Study Veterinary Medicine & Science Abroad

Studying abroad in Scotland through the University of Kentucky’s equine program and Adelante Abroad was truly the adventure of a lifetime. I had never traveled outside the country on my own before, so this was a big step outside my comfort zone. I expected to learn a lot about horses, but the friendships, travel, and my time in Ecclesmachan ended up meaning so much to me. The teachers made us feel welcome from the beginning. They were friendly, supportive, and easy to talk to, which made asking questions and trying unfamiliar things feel more comfortable. I loved how interactive the learning was. We labeled bones and muscles directly on the horses and monitored their fitness levels, which helped connect what we were learning about anatomy and physiology to the horses we worked with each day. We even rode a robotic horse to work on our positioning in the saddle, which was such a fun and unique way to learn. Our professors, Louise and Rowan, would drive us in a 15-passenger van for our outings and trips to Aldi to pick up groceries. Piling into the van together made even a simple grocery run feel like a fun part of the trip. It was such a different experience from college life back home, and those little moments with everyone are some of the ones I remember most fondly. I hadn’t ridden since high school, so getting back in the saddle was something I was especially excited about. During the program, I got to ride Billy, Eric, Maddie, Jeff, Brennagh, Chino, and Fern. I had never ridden so many different horses, and that ended up being one of the coolest parts of the experience. Each one felt different and had something new to teach me. Learning to adjust my riding to each horse helped me become a better, more confident rider, and I loved getting to know them along the way. Our riding instructors, Alison and Samantha, helped me grow so much as a rider. We also got to go on a trail ride around the property, which was such a nice way to enjoy the scenery from horseback. At the end of the program, I rode Chino in our competition and placed second! After being away from riding for so long, that was really encouraging and made me proud of how much I had progressed. There was also so much arranged for us outside of class. We went to the races at Perth, saw the Kelpies, visited the Royal Highland Show, and watched a show jumping competition at The Scottish National Equestrian Centre. Those activities gave us a chance to experience Scotland’s agricultural communities and see more of the global sporthorse industry firsthand. Still, some of the moments I miss most are the ordinary ones on the Oatridge campus. We became close with the other girls in the program from Mizzou and spent so much time exploring the farm property. We legitimately frolicked through fields and made friends with the sheep and cows on our many daily walks. It was so peaceful there, and I loved just being outside and taking it all in. Two of my closest UK friends are girls I bonded with on this trip, and we still say, “Love you to Ecclesmachan and back.” I had never been anywhere quite like it and don't think anywhere else could compare. We definitely made the most of our weekends, too. We went into Edinburgh countless times, explored the university, found some wonderful places to eat, and somehow managed to have Knoops (the best hot chocolate) at least once a day! We also spent a day in North Berwick, walking every inch of the little beach town. During three days in London, we visited Borough Market, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace, rode a double-decker bus, and did plenty of shopping in Soho. Then, in less than 48 hours in Ireland, we tried Guinness for the first time, went to the Irish Whiskey Museum, and visited Trinity College. We fit a lot into those short trips, and exploring together gave us even more memories (and souvenirs) to bring home. After the program ended, my dad met me for another week of traveling. We explored the Isle of Skye, including Portree, and visited Golspie, Inverness, John o’ Groats, and Talisker Distillery. Having that time with him was such a special way to end the trip, and I’ll always be grateful we got to share those experiences. When I think about Scotland now, I think about both the big adventures and the little routines we built while we were there. I loved getting back into riding, learning from people who encouraged us, and spending my days with new friends in a place that became so familiar. I came home more independent and confident, with friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. I would go back and do it all again in a heartbeat!

I arrived in Lebanon as a high school graduate who had never traveled abroad alone, who did not speak Arabic, and who was full of nerves about what lay ahead. I expected to feel lost and overwhelmed, but the truth was exactly the opposite. The moment I stepped into campus, I fell in love, i wandered around campus for a week straight discovering new parts of it. People with warmth that I never really saw elsewhere, from first day on AUB became my home. Friends, teachers, and even strangers on campus made room for me as if I had always belonged, and the campus quickly stopped feeling like a place I was visiting and started feeling like a place I was meant to be. I found myself at AUB; I became a living part of this campus, and it became a living part of me. There were challenges along the way, as there always are, but each one made me stronger, braver, more patient, and more open to the world, and together they shaped me into the best version of myself. Had it was not for AUB, I could never imagine myself pushing through this journey... During my studies the country fell into war not once but twice, yet AUB was running, it was my first time witnessing the state of war, there were days where I wanted to leave, yet my professors and peers pushing through to ensure our academics don't fall behind made me stay. "Impressed" was an understatement, Amidst chaos AUB was here giving us glimpse of a bright future. It was this assurance which taught me not to give up. For what i must say this indeed has been the most rewarding and eye-opening chapter of my life, and it is the reason I call AUB my second home. Studying here was never just about earning a degree; it is about the experience of being a part of AUB, a community that welcomes you, believes in you, and changes you for the better. If you are standing where I once stood, nervous and unsure, I assure you to take the leap, because it will give you a home, a community, and a version of yourself you are proud of. I will admire this university, it will always be a second home I'd go back to.

