Global Ambassadors

University of Notre Dame, Fremantle - Spring

Samantha Schroeder | Exercise Science

Hello, my name is Samantha Schroeder, and I am a senior majoring in exercise science with a focus on physical therapy. I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad at the University of Notre Dame, Australia. Traveling to a new country was an exciting and unforgettable experience, and I truly enjoyed immersing myself in the culture. One of my favorite parts of studying abroad was meeting people from all around the world, learning about different cultures, and creating meaningful friendships. These experiences are memories I will always cherish. Outside of academics, I love playing lacrosse, making new connections, and helping others whenever I can. I am excited to continue meeting new people, creating lasting memories, and being a helping hand to those around me!

Hellenic American University | Athens  - Summer

Lila Ferber | Finance & Accounting 

Hi! My name is Lila Ferber, I am from New York City and I am junior finance and accounting major with a minor in sport management. I studied abroad in summer 2026 in Athens, Greece, at Hellenic American University. At Sacred Heart University, I am involved in Army ROTC, the Sport Management Club, and Chi Omega. I am a Welch Mentor and I also work for the Center for Irish Studies. Studying abroad was something I knew I had always wanted to do, just not sure of where. Being from Manhattan, I wanted to stay in a big city and going to Greece was always a dream of mine, so having the opportunity to combine the two was amazing. While in Greece, I had so many unforgettable experiences and met so many amazing people! I am so grateful for all the memories I made and would definitely recommend going abroad to anyone!

SHU Dingle - Fall

Naima Cardona-Bregante | Exercise Science

Hi! My name is Naima, and I am a junior in the Exercise Science program. I studied in Dingle during the fall semester of my sophomore year, and it was the best thing I could have done! I had so many wonderful experiences and met people who are now some of my best friends. Studying abroad allowed me to grow so much as a person by living in an environment completely different from what I was used to. Being away from home pushed me outside of my comfort zone and taught me to be more independent, open-minded, and adaptable. I learned so much from the people, culture, and experiences around me. I love talking about Dingle because it helped shape who I am today.

Maeve Fitzgerald | Marketing

Hi! My name is Maeve Fitzgerald, and I’m a Junior Marketing major from Westfield, Massachusetts. I had the amazing opportunity to study in Dingle, Ireland, during the Fall of 2025. Studying abroad was an experience that has really changed my life. I met some of my best friends and had the privilege of learning from some of the most amazing professors. Between the food, music, and the excursions, there are so many ways to make the most of your adventure while also soaking in Irish culture. I was also fortunate enough to explore other places while abroad, like England, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Italy, and Scotland! If studying abroad has taught me one thing, it is that you need to take advantage of every single opportunity presented to you; it is so worth it. This was easily the best decision I could have made during my time at Sacred Heart, and as a Global Ambassador, I hope to encourage others to make the same choice.

Emma Matalia | Exercise Science

Hi! My name is Emma Matalia and I studied abroad at our campus in Dingle, Ireland in the Fall 2025 semester. I am a Junior in Sacred Heart's Exercise Science program as well in the Honors College! In my spare time I enjoy going to the gym, hanging out with friends, shopping in downtown Fairfield. While I was in Dingle my favorite activities were surfing, sea kayaking, and the sea safari tour! Some of my favorite food spots in Dingle was The Bean coffee shop, The Fish Box, and Murphy's Ice Cream! While in Ireland I explored Galway, Kerry, Dublin, Killarney, and Kilkenny!

Ella Turenne | Health Science

Hello everyone! My name is Ella Turenne and I am from Westport, Massachusetts. Here at SHU, I am a Health Science major with a concentration in Dietetics & Nutrition, as well as a minor in Business Marketing. In Fall 2025 of my sophomore year, I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland. Getting the opportunity to study abroad was one of the best decisions I made during my college journey and has become one of the most rewarding experiences I have had. I was able to fully immersive myself in the Irish culture of community, food, music, language, excursions, and so much more. I was so fortunate to create the best memories with people that have now become some of my best friends. I was also able to travel to Belgium, France, Italy, London, and Galway during my time in Dingle. Studying abroad in Ireland was an experience I will always cherish and has truly helped me grow into the person I am today.

