10 a.m.,” Jaramillo said. “We brought stuff for a picnic, and it was lovely.”

Jaramillo stated she appreciated the opportunity to dip her toes into international travel but longed to spend even more time abroad. 

“I should have taken the time to actually go and explore London more,” Jaramillo asserted. 

When asked, all interviewees shared that they don’t regret their experience and would definitely study abroad again.

“Say yes to every opportunity!” Jaramillo said.

I couldn’t agree more.