CAPA WORLD

One of the many advantages of studying abroad in Shanghai with CAPA at East China Normal University (ECNU) is the opportunity to engage with other students from all over the world. There are over 100 different nationalities on the campus - in the international dormitories, in Mandarin language classes, in the affordable student cafeterias and in the clubs and societies you'll be welcome to join. 

Another way of mingling with the international crowd is by joining in on the annual ECNU International Culture Festival Talent Show. CAPA's Shanghai Resident Director Colin Speakman, was there up front and center to watch this year's show, take photos and interview, on behalf of CAPA World, a key performer: CAPA's graduate Academic and Program Services Assistant, Tomas Hlinka. 

Tomas combines work for CAPA with studying at ECNU himself on a master's program in Chinese Linguistics. He is in his second year at the university. Hailing from Slovakia, Tomas represented one of 41 nationalities involved in this show.  

Below, Tomas shares story of his journey to Shanghai and his involvement in this special event.

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Kayla Sides is an official CAPA blogger for fall 2016, sharing her story in weekly posts on CAPA World. A psychology major, she is studying abroad in Florence this semester through the custom program at Norco College.

In this week's post, Kayla took the time to sit down for an interview with fellow CAPA student Diana Gomez. 

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Hey everyone! So, for this week I am going to give you guys a little break from me and introduce you all to my friend, Diana Gomez! She is a CAPA Florence student, also from Norco College, and this is her first time studying abroad! Here is a brief interview I had with her, going over her journey to and during her study abroad experience.

KAYLA SIDES: When and why did you decide to study abroad?
DIANA GOMEZ: I’ve always wanted to study abroad… ever since I was 10, actually! I traveled a lot when I was younger, so I knew I wanted to travel on my own when I could. Then, once this opportunity presented itself, it was perfect! I want to step out of my comfort zone and experience different cultures. I want to meet new people and make new memories.

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An Interview with Nancy Carey - Parent of a Study Abroad Alumna

Photo: Nancy in Alaska on a trip with her mother

Meet Nancy Carey, who is interviewed by her daughter Liz Carey, a CAPA alumna. Liz studied abroad in Dublin during Spring semester 2016. Nancy is a Senior Budget Advisor for Hartford Public Schools in Connecticut. She has been traveling for a long time now and has spent time traveling as a family too, especially with Liz. In her spare time, she enjoys baking and reading when she gets the chance. Below, she speaks to Liz about her thoughts when Liz brought up her desire to study abroad, the importance of travel in the world today and some of the personal and professional changes she's noticed in Liz since she returned from Ireland.

Photo: Nancy and Liz together in NY

LIZ CAREY: As a mom, what were some of the initial thoughts you had when I first mentioned studying abroad in Dublin?
NANCY CAREY: I was very excited that this would be a great opportunity for you. I was happy that you had the opportunity to do an internship and to take classes abroad.

LC: That’s it?
NC: Yeah, well, I mean I was proud of you for being accepted and being able to go.

Photo: The whole family together at home

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CAPA Study Abroad Alumna Interview: Samantha Giordano

Meet Samantha, a CAPA Florence study abroad alumna from Indiana University. Below, she tells us what it was like to explore the city specifically as a psychology major, how she was able to build a relationship with a local family through the GANZO! program and what she thought of the food in Italy including a new combination of flavors she never would have thought of putting together before.

CAPA WORLD: Tell us a bit about yourself.
SAMANTHA GIORDANO: I am from Chesterton, Indiana and go to school at Indiana University in Bloomington. I studied abroad in Florence, Italy during spring of 2016. I am a psychology major with minors in counseling and educational studies. I love meeting new people and learning all about them. Traveling, sightseeing, hiking, etc. are some of my absolute favorite things to do!

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An Interview with Kathleen O'Hara - Parent of a Study Abroad Student

Working with international students has given Kathleen O'Hara an open-minded and positive perspective on study abroad. Knowing the benefits of overseas travel from personal experience, she was thrilled when her daughter Liz Hendry decided to spend a semester in Buenos Aires. And when Liz decided to stay on for a second semester in Argentina, Kathleen understood and supported her because she had watched her grow both personally and professionally. Below, she talks about what it's like to be a parent to a study abroad student, some of the challenges she's faced in the process and her advice to others who are looking ahead to a similar journey.

CAPA WORLD: Tell us a bit about yourself.
KATHLEEN O'HARA: I work as an adjunct professor teaching business communications, ESL (English as a Second Language), technical writing and marketing writing courses. Currently, I am teaching international students business communications and customer service courses. My passion is teaching international students; I learn so much about their culture and they are fabulous students. One of the reasons I am thrilled that Liz is studying abroad with CAPA is because I know it will be a life changing and mind expanding experience. I constantly witness the benefits of studying abroad through my international students.

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