SHU Dingle - Spring

Emily Franzen | Elementary Education 

Hi everyone! My name is Emily Franzen, and I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland during the spring of 2026. Studying abroad was truly one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and Dingle quickly became a second home. As someone who had never traveled abroad before, I arrived feeling both excited and nervous, but the warmth of the community made me feel welcome from the very beginning. One of the most unexpected and rewarding parts of my experience was having the opportunity to teach at the local all-boys elementary school. As an elementary education major, it was a dream come true and an experience I will always cherish. Between traveling throughout Europe, immersing myself in a new culture, and becoming part of the Dingle community, I created memories and connections that will stay with me forever. Dingle will always hold such a special place in my heart!

Emma Klein | STEM Elementary Education

Hi! My name is Emma Klein and I am a junior from Middletown, CT. I am a STEM elementary education major with minors in honors and psychology. On campus, I am involved in the Dance Ensemble, Education Club, Alpha Phi Omega, and programs through the Office of Community Engagement. I studied abroad this past spring semester in Dingle, Ireland with this experience being my first time venturing outside of the United States! As a result of the program, I was also able to travel to multiple other countries throughout Europe, sparking my love for travel. While in Dingle, I loved being able to immerse myself in the culture, try new activities, and meet countless welcoming individuals. Studying abroad was an opportunity that allowed me to push myself out of my comfort zone and grow in countless ways!

Sarah Leone | Elementary Education

My name is Sarah Leone, and I’m from Franklin, Massachusetts. I’m a junior Elementary Education major at SHU in the 4+1 dual degree program. I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I loved getting to experience Irish culture, explore different parts of the country, and meet so many new people. I made some of my closest friends while abroad and really enjoyed my classes and the experience of living in a different country. I also loved getting to travel and see places I had never been before. Outside of school, I love traveling, spending time with my friends and family, and exploring new places. Studying abroad in Dingle gave me so many great experiences, and I’m excited to share what I learned and help other students feel confident about taking the opportunity to study abroad!

Abbi Marino | Sports Communication and Media

Hi, my name is Abbi Marino! I'm a senior, Sports Communications & Media Major, with minors in Catholic Studies and Irish Studies. I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland, for the Spring 2025 semester, my sophomore year and had the incredible opportunity to go again, the first Summer 2026 session at the end of my junior year. SHU in Dingle gave me my first experience seeing the world outside of the United States! While abroad I completed an internship with a local athletics organization in Dingle, being able to fully immerse myself into the community by working alongside them was nothing short of amazing! Outside of study abroad I work with the athletic communications and broadcasting crews on campus, for our D1 sports! I am so excited to share all the amazing experiences Dingle has to offer, in hopes this program can change someone’s life for the better, as it did for me!

Molly McDonald | English

Hi! My name is Molly McDonald and I'm from Mansfield, Massachusetts. I studied in Dingle, Ireland in 2025 during the spring semester and first summer session. I am currently a junior English major in the 4+1 Dual Degree program for Secondary Education with a minor in Irish studies. On campus, I'm a part of SHU band and color guard, Tri Delta, Kappa Kappa Psi, and am an Orientation Leader and FYE assistant. Coming to Sacred Heart, I always knew I wanted to study abroad. I had no idea the impact it would have on me. In my application to the semester program, I included a personal statement writing, “I do not want to go to Sacred Heart in Dingle to simply be somewhere other than the Fairfield campus; I want to truly experience Dingle, and all that Ireland has to offer.” I feel confident in saying I experienced more than what I thought was possible. Now as a Global Ambassador, I'm excited to share why studying abroad will forever be one of my favorite memories from college.

