Emily Syverud '17
A native of St. Paul, Minn., Gustavus Adolphus College senior Emily Syverud found time in her busy schedule to spend a semester in Seville, Spain last spring. Throughout the 20-week experience at the University of Sevilla, Syverud took four classes including the Anthropology of Communication, Urban Anthropology, Contemporary Spanish History, and Spanish Culture and Food.
Syverud, a biology and Spanish double major who hopes to continue to medical school after graduation, knew she wanted to study away in college after spending time in Ireland as a high school student. “It’s impossible to study abroad and be exposed to new cultures and come back as the same person,” she explained. “Learning intercultural and interpersonal understanding opens you up to a new view of the world.”
On her favorite day in Spain, Syverud and a friend rented flamenco dresses to experience the Feria de Sevilla, an annual festival celebrating the city’s history and culture. In addition to the many experiences in Seville and Spain, the study away experience also allowed her to visit Morocco, Denmark, and Ireland, among other countries.
Now back on campus for her senior year, Syverud is reflecting on her time in Spain and preparing to apply to medical school. “One of the things studying away gave me appreciation for is the liberal arts education. I missed the open dialogue and close relationships on campus and I was excited to jump back into classes at Gustavus.”
What’s it like to study away in Seville, Spain? Check out the video to learn more about Syverud’s experience.
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Media Contact: Director of Media Relations and Internal Communication JJ Akin
jakin@gustavus.edu
507-933-7510
