Journeying Beyond the Classroom: The Beauty of Studying Abroad

Summer break is typically for catching rays, getting ahead of studies and reconnecting with the outside world after months of surviving on deadlines and caffeine. However, for some students, it becomes an opportunity to continue their academics while experiencing a trip of a lifetime.

Our Programs at a Glance

Through ERAU’s Study Abroad & Global Engagement, students are able to participate in programs in various countries throughout the world. From studying economics in Rome to Chinese studies in Taiwan, there are an abundance of opportunities to expand their understanding of the different cultures and environments of the world while simultaneously connecting their academic studies. Students have the potential to go on these short-term programs during their school breaks or attend exchange programs for a full semester or year. Other programs offered include studies in France, Spain, Hungary, Argentina and Australia.

This past summer, two milestone programs celebrated anniversaries. The 20-year partnership with Dante Aleghieri in Siena, Italy, was celebrated with a dinner at a local restaurant on the famous Il Campo of Siena. The 10-year partnership anniversary with Get Lost, Inc. was held in Athens, Greece, with Aegean Airlines sponsoring the celebration gala.

The Director of Study Abroad & Global Engagement for all ERAU campuses, Sue Macchiarella, mentioned how Riddle students are now able to study in two new countries in the upcoming academic semesters: Alliance in India for social science and physics and Chévere Ecuador for engineering.

“At its inception, study abroad focused primarily on foreign language acquisition, cultural immersion and building international goodwill through educational exchange,” said the director.

“Beyond professional development, study abroad serves as a powerful catalyst for personal growth, challenging students to expand their perspectives, develop confidence and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others.”

Unforgettable Memories

Students who participated in the Aegean Airlines study abroad in Greece shared what made their time abroad so meaningful. Aeronautical Science student Jacob Patterson (JP) highlighted that he went rafting in the Papingo mountains. “The views were amazing and the water was freezing, but racing the other rafts and splashing each other was extremely fun.”

Patterson also mentioned how his favorite part of the trip was when he and seven other students attempted to row a single dingy from the beach back to their boats.

“Although we were successful in our voyage, apparently the max limit was four people…and the professors didn't find that amusing.”

Ryan Bonser, a senior in Space Operations, went on the trip for a second time this past summer to further explore and experience Greece. For him, one of the most memorable moments was sharing dinner with the friends he made on the trip on the island of Milos, reflecting on the journey that had brought them there.

“I would encourage others to do this study abroad not only because of the beauty of Greece,” said Bonser. “…but also because of the friends you make and the experiences you get to have, such as learning how to sail and going to islands you may not have originally gone to if traveling by yourself.”

Ready for YOUR adventure?

If you are interested in a faculty-led winter, spring or summer program, it is advised to meet one-on-one with our Study Abroad Advisor, Andrew Norris (norrisa8@erau.edu) or visit the Study Abroad webpage on the Embry-Riddle website.  

“Studying abroad is also about giving students the opportunity to grow on multiple levels,” Advisor Andrew Norris said. “The intersection of academics and real-world practice is impossible to replicate in a traditional classroom setting and is a huge benefit to students on our programs. The adversity that students face on these programs—from flight delays or missed trains, to academic challenges—are all part of studying abroad and all lead to a student’s growth while on a program.”

Students are also encouraged to attend the Study Abroad Fall Forum, which will take place near the middle to the end of September. There, all of the programs for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year will be announced.

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