Education students teach in Spain

Three University of North Georgia (UNG) College of Education (COE) students are completing their student internship in Spain this spring. The students' time abroad is an opportunity to immerse themselves in Spanish culture while completing their senior teaching internship at the American School of Valencia, a private school with grades from kindergarten through 12th.  

The program is available to those pursuing bachelor's degrees in elementary and special education, middle grades education, and secondary education with most classes taught in English and lasting from January to March. Dr. Lauren Johnson, assistant dean and coordinator of COE global programs, serves as the program’s director.

"I'm a big proponent of study abroad as I studied abroad twice as an undergrad," Johnson said. "I love that UNG has these opportunities for students where they can study abroad or study away and experience an environment outside of our local context."

Karen Anaya, teaching first grade, Jenny Gault, teaching second grade, and Olivia Harden, teaching kindergarten, are living with other college students in an apartment-style hotel during their 11-week international experience.

As a result of the program design, students will finish their degree requirements early in comparison to their counterparts in the U.S.

"I have always loved to travel and I'm grateful for the opportunity to complete my program-required student teaching in Valencia, Spain. Through this opportunity I am developing my teaching abilities while increasing my cultural awareness," Gault, who is pursuing a degree in elementary and special education, said.

Anaya, a Gainesville, Georgia, native, has also found her study abroad journey to be transformative.

"Being able to teach here has been such a great opportunity and learning experience. These experiences will definitely help strengthen my teaching abilities for my future. Being from Gainesville, I have been exposed to a culture that is so different but amazing."

The College of Education also has a study abroad programs in New Zealand, which serves as an extended spring break. The students in the program work with special-needs students and have access to a site coordinator. The third program is the newly established Danish program, which is for elementary and special education majors only and is a Maymester program.

The study abroad programs in the College of Education are specifically designed for education majors with no additional tuition and support from the Center for Global Engagement's advisers. Students interested in participating can apply in the fall.