"One of the things I enjoyed most about my time in Barcelona was how truly lively the people were. Everywhere you walked there was music playing, people singing and dancing."

"The only advice I can give is DO IT, and if you can, DO IT ALONE! I was told by a friend who also studied abroad some time ago that I shouldn’t look around for friends to follow me because the friends will already be there, they will be friends that last a lifetime, and boy was she right."

Wieder, a third-year doctoral candidate in the French and Francophone World Studies program is a recipient of the 2024 Stanley Award for International Research. In the fall, Wieder will travel to Paris to conduct archival research for her dissertation.

Here are our top five things every Iowa student who wants to study abroad should take advantage of. 

The Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship at the University of Iowa was established by the late Dr. Charles W. Day. Since 2002, the scholarship has helped over 30 international students pursue studies and research in the U.S., reflecting Dr. Day's belief in the transformative power of cross-cultural experiences.

"Not only did studying abroad provide so many incredible memories and allow me to really push myself, but it also helped me redefine and better understand my personal and career aspirations."

"Your study abroad experience will be your own: it will be different from what you expect, but at least in my case, that was for the best. Do not be afraid to embark on this new journey because there is so much support for you. Studying abroad is so worth it."

"I am forever grateful for the opportunity to be a Global Access Ambassador for Study Abroad at the University of Iowa. This role minimized barriers and allowed me to share my love for the University of Iowa with the world, in an experience I will never forget."

My trip to Jordan was a wonderful experience that I both enjoyed and learned from. I spent my days attending interesting classes, exploring the city of Amman, and getting to know locals and my cohort.

"I was granted the opportunity to work alongside people of a completely different culture in my internship, something which undeniably will be useful in my professional life."

"Dublin makes an excellent host city for programs like the one I attended, which was focused on creative writing. Everywhere I went, I was surrounded by literary history. I felt like I had found my way home."

"As I reflect on my semester in London, I feel nothing but gratitude. It is hard to put into words the amount of personal growth I developed in four months from new experiences, the people I met, and the new perspectives I gained."