Shay Saltzman | Strategic Communication, Public Relations, & Advertising

Hi, my name is Shay Saltzman, and I am majoring in Strategic Communication, Public Relations, and Advertising at Sacred Heart University. Along with being a Global Ambassador, I am also a member of the sorority Kappa Delta. I studied abroad during my sophomore year in Spring 2025, and it was one of the most meaningful experiences of my college career. During the application process, I was very nervous about being far from home and living in a different country. However, my comfort with independence at Sacred Heart and my love for traveling encouraged me to take a chance. Looking back, studying abroad was the best decision I made at SHU, and Dingle quickly became a second home. While abroad, I was able to immerse myself in the local culture through my coursework and gain hands-on experience working with a local business called Dingle Sea Safari. This opportunity taught me so much and provided valuable real-world experience that connects directly to my future career. The locals were incredibly warm and welcoming, and the town itself was beautiful, colorful, and full of life. I was pleasantly surprised by how amazing the food was, which made the transition even more rewarding. This experience helped me grow in confidence, independence, and perspective, and it changed my life in so many positive ways. I am passionate about encouraging other students to step outside of their comfort zones and take advantage of the incredible opportunities that studying abroad offers.

SHU Dingle - Spring, Nursing

Luna Annunziata | Nursing

Hi! I'm Luna, and I'm a senior nursing student with minors in Honors and Human Clinical Nutrition. During my sophomore year, I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland for a semester, and it became one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I remember arriving knowing I was starting the journey on my own, but I never expected to leave with some of my closest friends and a place that truly felt like home. My time in Dingle pushed me to become more independent, open-minded, and confident while allowing me to experience new cultures in a way I will never forget.

Samantha Egger | Nursing

Hi everyone! My name is Samantha and I am a senior nursing major. Crazy to think that I went to Dingle almost two years ago however Dingle truly was the best time of my life! More about me is that I am from Northern New Jersey and I love to golf and spend time with my family! I was on the fence about studying abroad but I truly met my best friends while I was there and came home feeling very fulfilled. I was really nervous about balancing school work and travel however thanks to the community and resources in Dingle I was able to work hard during the week and explore and relax on the weekends! This is a once in a life experience that truly changed my life.

Grace Hess | Nursing

Hi everyone! My name is Grace and I am a nursing major, with a minor in honors. At Sacred Heart, I am peer mentor for the nursing program, a recruitment counselor for my sorority and I am also a student ambassador. I am from Milford, Connecticut. I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland. It was the best four months of my entire life. Also when I was over there I traveled to Italy, and France as well. I've known since I started looking at Sacred Heart, I wanted to do the semester in Dingle, and I am so glad that I did it. I was very nervous adjusting to the culture, and doing my nursing classes. But I was able to work hard and use all of my resources and had of success over there. As well as my clinical over there taught me so much about the Irish healthcare and how different it is compared to America healthcare. Which helped me become a more well rounded nurse.

Ellie Kayal | Nursing

Hi my name is Ellie Kayal, I am a junior nursing student and I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland! Some things that I love to do is workout, shop, hangout with friends and bake! Some of my favorite memories aboard have been going to the pub with my friends, meeting the locals and being able to travel through out Europe! Travel has taught me so much about myself, different cultures and how other countries operate differently. Being able to study abroad in Dingle has brought me a new perspective of life that I truly will never forget. I'm looking forward to answering any questions you guys have and I'm so excited to be apart of your travel abroad journey!

Ingrid Lazo Clara | Nursing

Hi! My name is Ingrid Lazo Clara, and I am a nursing major from Princeton, New Jersey. Outside of school, I love spending time with family and friends, reading, and going to the beach. During the spring 2026 semester, I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Dingle, Ireland. I had dreamed of studying abroad since my freshman year because I would be able to combine my goal of becoming a nurse with my passion for travel. While studying abroad in Dingle, I achieved all those goals while also creating friendships and memories of a lifetime! I had always been nervous about how to balance a demanding major with travel, but by being surrounded by those with similar aspirations, I learned skills that I will carry into my future in nursing and beyond. I’m so excited to share more about my experience abroad and help students feel supported and confident as they join a truly life-changing program!

Sarah Long | Nursing

Hi! My name is Sarah Long, and I am a senior nursing major with a minor in Nutrition. I am from Hanover, Massachusetts, and in the spring of 2025, I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Dingle, Ireland. I chose to become a Global Ambassador because I want to share my incredible experience abroad with other students–especially nursing majors who may not think studying abroad is possible. Dingle is the most breathtaking place I have ever seen, and after a few months, it truly felt like my second home. While I was abroad, I also had the chance to travel around Europe, which was unforgettable, but nothing compared to my time in Dingle. Outside of school, I enjoy working out, traveling, hanging out with friends and family, and playing hockey. Studying abroad in Dingle was the best decision I’ve ever made–it truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I cannot wait to go back!

