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.”