Elizabeth Kalaj, Senior Writer
Over the winter intersession, students from all majors utilized Manhattan University’s study abroad opportunities. Study abroad trips during the winter intersession last two weeks and are offered in various locations, including Barcelona, Paris, Rome and Ireland. Each program allowed students to earn credits for required courses outside of New York City. Students also had the opportunity to celebrate the new year while immersing themselves in foreign cultures.
The Quadrangle spoke to students from various programs about their experiences while studying abroad.
Julian Reyes ‘25, communication major with a concentration in sports media production
The Quadrangle: What was the trip to Barcelona about? Was there a general topic that surrounded the class?
Julian Reyes: The course was used to get us exposed to the food in Barcelona, but mainly how the food is incorporated into the culture and how those two things intertwine. At the end of the course, we would write about our experiences with food and culture, along with the part we played in it.
TQ: What was your favorite excursion that you took part in during the trip?
JR: One of my favorite activities was the bike ride we completed, stopping at three different winery destinations. That whole day was really cool, because at each stop we would learn about the process of making wine and fielding the grapes. Riding the bike and trying pure wine with food was fun. My other favorite memory was staying at a Catalonian farmhouse that was built before Christopher Columbus discovered America. There, we got to cook in an oven that was over seven hundred years old, which was very cool. Overall, the farmhouse was so peaceful and beautiful.
Ava Mcguigan ‘25, childhood education major with a concentration in psychology
The Quadrangle: Now that you have taken this trip, what do you think the benefits are of studying abroad versus planning your own individual trip?
Ava Mcguigan: Focusing on Paris, which was where I visited, I feel like if I had visited on my own, I would have focused on general tourist spots that everyone visits. While we did see those areas, I got to visit so many religious monuments, including the Notre Dame [cathedral] that has been rebuilt. By studying abroad, I also got to learn about ancient Paris and what that city once looked like, including underground monasteries and large churches with various statues and stained glass windows.
TQ: What was the driving factor that made you go on a study abroad trip?
AM: I just think that it is an incredible opportunity that you only get when you are in school. Since I knew I was approaching my last year of college, I really wanted the opportunity to do something nice like this trip.
Sean Mannion ‘25, exercise science major
The Quadrangle: What was your favorite place to visit while studying abroad in Italy?
Sean Mannion: My favorite activity was on a free day during the trip, when my group decided to buy passes to Florence. We had all previously known each other through Greek life and friendships on campus, so we just decided to spend a day walking around and seeing another city. It was absolutely beautiful.
TQ: Do you have any advice for students thinking about studying abroad?
SM: If you are thinking about studying abroad, do it. I think going on a trip with at least one person you know allows you to really enjoy everything as a unit. I would say to really take advantage of the opportunity, put your phone down and take in all the sights, especially while you have the chance to.