Raiders invited to spread their wings with study abroad opportunities

Education doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Study abroad is a transformative experience that takes students out of their comfort zone and requires them to apply their knowledge in the real world.

Seminole State College of Florida’s 2026 study abroad opportunities highlight the intersection of learning, culture and lived experience. As a high impact practice, study abroad trips empower students, leaving a lasting impression that builds students’ collaboration and critical thinking skills along with their confidence.  

Explore the Amazon Rainforest, Peru | March 12 - 21

No spring break is wilder than embarking on a journey through the Amazon Rainforest. Students are guided by expert faculty through one of the most biodiverse regions of the planet, exploring the unique ecosystems and connecting with local communities With plenty of hiking and opportunities for animal encounters, this is the trip for students looking to get close to nature and push their boundaries. 

“One thing that this trip to the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest does for students is get them outside of their comfort zone,” said Professor of Biology Teresa Nusinov. “We see monkeys, macaws, anteaters, snakes, frogs and all sorts of things that the students get to experience and observe behaviors firsthand.”

Spanish Speaking and Culture in Spain | May 18 – June 2

History, art and culture collide in Toledo, Spain. Students will hone their Spanish skills through classroom learning paired with cultural excursions, even getting to stay on campus at the Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha. The trip offers total language immersion, a unique experience that students take with them no matter what field they pursue.

“I would absolutely recommend this program to anyone in the healthcare field,” said Tracy Sheffield, who attended the trip in 2025. “It made me think about my future patients—especially those who don’t speak English fluently—and how important it is to make them feel heard, understood, and comfortable.”

Ireland: Grindle Honors Institute Global Seminar | June 7 – 18

Grindle Honors Institute students can take their experience abroad to Ireland to dive into global issues, connect with scholars from around the world and examine what it means to be an engaged citizen in an increasingly connected world. The trip explores Irish history and culture and offers the chance for students to challenge their perspectives.

“My favorite part of a study abroad experience is seeing how our students’ confidence grows,” said Honors Director Tracy Harbin. “The honors curriculum is designed to foster intellectual curiosity and develop leadership skills. Study abroad opportunities push those qualities into overdrive, creating a more globally conscious student.”

Chile: Where Earth Meets the Universe | June 25 – July 5

Astronomy extends beyond the classroom. The Emil Buehler Trust Planetarium and Department of Physical Sciences are partnering for this special study abroad opportunity that explores the history of ancient astronomy, the formation and evolution of the Earth and plate tectonics and the development and use of deep space telescopes. Students have the chance to learn how to operate astronomical observatories, gather data and gain field experience in the Atacama Desert.  

"Chile is the astronomy capital of the world,” said Planetarium Director Derek Demeter. “The combination of dry air, high altitude and no light pollution make Chile the world's premier location for astronomical research and observatory sites."

“Study abroad teaches students how to be comfortable in new and sometimes uncomfortable spaces,” said Hailee Handel, high impact practices and study abroad coordinator. “They have to navigate a new area, new experiences and a new culture but have the safety net of being with our own faculty-leads. This lends them to being able to articulate in interviews how they overcame that discomfort and learned from it, which really helps them stand out amongst other job candidates.”

Learn more about each trip on the study abroad webpage and complete an application by Monday, Oct. 12.