Katherine Stewart | Nursing

Hi! My name is Katherine Stewart, and I am a senior nursing major. I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland in the Spring of 2025 which was my sophomore year, and I can say without a doubt it was the best decision I have ever made. I am also committed to the nursing study abroad program in Ghana, Africa in October 2026 and I am eager to experience the healthcare system and culture there. While studying in Ireland, I was able to prioritize my difficult nursing classes while still being able to enjoy the town of Dingle and many other countries during my free time which made my experience that much better. On campus, I am involved in Alpha Delta Pi sorority, Dance Ensemble, and Student Nurses Association. Some of my favorite things to do at Sacred Heart include seeing friends on campus, going to Jennings Beach and downtown Fairfield, and SHU hockey games! I am so excited to share my experiences with you all and help you find the best study abroad program for you.

SHU Dingle - Summer

Ryan Buchan | Music

My name is Ryan and I am from East Islip, New York. I am a senior music major, going into the special education masters program. I studied abroad in Dingle during a Summer 2025 program taking a two-week course, and am hoping to return to Dingle for a winter session this December. I love to run, listen to music, play video games, and travel!

McKenzie Moore | Finance & Accounting

My name is McKenzie Moore, and I am a junior studying finance & accounting. I studied abroad during the summer of 2026 in Dingle, Ireland, and it was one of the most fun experiences of my life! I met some of the nicest girls, and I enjoyed exploring all of Dingle. I love hiking, traveling, Pilates, and reading. Traveling really broadens my perspective, and I love embracing new cultures. I am so excited to share my experiences with people who might be interested!

Olivia Spirakis | Marketing and Strategic Communication, Public Relations & Advertising

Hi! My name is Olivia Spirakis, and I am a senior, majoring in Marketing and Strategic Communications, Public Relations, and Advertising. On campus, I am part of the Track & Field team, as well as the Public Relations Society of America and Women in Business Network. Being an athlete, I was worried I wouldn’t have the opportunity to take advantage of SHU’s study abroad program, but Dingle’s two-week sessions are the perfect way! This summer, I was able to make unforgettable memories, explore new places, broaden my knowledge on Global Marketing, and foster amazing connections between both classmates and locals. Dingle has been my favorite opportunity Sacred Heart has to offer, and I cannot recommend studying there enough!

Deven Taggart | Health Science & Public Health

Hello! My name is Deven Taggart, and I am a Junior studying Health Science: Public Health Concentration with minors in Chemistry and Honors. I have studied abroad in Dingle for short-term 2-week programs in the Summer of 2024 and the Summer of 2025, and this is my second year as a global ambassador. Studying abroad was a transformative experience that allowed me to learn more about myself and my own personal capabilities. Dingle will forever have my heart, and I cannot wait to introduce more people to the love that it has shown me!

SHU Dingle - Winter

Ava Ciauro | Communication Disorders

Hi! My name is Ava Ciauro and I am studying Speech, Language, and Hearing sciences, minoring in psychology. I've studied in Dingle, Ireland for both Summer and Winter short-term sessions. I am also on the rowing team, in Kappa Alpha Theta, and am a peer tutor on campus. Being an athlete, I was worried I wouldn't have the opportunity to take advantage of SHU's study abroad programs. However, the two-week sessions are a perfect way to still have the global experience. I was able to make unforgettable memories and foster amazing connections between my peers and locals. There are so many ways for you to make the most of your experience and truly dive into your new environment. These experiences have taught me so much about myself and the cultures around me, and I cannot recommend Dingle enough!

Aaleyah McCulloch | Biology

Hi! My name is Aaleyah, I am a senior majoring in biology on the pre-medicine track, minoring in criminal justice and chemistry. I love to cook, bake, try international food and desserts, step outside of my comfort zone, and explore new places! The winter of my freshman year, I studied in Dingle, Ireland for two weeks, and during my freshman year spring break I did community service in Costa Rica. Going abroad during my winter break gave me the confidence to do a semester abroad. During the fall of my sophomore year, I took a “gap semester” and did Semester at Sea. An external study abroad program, which has many similarities to the CIEE open campus block, where you can study abroad to multiple countries in one semester. I've made lifelong memories, grew and learned so much, and made so many connections. Studying abroad has been one of the best decisions of my life.