I went on the 22 day veterinary experience! My mom wanted me to see how life in a vet career would look like and so she sent me on this trip. I wasn’t scared at first, not really wanting to go at all and being far away from my family especially with the limited phone time. In the end, I wished for the trip to last just a bit longer, just one more week or maybe too. I had a great group, I made a ton of friends despite being worried I would have trouble, everyone that goes on this trip will have something in common with you which is they all see themselves in the vet career. I really learned a lot about myself on this trip, knowing how to be independent from your parents, how to deal with stressful situations, applying what I learnt in our daily vet lessons to practice…everyday I reread my journal from that trip so I can pretend that I’m still there. Each place we went to was different, some places we really learned how living in the hot jungle is like with little AC, the traditions of the country, the wildlife, the different activities. There wasn’t a day I think back on and wish I didn’t have, the good and the bad. I sweat a ton and learned to take cold showers. I loved our lessons! Not only did I feel I was actually already in vet school, learning content from horses to cows and exotics, but then later applying what I learnt. I got to stick my hand up a cows butt, zip line upside down, go galloping for the first time with Akila (working at the stables was the best part of this trip, the people are wonderful), watching spays and neuters, having Abuelita feed us at the clinic, watching the World Cup whenever we can at the restaurants…we even got to have breakfast for dinner one day at the Airbnb! There were moments when I was bored out of my mind, but boredom makes you creative. Instead of being on my phone I would read, watch the scenery, sing along, talk to my friends….and I didn’t miss home as much as I thought I would because this experience really makes you to busy for it and you have to much fun. I would tell anyone that wants to be a vet or just likes animals to do this trip, I would do it all over again. I would however suggest you learn some Spanish beforehand, you really get to connect on a different level with the people that way.

My time in Italy was one of the most amazing, life-changing, and enjoyable experiences I have ever had. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to visit Italy for the first time, especially since it was also my first time flying on an airplane. I loved how affordable the program was for everything that was included. We traveled throughout Central Italy, enjoyed amazing food and accommodations, and were guided by caring faculty and tour guides who truly wanted us to have the best experience possible. This trip gave me unforgettable memories, new friendships, and experiences that I will always be grateful for.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewOctober 09, 2026

Grazie, Samuel! We are so glad to hear this trip made such an impact on you, and we can't wait to hear about your plans moving forward!

I had an unforgettable time in Italy with Molise Italian Studies. It was my first time visiting a country outside of the United States, so I was a little worried at first. However, the program was so well run and smooth that I soon had no worries whatsoever. Our guide, Andrea, was excellent and our trip would not have been what it was without him. I would highly recommend Molise Italian Studies to any one who is interested in Italian culture, history, or exploring another country.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewOctober 09, 2026

Grazie Jay! We are glad you had a great trip and we passed along your gratitude to Andrea!

My study abroad experience to Italy was incredible. I had met so many new amazing people and new connections. Our tour guide, Andrea, was very helpful, patient, and kind throughout the whole trip. I am very grateful to be chosen to attend this trip.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewOctober 09, 2026

Grazie Luisana! We are glad you had a great trip and we passed along your gratitude to Andrea!

My experience studying abroad in Molise Italy was absolutely life-changing. I learned so much about culture, made lifetime, friendships, and endless memories. Getting to experience the culture and beauty of Molise was the absolute highlight of my summer.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewJuly 21, 2026

Grazie, Breanna! Colli really is beautiful and it's such a great partnership!

