(Bradenton, Fla., July 17, 2024) — Students from State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) traveled to England, Scotland and Ireland to learn about the region’s landmarks, culture and history during a 10-day SCF study abroad program trip. Local and expert guides provided education to the group through tours, lectures, panel discussions and visits to castles, cathedrals, institutions and other significant places.

Throughout their journey, the students journaled about the buildings, monuments and artifacts they explored in London, Oxford, Stratford upon Avon, York, Edinburgh, Dublin and other locations. Sightseeing in locations included Windsor Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Oxford University, Trinity College, Shakespeare’s birthplace, York Minster, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and other areas. After the group returned home, they shared their learning experiences in essays and a class presentation.

The students enjoyed their time discovering new scenery, emotions and knowledge in Europe.

“The adrenaline arriving in Europe to see landmarks older than our own country was too exciting to contain,” said SCF student Ian Sarkari.

SCF student Clare Grantham particularly admired the Windsor Castle tour, which touched her emotionally.

“Walking into the chapel (St. George’s), my eyes started to swell up and I felt as though I could spend days looking through every little detail,” Grantham said.

The trip broadened the worldview of SCF student Maranda Huber.

“Studying abroad has changed my life and showed me how big the world truly is,” Huber said.

Michael Rogers, SCF professor of American government and history, has been leading the SCF study abroad program since 2016. Rogers is planning a 2025 trip to Portugal and Spain.

Enrollment for the trip is open to a maximum of 30 students on a first-come, first-served basis with additional study-abroad education available.

“Students also have the option to take our SCF study abroad in Europe as a Summer A course for three credit hours, and most do,” Rogers said.  

For questions about the SCF study abroad program, contact Michael Rogers at 941-408-1485 or RogersM@SCF.edu.

Photo caption: SCF students visit Windsor Castle during the study abroad trip.

Photo caption: SCF students visit Shakespeare’s birthplace during the study abroad trip.