CIEE Kyoto - Spring

Benjamin Lam | Accounting

I studied abroad in Kyoto, Japan, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. Traveling and meeting new people definitely made the experience worth it.

John Cabot University Rome - Spring

Sofia Biondi | Fashion Marketing & Merchandising and Business Economics

Hi! My name is Sofia Biondi, and I am so happy to be a Global Ambassador! I am a senior from Staten Island, New York, majoring in Fashion Marketing & Merchandising and Business Economics. After studying abroad in Dingle, Ireland during the summer 2024 session, I quickly realized how rewarding traveling, and specifically studying abroad, truly is. Because of that life-changing experience, I decided to study abroad for a second time during the spring 2025 semester at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. I am a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and the Thomas More Honors Program. I have a passion for fashion and deep fascination with cultural education. I love learning about different cultures and their unique forms of expression through outlets such as fashion as well as traditions or other outlets of expression. Studying abroad granted me the opportunity to not only learn about or experience different cultures, but truly be immersed in them. Studying abroad was the most transformative and rewarding experience of my life, and I am so excited to help guide fellow study abroad students through their own journeys!

Carolena Canale | Business Management and Economics

Hi! My name is Carolena Canale, and I am from Oswego, New York. I am a senior this year, double-majoring in Business Management and Economics. Spring semester 2025, my junior year, I had the chance to study abroad in Rome, Italy. This was one of my first opportunities to travel abroad, and I knew no one else doing the program before leaving, but I am so thankful, and I was able to create lasting friendships. Taking classes and living abroad for four months really allowed me to create a routine and immerse myself in the culture, yet gave me enough time to travel to new places as well. I made memories and shared experiences with people whom I will never forget. I am eager to return abroad, but especially to my home base, Rome, Italy.

Brigid Gawley | Interdisciplinary Studies

My name is Brigid Gawley and I had the opportunity to Study Abroad in Rome, Italy for the spring semester! It was truly one of the greatest experiences of my life. I learned so much about Italian culture but also many other countries traditions. My favorite part was meeting all new people and saying yes to everything. I also learned so much about myself and learned so many life skills that will help me in the future with my major and in life.

Kristine Haroutunian | Elementary Education

Hi! My name is Kristine Haroutunian, and I am from Ramsey, New Jersey. I am a junior Elementary Education major with an Honors minor. At SHU, I am also a member of Education Club, Kappa Alpha Theta, and the SEED Program. I studied abroad in Rome, Italy at John Cabot University during the spring 2026 semester. Studying abroad was one of the most rewarding experiences and gave me the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, experience a new culture, and create unforgettable memories. I loved exploring Rome, trying new foods, traveling to different cities, and experiencing everyday life in Italy. As someone who loves to travel and experience different cultures, studying abroad showed me just how much the world has to offer. I am so excited to help other students discover that for themselves!

Zaiden James | Business Economics and Marketing

Hi! My name is Zaiden, and I’m a student who loves meeting new people, exploring new places, and making meaningful memories along the way. I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Rome, Italy, where I was able to experience a new culture while also learning more about myself. Living in Rome gave me the chance to step outside of my comfort zone, explore beautiful and historic places, try new foods, and connect with people from different backgrounds.

Isabella Schifano | Finance & Fashion Marketing and Merchandising 

Hi! My name is Isabella Schifano, and I am a Finance and Fashion Marketing and Merchandising double major with a minor in Business Law at Sacred Heart University. The summer going into my junior year, I studied Global Luxury Retailing at the Paris American Academy in Paris. I later spent the spring semester of my junior year studying at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. Both experiences allowed me to explore my love for fashion, travel, and learning about different cultures. Studying abroad pushed me outside of my comfort zone, helped me become more independent, and gave me friendships and memories that I will carry with me forever. Some of my favorite moments included exploring new cities, trying local foods, and experiencing everyday life in another country. I know studying abroad can feel overwhelming at first, so I am excited to help other students feel more confident, prepared, and excited as they begin their own experience.

