Naomi shares her transformative journey from Montreal to Oxford through the Summer Abroad program. Uncover how it amplified her academic, social, and global perspectives, while balancing coursework and leisure for exploration and prominent encounters in psychiatry and criminal reformation. These experiences cultivated collaboration, open-mindedness, and a thirst for continuous learning and growth.
We are excited to welcome our new team of work study students! All of these students have participated in at least one Summer Abroad course. Over the fall and winter semesters, you will be meeting them across the three U of T campuses answering questions about Summer Abroad. They are eager to share their own experiences and advise students on all the international learning opportunities available through Summer Abroad in 2025!
Entering her fourth year at the University of Toronto, Juliana, majoring in Political Science with minors in French Language and Philosophy, shares her transformative experiences from the Summer Abroad program in Greece. Initially hesitant to join, a conversation with a friend convinced her to participate, leading to exceptional academic and personal growth. Highlights include a memorable visit to the European Bread Museum, where she engaged in hands-on activities, and the overall enrichment gained from the cultural immersion. She advises prospective students to embrace the experience fully, take advantage of resources, and step out of their comfort zones.
Yufei's journey through the 2024 Summer Abroad program in Ecuador was a transformative experience. As a student of Biology, Physical Sciences and Environmental Science, he ventured beyond textbooks to tackle real-world environmental issues. His adventures led him to memorable encounters with marine life, such as snorkeling alongside sea turtles and observing sea lions in their natural habitat. Read about Yufei's experiences on the Galápagos Islands as he delved into the complex world of ecological balance and conservation strategies.
Vanessa, a third-year Rotman Commerce student, reflects on her memorable Summer Abroad experience in Tokyo. She encourages prospective students to join the program, citing its unique excursions, personal development prospects, and the formation of enduring friendships. Vanessa highlights the comprehensive support provided by the Summer Abroad office and the invaluable assistance from on-site staff, which ensured a smooth and enriching experience. Her engagements with the local communities and fellow participants fostered a supportive environment, creating lasting bonds that transcended borders and cultures.
Liz, a third-year Rotman Commerce student, cherishes her South Africa Summer Abroad program experience, particularly visiting a nature reserve and seeing elephants and lions in the wild. She advises prospective students to seize the chance for personal development and cultural immersion. Liz considers the program her favourite undergraduate experience, as it provided hands-on learning and fostered strong bonds with peers and professors. Observing socio-economic disparities in South Africa expanded her worldview on global issues, enhancing both her academic path and personal development.
Yi-En, a third-year student from Singapore majoring in Urban Studies and Sociology, had an enriching Summer Abroad experience in Tokyo. Immersing in the city's culture and navigating language barriers fostered personal and academic growth. Yi-En emphasizes the importance of reflecting on personal strengths when applying and highlights the invaluable support from the program's on-site coordinator. The experience built lasting friendships, boosted confidence for solo travel, and provided profound cultural insights, making it a highly recommended opportunity for broadening horizons.
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
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!
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.
