Arcadia University first-year and transfer students departed campus on Friday on their way to locations around the world for the annual Preview program.

These two-credit courses incorporate a weeklong international experience over spring break that provides participants with a taste of study abroad. From March 10 to 18, students will spend spring break in Athens, Greece, Brussels, Belgium, Barcelona, Spain, Dublin, Ireland, Edinburgh, Spain, Florence, Italy, London, England, Paris, France, San José, Costa Rica, Seoul, South Korea, and Siracusa, Sicily, studying specific cultural and historical aspects related to each country. 

“My family is Irish, but I’ve never been to Ireland, so this is a great opportunity,” said Kynzie Reichert ‘26, who traveled to Dublin, Ireland. “We’re visiting a lot of ruins and other historical sites, and I’m really excited. I’ve really enjoyed the class so far this year and learning about the history of Dublin and Ireland in general. It’s been a great experience.”

“Studying abroad opportunities are one of the biggest reasons I chose Arcadia University,” said Gabriella Simone ‘26, who traveled to Brussels, Belgium. “It’s my first time going to Europe in general. I’m really excited for the chocolate and waffles.”

In total, the Preview program has sent over 7,500 students to study in 30 different countries, including Cuba, India, Chile, England, France, and South Korea since its inception in 1994. Students have studied topics such as music, fashion, art, literature, film, food, history, education, and politics. The program was paused in 2020 because of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Between then and now, Preview trips were limited to the U.S. and the U.K. 

Students attending Preview are encouraged to take photos and submit the 10 best ones as part of the Preview the World Photo Contest. Vlogs are also accepted. Submissions are due by 5 p.m. on April 7. Winners will be announced during the Global Expo on April 14. Learn more about the contest here.

“I’ve learned about the culture of Ireland this semester, and now I’m looking forward to experiencing it myself,” said Teodor Perez ‘26, who traveled to Dublin. “I’ve been to South America and Europe, but not Europe, so this is a new experience that I’m really excited for.”

A list of the Preview courses can be found here.