John Cabot University Rome - Summer

Cooper Callahan | Finance and Economics

My name is Cooper Callahan and I studied in Rome, Italy, during Summer 1. I am a Finance major and also on the lacrosse team, so being able to take advantage of this opportunity was super important to me. I also love traveling and making new experiences, so studying abroad was the perfect time to do both of those things! I enjoyed meeting new people during my time abroad as well as eating a lot of good food from different countries.

Madison Campbell | Nursing

Hi! My name is Madison Campbell, and I am from Marlton, NJ. I am a junior nursing major with a minor in honors. On campus, I am a part of Delta Zeta, where I currently hold a chair position, Student Nurse Association, SHU Lemon Club, and even Relay for Life. I love going to the beach, reading, and just hanging out with my friends! I studied abroad in Italy through the two week Sustainable Italy program. Here, we were mainly located in the Cinque Terre region, but also visited locations like Rome, Florence, and even Parma. Studying abroad definitely allowed me to go outside of my comfort zone, but truly was the best experience. If given the opportunity, everyone should apply and go abroad!

Olivia Cavallo | Marketing and Fashion Marketing & Merchandising

Hi! I’m Olivia, a senior at SHU studying Marketing and Fashion Marketing & Merchandising with a minor in Advertising and Public Relations. I studied abroad in Rome, Italy, living in the beautiful neighborhood of Trastevere, and had the best experience! During my time abroad, I met people from all over the country and world who were studying through different schools and programs. I loved exploring Rome, experiencing different cultures, trying new foods, and traveling on the weekends. Some of my favorite trips were to Ibiza, Paris, the Amalfi Coast, and Florence. Beyond traveling, studying abroad taught me so much about independence, adaptability, and myself. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career, and I highly recommend it to anyone considering going abroad. I would love to help make your experience just as amazing!

Alexa DeStefano | Psychology

My name is Alexa DeStefano, and I am a senior Psychology major with a minor in Social Work. I studied abroad during the Summer I program in Rome, Italy, where I had the opportunity to experience a new culture, meet new people, and create memories that I will always cherish. Studying abroad allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and see the world from a new perspective. Outside of academics, I love traveling, going on hikes, spending time with my friends, and playing volleyball. I am passionate about connecting with others and making the most out of every experience. As a Global Ambassador, I hope to share my experiences and encourage other students to take the leap, explore somewhere new, and make their own unforgettable memories abroad!

Kate Harrison | Exercise Science

Hi! My name is Katherine Harrison, and I'm from Hopewell Junction, New York. I'm a junior, who is majoring in Exercise Science with minors in Psychology and Honors! This past summer, I had the amazing opportunity to spend five weeks studying abroad in Rome, Italy at John Cabot University! Although studying abroad was a big step outside of my comfort zone, it was one of the best decisions I could have made during college! Immersing myself in a new country broadened my perspective and taught me to be open-minded and grateful for different cultures and experiences, qualities that I know will benefit me throughout my life and future career. I was able to visit so many places outside of Rome and create lasting memories with my friends that I will remember and cherish forever! In addition to being a Global Ambassador, I am the secretary of the SHU Lemon Club and a member of the Biology Club, Exercise Science Club, and Pre-Health Community Honors. When I'm not doing something academic-related, I love attending workout classes, going for walks, reading, baking, and trying new coffee places! I can't wait to share my experience with other students because you truly never know how much a new city or country can impact you and change the way you view the world!

Cassandra Kosakowski | Accounting

Hi! My name is Cassandra Kosakowski and I am a Senior here at Sacred Heart University. I live in San Juan, Puerto Rico, but I am originally from Rhode Island. I am an accounting and finance major. I spent the summer of my freshman year studying abroad at John Cabot University in Rome and the spring of my sophomore year at the SHU Dingle. I was able to travel to some amazing places and meet lifelong friends. On campus, I am a part of the Theatre Arts Program, Accounting Club and Alpha Phi Omega! I consider studying abroad to be one of the best decisions I have ever made in college! I encourage everyone to try and be a part of this amazing opportunity!