The Molise Italian Studies program was a wonderful way to be immersed in the Molise region, some of the Puglia region, and Rome. By visiting some of the smaller, lesser-known areas in these regions, I got to see firsthand how people live, work, and support their communities through the activities and social work experiences. I can say I grew as a person and have a new outlook on my everyday life at home. It was evident that Italians in these regions value community and connection. I appreciated the opportunities to participate in activities at some of the agencies, such as at LAI and in Capracotta, rather than simply observing the activity. Our tour leader, Andrea, was kind, patient, organized, and knowledgeable throughout the entire trip.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewJuly 05, 2026

Grazie, Maggie! We are so glad to hear this trip made such an impact on you, and we can't wait to hear about your plans moving forward!

I had an absolutely amazing time; I made so many incredible memories that I truly won't ever forget. The friendships I made were so awesome, and the opportunities to experience true culture were life-changing. Both of my professors were absolutely wonderful, and our guide was incredible. Everyone was so amazing and truly tried their best to give us the most rewarding experience possible, and they exceeded my dreams.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewJuly 05, 2026

Grazie, Alex!

Myself and my colleague brought a group of ten university students on a trip with Molise, and we could not be happier! Our guides were knowledgeable and kind. Every single person we encountered along the way as we traveled was welcoming and gracious. So many laughs were shared amongst our students and the Italian community, and we never once felt as if we were not in steady, capable hands with the company. Upon returning home from Italy, we immediately arranged our next trip with Scott and Megan, and plan to continue this trip regularly to allow students to continue to experience all the amazing things our first group did.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewJuly 05, 2026

Thank you, Jen! Looking forward to working with Wilkes again in 2027!

As a student who dreamed of going abroad for years, I never considered a trip like this would be at my fingertips. Many know that traveling abroad is a big decision because it involves location costs return of investment and with being in school of the timeline of when it’s going to happen. I decided to make my minor Hotel restaurant management sophomore year of college, but wasn’t sure of how I was still going to make my broad dream come true. Fall semester of 2024 when I was in one of my HRM studies I wondered what options there could be to study the subject abroad. That’s when I discovered the Molise Italian Studies program NAU in Italy: Economics of Gastronomy. After promptly siding up, I was introduced to a fully guided program with pre-arrival meetings that fully explained the details and necessary precautions of going abroad. Which included an itinerary of the daily activities the lessons that would be focused on and places of accommodation. All details, which transferred extremely well into the actual trip. Each lesson was fully in depth and offered different opportunities. My favorite day was probably the day we visited Di Iorio Tartufi - Italian Truffle where we learned how truffles were safely found and made into a meal. I came home with at least 5 jars!! I highly enjoyed the environment, the greenery, and absolutely the delicious assortment of truffle products. At the end of the day, this program offered me a week of excitement and verity of locations across molise. I couldn’t have asked for a better program to introduce me to the world of traveling.

Molise Italian Studies responded to this reviewJuly 05, 2026

Grazie, Cialyn! So glad to be a part of your HRM journey (& we dream of truffles too)!

I had a pretty great semester at UL. I thoroughly enjoyed the classes and the professors, but also learned a lot about myself and the Irish people. I joined the Christian Union pretty early on and was welcomed into fellowship with that group. I accompanied some friends of that group into smaller towns I may not have otherwise visited and helped lead churches playing piano. I was welcomed into homes and I really felt loved. I also got to see much of the countryside and felt it easy to travel around to sight see. My time in Ireland is a time where I grew in knowing myself but also my understanding of the world. I loved learning Irish traditions, culture, and history, and I know that I could never know nearly as much by staying home.

I have had the best experience and will recommend that everyone apply and try to come on this study abroad trip to see for themselves. It was worth the money 1000% with memories that will never go away and new friends for life. Everyone I've met on this trip has been super nice and welcoming, students and staff alike. This trip is also pretty unique as for it's independent nature, being able to go explore everywhere myself has been super invigorating.

This month has transformed me as a person and has led me to enjoy the simple things in life. I appreciate the morning riding sessions, classes with low-stress teaching style's and being around so many new people. Scotland and the city of Edinburgh are beautiful, but I would warn future students that it can be very costly and timely to travel, even to Edinburgh. You will need to budget more than what is recommended to get the full experience and learn how to use the buses and trains once you arrive. SRUC is not in the city, so it's important to learn how to travel, etc. Overall, the scenery is beautiful, peaceful and I've met lifelong friends. I would recommend this program to any horse lover.

