This month, Wandering Educators is working on a series on faculty-led study abroad. The first one featured a student who studied i

Disney has captured the hearts of children and adults with captivating fairytales and movies that have come to life in each of their treasured theme parks. Today, Disney continues to provide many engaging opportunities to college students with The Disney College Program.

Are you curious about studying abroad but would feel more comfortable on a short-term faculty-led program? Then, you'll want to read the faculty-led student interview series this month!

#StudyAbroadBecause

This month, I will be writing a series on faculty-led study abroad, interviewing students and professors. Studying abroad is such a life-changing experience and there are different types of programs that match a student’s needs and interests.

You’ve made it — senior year of high school! Classes, clubs and sports, extracurricular activities, prom, and preparing for college all year long will be a whirlwind. It can be an emotional time, too.

Being the first person to go to college in my family, I really felt lost when approaching plans for college. My high school guidance counselor wasn’t really much of a help and I relied more on the parents of my friends who did attend college for more information and advice. Looking back, I see so much that I should’ve or could’ve done, but it didn’t turn out too bad. A Bachelors and a Masters later, I gained a lot of skills and experience through having nine internships, a study abroad experience, volunteer experiences, and working part-time and full-time during college.

Colleges and universities around the world are valuing the goal of becoming more globally engaged and continuing to encourage their students to study abroad. What is the value behind those international experiences?

When my [Mexican] husband and I first started dating over five years ago, I was a bit nervous to try Mexican food—especially with all the jalapenos and other ingredients that I saw prepared in the food. However, one summer, our godchildren came for a visit and they taught me how to make authentic Mexican chicken enchiladas with salsa verde (green sauce).

Studying abroad is one of the most enriching experiences of my life.