Landry Lorne | Exercise Science

Hi! My name is Landry Lorne, and I am a senior from Berkeley Heights, New Jersey, majoring in Exercise Science. This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad for six weeks at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy, and it truly was the experience of a lifetime. Living in a new country allowed me to immerse myself in a different culture, experience life outside of the United States, and grow in ways I never expected. One of the most rewarding parts of my experience was traveling abroad on my own without knowing anyone else in the program. Although I was initially nervous, stepping outside of my comfort zone helped me become more independent, confident, and open to new experiences. I love exploring new places, exercising, and spending time with family and friends. I am so excited to be a Global Ambassador and to encourage others to take the leap and make memories of their own!

Francesca Luce | Elementary Education

Hi! My name is Francesca Luce and I am a senior here at Sacred Heart. I am majoring in elementary education and have minors in honors and psychology. At Sacred Heart I am involved in the First-Year Programs, Global Ambassadors, work study, and Tri Delta. I recently participated in Summer 1 study abroad program at JCU in Rome, Italy. I love going to the beach, shopping, cooking, reading, crafting, hanging out with my friends, and getting to explore new places. My favorite memory from study abroad was meeting all of my friends and being able to immerse myself in the culture that is such a major part of my family heritage. I loved meeting locals as well!

Sustainable Italy? Tourism, Agriculture, & Local Cultures in a Warming World - Summer

Elena Arduino | Financial Technology and Analytics

Hi everyone! My name is Elena Arduino, and I’m a Financial Technology & Analytics major with an Accounting minor from Mahwah, New Jersey. Studying abroad has been one of the most defining parts of my college experience! I’ve had the opportunity to travel across Scandinavia and Ireland with the SHU Orchestra, participate in short-term programs in Dingle, and engage in volunteer service-learning trips to Greece and Costa Rica. I also completed the Sustainable Italy course, exploring local culture and sustainability. On campus, I’m involved as vice president of the Accounting Club, a cellist in the orchestra, and a member of Kappa Kappa Psi. I love playing music, staying active, traveling, and making new connections along the way. Taking the leap to go abroad helped me grow so much in confidence and gave me an incredible global perspective, so I am very excited to help prospective students navigate their options and find the perfect program to create their own unforgettable memories!

Amelia Gaibor | Global Health

I’m Amelia and I’m a senior who studied abroad in Dingle, Italy, and Kenya. Other service trips I’ve been on were Guatemala and Colombia where instead of taking a class, I worked with the local community and provided them support along with medical care. Outside of that, I am part of the theater program here at SHU and am involved in many unity clubs!!

Fashion Brand Marketing in Milan - Summer

Kaelin Brennan | Fashion Marketing and Merchandising

Hi! My name is Kaelin Brennan, and I’m from Foxborough, Massachusetts. I’m a junior at Sacred Heart University studying Fashion Marketing and Merchandising with minors in Dance and Digital Marketing. This past summer, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Milan, Italy, for two weeks taking the fashion buying course. While there, I explored the world of luxury retail and gained a deeper understanding of fashion, buying, and the global fashion industry. At Sacred Heart, I’m involved in Dance Ensemble, Alpha Delta Pi, and Fashion Club. While studying abroad, I was able to deepen my love for fashion and was able to find my love of traveling. While only studying abroad for a short time, I was still able to make experiences for a lifetime and meet some amazing friends. I’m excited to share my experience and encourage other students to step outside their comfort zone and discover what studying abroad can offer!

CIEE Barcelona- Summer

Belinda Ein | Health Science

Hi! My name is Belinda and I'm a senior health science major from Bergen County, New Jersey. I studied abroad during summer 2025 in Barcelona, Spain, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences. While I was there, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Spanish culture, explore the city and the architecture, and connect with both local students and students from all over the U.S. in the same program. During my time in Barcelona, I travelled to France, Monaco, and I explored the coast of Spain, including the island of Mallorca. I was constantly stepping out of my comfort zone, and doing so helped me grow and experience things I never imagined. Studying abroad not only allowed me to see more of the world, but it also gave me a new perspective on life.