PHILIPPI, W.Va.—December 12, 2019—AB students enjoyed a semester traveling throughout Europe this fall as part of the Alderson Broaddus University Battlers Abroad: International Learning and Service program. Since its inception more than 30 years ago, large groups of Alderson Broaddus students have been traveling abroad as part of a three-month full-emersion experience that emphasizes travel as a means of high-level, intensive, and ultimately rewarding learning. Battlers Abroad allow students to travel throughout Europe while earning credits toward graduation.
“The academic value of studying abroad is very significant,” said Bill Klaus, AB’s director of international learning and service. “Alderson Broaddus University, as a whole, is to committed to making a program like this successful.”
Nine students, accompanied by Professor Klaus, director of international learning and service, and Program Assistant Lora Owston ’19, participated in courses including European Geography, European History since 1815, and Conversational German. Classes are hosted at Haus Wartenberg, a bed and breakfast near the historic city center, in Salzburg, Austria. The courses are designed to provide a dynamic and hands-on curriculum that meets the students’ liberal studies requirements.
“Studying abroad helped me develop skills and gain experience. Living in a culturally rich environment was an opportunity to exercise adaptability, creativity, and teamwork,” said Clara Runho Lucarelli, a junior double majoring in marketing and business administration.
“Our students were able to travel off the beaten path and immerse themselves in aspects of the European life that few tourists ever see. They spent time hiking, visiting local cafes, and meeting Europeans from diverse locations and backgrounds,” said Klaus. “A great deal of the semester is spent participating in self-directed travel, and they each took to the experience.”
During their time in Europe, students were able to see many of the iconic sights, including Michelangelo’s David and the Sistine Chapel, the castle and Charles Bridge in Prague, the Van Gogh Museum of Amsterdam, and the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum in Paris. Recent trips included places as far north as Ireland, as far east as Romania, as far south as Malta, and as far west as Portugal.
Students returned to campus ahead of the holiday season and will have the opportunity to share their recollections with classmates, faculty, and staff during a presentation in the spring.
About Alderson Broaddus University
Alderson Broaddus (AB) University is a private, four-year institution of higher education located on a historic hilltop in Barbour County in Philippi, West Virginia. Since its founding in 1871, AB has been a leader and innovator in higher education, with accolades in the health and natural sciences.
The mission of AB is to provide students with the highest quality education, striving to prepare students to succeed in their chosen disciplines and to fulfill their roles in a diverse society as well-rounded and responsible citizens.
