There’s only so much you can learn about a place from photos, presentations, or secondhand stories, but in the year since joining FIE as Marketing Director, I had the privilege of experiencing FIE’s study abroad locations firsthand — visiting Madrid, Dublin, Northern Ireland, and our headquarters in London. It was my first time seeing our sites in person, and each stop deepened my appreciation for the people, partnerships, and places that make our programs special.
A Warm Welcome in Madrid
I began in Madrid, where I was immediately immersed in local life, practicing Spanish over tapas, walking through Plaza de España, and soaking in panoramic views from the rooftop at Círculo de Bellas Artes. Meeting our Spain Site Director Arturo for the first time gave me a clear sense of the care and energy he brings to our programs in Madrid. His local knowledge, thoughtful approach, and our collaboration with Universidad de Nebrija are a big part of what makes the experience in Madrid so meaningful. It’s no wonder Spain continues to be a top destination for study abroad.
Academic Excellence and Cultural Depth in Dublin
In Dublin, I connected with colleagues and visited Binary Hub, where many of our students live. I also met with our university partners Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and Dublin Business School learning more about each's distinct academic opportunities. A highlight was sitting in on Professor Donal’s Irish Life and Culture class at DBS, which included a mock election and deep dives into Irish history and politics. I found that this experience tied directly into FIE’s summer Peace and Conflict program, which begins in Ireland and continues in Amman, equipping students with tools to engage thoughtfully in global conflict resolution.
From the Giant’s Causeway to Glenshane Farm
The study tour to Northern Ireland was especially powerful. At the Giant’s Causeway, I witnessed the kind of natural beauty that leaves a lasting impression. At Glenshane Country Farm, I saw how storytelling and tradition are woven into everyday life, as a local farmer with his dogs demonstrated expert sheep herding with remarkable precision. These authentic experiences highlight the cultural richness that defines our programming and I'm excited to help tell this story.
London: The Heart of FIE
I wrapped up my journey in London, staying in Metrogate’s student accommodations and commuting just like our students do. I spent time across our Kensington Campus, working from Foundation House and meeting colleagues from our experiential education to student life teams, getting a full picture of how FIE supports students every step of the way. Even with a packed schedule, I squeezed in time to see some of the city including Big Ben, Borough Market, the Tower of London and celebrated Thanksgiving British-style with fish and chips. The festive lights during the holiday season made for an excellent send-off.
Throughout this journey, what stood out most was the passion of our staff and the deep-rooted partnerships we’ve built across every location. FIE isn’t just about study abroad, it’s about creating intentional, impactful learning experiences rooted in cultural immersion and care.
Interested in bringing your own students abroad with FIE?
Whether you're planning a faculty-led course, a first-year program, or looking for a partner to design a custom international experience, FIE is here to help. Learn more about how we support custom and institutional programs here.
