Stories from Abroad

student posing in front of the Alhambra which is a historic palace and fortress complex built by the Muslim rulers during the 13th and 14th centuries

First Month in Madrid and Our Program Trip to Southern Spain

March 17, 2026

Follow Abby as she explores Spain through GW Madrid’s unforgettable cultural excursions!

student posing with friends during her ski trip

What I Learned From My Time Abroad

March 16, 2026

Feeling like an imposter abroad? You’re not alone, here’s what Emily has to say about their GBP journey.

view of host country

More Than a View: How Cape Town Changed My Understanding of Community and Change

March 13, 2026

Lily reflects while climbing Elsie’s Peak

group picture of students on a class trip

Halfway There: A Mid-Semester Update from Madrid

March 9, 2026

Need convincing to study abroad? Here's why Álvaro studied abroad with GW Madrid!

group picture of Gilman Scholars touring Brussels, Belgium

Beyond the Classroom: A Trip to the EU

March 4, 2026

Renee’s first time abroad took her to the heart of Europe’s political core—read on to learn more.

picture of Ireland's coast

Less Busywork, More Responsibility: Academics at UCD vs. GW

February 27, 2026

Wondering what academics are like abroad? Hear how Vivian’s experience at UCD compares to GW.

view of the western coast of Cape Town

The Ferry Ride to Memory

February 23, 2026

Learning about history through its survivors, Lily reflects on her visit to Robben Island.

beach side view in Australia

A Strong Start: Reflections and Highlights From My First Six Weeks in Australia

February 22, 2026

Shahriar shares how adapting to a new academic system gave him the flexibility to explore his host country—read on to see where his adventures have taken him!

view of the sunlight passing through the trees during a student's hike

Hiking Ireland Without a Car

February 19, 2026

Want to escape city life for a walk in nature? Katherine shares how to explore and hike around Dublin with no car required!

"Parliament of Ghosts" on display at the Ibraaz arts space in London

Spring in London: Returning with a New Perspective

February 16, 2026

London, Take Two! Hear from Belsem's experience her second time around at KCL

student stopping by her favorite shops in Italy before she departs

Suitcases, Souvenirs, and Saying Arrivederci

February 8, 2026

There’s culture shock… and then there’s reverse culture shock! Hear from Isabelle as she readjusts to life at GW and reflects on her time abroad.

Amsterdam sunset by the canal

If Everyone Speaks English, Why Am I Learning Dutch?

February 7, 2026

Leigh explains what motivated them to learn Dutch.