Learning in the wider world is a hallmark of a Luther education. From Morocco to Turkey to Tanzania, our students explore new cultures and communities and learn about global issues firsthand. This year, for the first time, first-year students were allowed to participate in off-campus J-Terms: Nordic Tales and Traditions (in Norway) and Theatre in the US (in NYC). They joined hundreds of other Luther students on their journey toward becoming global citizens.
Newelle Dalton ’24, an elementary education major, spent last fall in Norway. She says, “My experience teaching and traveling abroad in Norway made me a more confident and authentic person. I learned so much about myself from being there for 11 weeks. The beauty of the fjords, sea, mountains, northern lights, bright culture, and the kindness of the Norwegian people changed me forever.”
“Captured in Tromsø during a quest for the Northern Lights at the Arctic Ocean’s shore. Despite the elusive auroras due to the weather, our spirited group of 12 relished engaging conversations with guides Katrina and Stina while savoring hot chocolate, Norwegian reindeer broth, and Christmas treats. A memorable Arctic adventure, even without the lights.”
Check out the first-year J-Term in Norway last January.
“The Nottingham program is an experience like no other! It was a formative year in every aspect. I lived with and traveled around the UK with some of the best people I have come to know, all while growing as a person and in my academic life.” —Chilekwa Ling’omba ’24, management major
“My photo is of Copper Mountain rising over a fog that had been surrounding Holden Village for the entire day, obscuring any view of the mountain. I chose this photo because of the beauty of nature it represents and the example of just how close these places were to our class.” —Charles Jetton ’26, anthropology major
“The semester in Malta expanded my horizons, enriched my understanding of history, and gave me lifelong friendships. It was an experience that reconnected me with the beauty of the world and reminded me of the joy that comes from immersing oneself in a new and captivating culture.” —Christopher Cevallos ’25, political science major
“I made some absolutely amazing lifelong friends from all over the United States. In the end, I have learned and grown so much, and now I understand that if something scares you—like really scares you—you absolutely have to do it because those experiences are what turn you into your strong and unique self.” —Abigail Bates ’25, environmental studies major
“Norway has always held a special allure for me; it’s a destination I definitely plan to explore further. Last spring, I had the incredible opportunity to study at University of Agder for a semester. It proved to be a fantastic experience, allowing me to immerse myself in Norwegian culture and university life and embrace independent life for a while. Interacting with a diverse group of individuals with varied backgrounds and interests enriched my experience, and I deeply value the connections I made during this time.” —Rawan Hannoon ’25, neuroscience major
“My experience studying abroad in Bilbao, Spain, was incredible! While studying international management and Spanish, I created unforgettable memories with my amazing host family and new friends from across the States. This experience broadened my knowledge of international business in the Spanish-European context. I thank my off-campus program advisor and academic advisors for helping me make my dream to study abroad in Spain possible.” —Gabriela Castelan ’24, economics, management, and Spanish major
“The highlight of my trip in Morocco was definitely our time in a Berber camp out in the Sahara. During the nighttime, we had an opportunity to dance to and learn the history of important Berber songs. From songs on learning to let go of loved ones and resistance to French colonization, the night was unforgettable and something I will forever take with me.” —Luis Cruces ’24, political science major
“I absolutely loved my time studying at the University of Oslo International Summer School! It was such a valuable experience getting to meet students from all over the world, as well as being immersed in Norwegian culture. My favorite moment was exploring the nature of northern Norway up near Tromsø! I highly recommend this program for anyone who may be interested.” —Jens Bjorge ’24, biology and Nordic studies major
“Going to Tanzania this J-Term was a life-changing experience. I was able to experience so many things that I didn’t know would be possible. I met wonderful people, saw amazing landscapes and animals, ate great food, and made lifelong memories. I loved everything about this J-Term, but if I had to choose my favorite moment, it was probably our five-day-long stay in our Maasai guide’s hometown.” —Tancrede Lefort ’25, international studies and political science major
“Traveling to Malta led me to meet some amazing people. This experience changed me in multiple ways, and I would encourage anyone to go there.” —Sebastian Zavala ’24, accounting major
“This is Cape of Good Hope, where two different seas meet, the second most southern tip of all of Africa.” —Samantha Suski ’25, nursing major
“Going to Tanzania this J-Term was a life-changing experience. I was able to experience so many things that I didn’t know would be possible. I met wonderful people, saw amazing landscapes and animals, ate great food, and made lifelong memories. I loved everything about this J-Term, but if I had to choose my favorite moment, it was probably our five-day-long stay in our Maasai guide’s hometown.” —Tancrede Lefort ’25, international studies and political science major