student stories

Student Stories

May 7, 2024

Meet the 2024 Summer Abroad Inclusion, Diversity and Excellence (EDI) Award recipients

The Summer Abroad Inclusion, Diversity and Excellence award was created to recognize exceptional students at the University of Toronto who are contributing to the advancement of equity, diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to announce these outstanding Summer Abroad participants as members of the 2023 cohort of Summer Abroad award recipients.

If you have any questions you would like to ask about awards granted through Summer Abroad, please contact the Summer Abroad team at summer.abroad@utoronto.ca

April 23, 2024

Summer Abroad is excited to announce the 2024 Social Media Correspondents for this summer! Our Correspondents play an important role in capturing their favourite memories so that Summer Abroad is able to continue to share their stories through their photos. To view each Social Media Correspondent's biography and 2024 Summer Abroad program, you can scroll down. Make sure you follow the Summer Abroad Instagram Account (@uoftabroad) to stay updated with our Social Media Correspondents adventures!

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March 27, 2024

Omer recounts his transformative experience during a summer abroad program in Berlin, Germany, offering valuable tips and personal anecdotes to enhance future travelers' adventures. His insights cover essential aspects such as thorough planning, engaging with locals for cultural immersion, staying flexible to unexpected opportunities, budgeting wisely, and ultimately savouring the journey itself. Omer's narrative not only provides practical advice but also emphasizes the profound personal growth and cultural enrichment that can be gained from immersive travel experiences.

EleanorLoveEDIBio
March 26, 2024

Embarking on a Summer Abroad journey isn't just about exploring a new country; it's also about forging meaningful connections with professors who are passionate about their fields. Unlike large lecture halls, Summer Abroad courses offer intimate settings where students engage closely with instructors through classes, field trips, and shared meals. 

In a recent conversation with two Summer Abroad instructors, Professor Anne Urbancic and Professor William Watson, we gained insights into the significance of these connections. Professor Urbancic shared fond memories of students coming together during culinary adventures in Italy, while Professor Watson reflected on the collective resilience displayed during challenging times.

oxfordsiena
March 1, 2024

Tianna shares her experience in the Italy Summer Abroad program!

IMPORTANT LINKS: Italy 2024 Program Information: https://summerabroad.utoronto.ca/program/italy Summer Abroad Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) Resources:  https://summerabroad.utoronto.ca/EDIA

CONNECT WITH SUMMER ABROAD General inquiries: summer.abroad@utoronto.ca Phone: 416-978-8713

February 29, 2024

In the summer of 2023, Mauricio immersed himself in the diverse cultures of Southeast Asia during U of T's summer abroad program in Singapore, where he participated in the interdisciplinary course "China from a Distance." This experience not only enriched his academic understanding but also ignited a passion for global engagement, leaving Mauricio with lasting friendships, a newfound appreciation for cultural diversity, and a trajectory shaped by the profound impact of his life-changing summer abroad.

Mauricio
February 29, 2024

Omer, a first-year Masters of Global Affairs student at the University of Toronto, shares his journey from being a refugee to pursuing studies focused on global justice, human rights, and migration. His transformative experience with the Summer Abroad program in Berlin, Germany, particularly the course on immigration and multiculturalism, played a crucial role in shaping his passion for addressing the challenges faced by migrants worldwide.

Omer
January 25, 2024

Did you know that the majority of Summer Abroad participants receive financial aid? Students receive funding from a variety of sources, which all contribute to being able to take part in Summer Abroad’s unique international learning experience. By looking into the right resources and funding opportunities, financial aid is accessible to everyone. Mauricio received an award that covered part of his program fees and has put together a guide that he hopes would help other students identify financial resources.

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January 25, 2024

Summer Abroad is described as not just a course; it's a journey that will reshape your perspective, broaden your horizons, and leave an indelible mark on your academic and personal trajectory. Omer's outlines how his academic journey has been shaped by invaluable experiences. 

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January 9, 2024

Alissia shares her experience in the Oxford Summer Abroad program (2022) and discusses her stay at Worcester College. She also talks about the field trips she took, including visits to the Divinity school, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and more!