My experience was one of a kind and I loved every little bit about this experience. The campus, the staff, fellow students, and the horses were amazing and made my time abroad even more exciting. I had not ridden in 7 years before coming here and rode western when I had. I am so amazed by the amount I have learned from the staff and the horses. I am leaving knowing how to trot in English saddle and do a dressage pattern. The academics part was so hands on and fun to learn. Getting to learn all the systems, muscles, and bones on a horse was probably my favorite part and I cannot wait to use it in the real world back in the states. I got to immerse myself in the Scottish culture by going to towns and cities throughout Scotland and appreciate Scotland's beautiful landscape. Also, I was able to take a trip to London and Dublin that was so much fun! I loved this experience so much and I will be grateful forever for all the friends I have made!!

Studying abroad in Scotland has made me look at life differently. I knew it would be life changing but its impossible to know how until you've experienced it. I've been able to go through this experience with the most wonderful group of girls who have been nothing short of supportive. The sixteen girls I've bet through this program will be friendships that will last a long time because we have bonded in a way different than most people. Being able to go out and do our own thing has really made this experience more personable and that's where a lot of the self reflection comes in. I've never been one to get home sick and this experience was no different. The difference though, is in the past I've always been ready to go home after time spent away. That is not the case after staying in Scotland. The staff at SRUC have been amazing and helpful. They expect us to apply our learning and try our best, but they are approachable and helpful. They know all of us by name and really prioritized the opportunity to know their students, even if we were only here a month. The Scottish people have been extremely nice and the areas are safe even when in the cities like Inverness and Edinburgh. The Scottish people are also proud of their culture and want to share it with others. This aspect made me feel very welcome and supported. It was so nice to be able to leave all my worries behind and actually be able to enjoy my time here. I was worries about that in the beginning because I had a hard couple of months before leaving for Scotland, but I am hoping I can bring the joy I've found in this wonderful place with these wonderful people back home with me to the states.

During my time abroad in Scotland, I have made lifelong friends and memories that would not have been made otherwise. I put myself out of my comfort zone and traveled out of the United States alone for the first time while living with 15 other girls who I had not met prior to this trip. With this trip being pretty independent, I was able to travel to lots of different cities and a country, such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Linlithgow, Uphall, and Dublin, Ireland while spending my time here. Everyone who works on SRUC's campus is kind, welcoming, and extremely helpful with any questions we had towards class information, assignments, things to do around Scotland, and more. They made me feel so welcomed while being on campus and I always felt safe, included, and wanted. Being able to ride during this program was also a huge highlight of my experience here. It made me feel more at home and provided us all a sense of comfort and familiarity. I would not have been able to be away from riding and horses for 4 weeks so this inclusion made my time here even more special. I met lifelong friends through this journey and am upset to leave them but so grateful for the blessing of this trip that brought us all together. Overall, I absolutely loved this program, classes, people, and Scotland and am extremely grateful to have been able to spend my month of June here. I will never stop recommending Adalente, SRUC, and Scotland to others and hope I can spend friends here in the future!

This program was so fun and Scotland is an amazing country to visit. The equine summer program was very immersive and life changing. Getting to learn in a hands on way was probably my favorite part. I also loved getting to ride the horses every week, every single horse was amazing and it was so fun to get to know their personality's. The staff was so helpful and made the process very smooth. Everyone in Scotland was very nice and welcoming. Learning about the Scottish culture was a highlight of the trip and id 100% recommend.

Getting the opportunity to participate in this amazing program has been one of the best and most unique experiences of my life. All of the people that I have met here have been nothing short of amazing and I know we have all made lifelong friends. I am so sad that the program is ending and I wish I had gotten a few more weeks to experience scotland. The classes were great and very interactive and the small size of the class made it easy to ask questions and collaborate as a group. The barn was beautiful and the horses and staff were amazing. I loved getting to ride many different types of horses and learn from a variety of people. I know that the time I have spent here has been life changing and I am not only going home with new memories and friends, but also a better version of myself that was all made possible through this program!!

I deeply enjoyed my time here in Scotland and had a blast with the horses and the girls in the trip. While I at first didn't realize how remote the campus was from main areas, we managed to make the best of it and still see a large amount of the surrounding areas. The staff were extremely patient, especially the barn staff who clearly cared deeply about both horse and rider well being. The academics were fun without being too much in a very short amount of time, and felt well structured and taught. The only issues were when a number of us got sick towards the end of the trip and had some difficultly getting medical care, but had a great staff who tried their absolute best! Overall, I enjoyed my experience but wish I had been more prepared coming in.