Wilkes University is offering study abroad programs in Spain or Peru during the summer of 2023.
Dr. Paola Bianco, professor of Spanish and global cultures, has been the study abroad coordinator since 2002 and has been at Wilkes since 1996. She has seen many students come through the program and learn from their experiences away from America. Bianco’s goals for the program are to gain confidence, flexibility, and an understanding of a different culture.
“By learning and absorbing a new culture students learn about their own culture. Students come back with a new perspective on the world, by studying abroad they gain confidence, learn to be flexible, and to adapt to new lifestyles,” Bianco said.
As of now, the study abroad trip is flexible in time, city and length. Students also have the choice to stay with a family or in a hotel.
Spain programs are available for two weeks at three credits, four weeks at six credits, or six weeks for nine credits. Such credits will be counted toward electives, general education, minor, major and or Spanish certification for Pharmacy. Available locations are Sevilla, Madrid, Valencia, among other cities.
The Cuczo, Peru, program is offered for two weeks for three credits. This includes excursions to Machu Picchu, clinical observations and/or conversational exchange with natives.
John Hannaway, P2 pharmacy and Spanish major, completed a summer in Spain with two weeks in Valencia and two weeks in Sevilla. He used this experience to better his linguistic skills.
“Currently, my goal is to work as a community pharmacist. I feel that, in this position and depending on where I live, I will have many great opportunities to speak in Spanish with patients,” said Hannaway. “The hardest part to get over was not having dinner until 9 p.m. every night. In my family in the United States, we usually eat dinner at 5 p.m. when everyone gets home, so it was a big adjustment.”
Philip Davis, also a P2 pharmacy major, attended the same trip as Hannaway. Similar to Hannaway, he reflected on his experience with cultural differences.
“It was super cool to see not only how other people live but how you can adapt in that situation,” said Davis. “It was honestly the time of my life, I would go back tomorrow if I could.”
The study abroad program is open to all students and all levels of Spanish courses. More information can be found on the Wilkes website or contact Dr. Paola Bianco for pricing and itineraries. Some scholarships are also available.