BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – Several West Virginia Wesleyan College students spent part of their summer traversing terrain in countries such as Chile, Vietnam, South Korea and Ireland while experiencing a different culture and taking advantage of unique learning opportunities.

Delaney Gump ’24, of Weston, West Virginia is a political science, criminal justice and sociology major, and said she had always wanted to experience study abroad. This summer, she spent June and July in Chile living with a host family and taking classes.

“My experience abroad was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had in my life,” she said. “To immerse myself into Chilean culture and the Spanish language was an enlightening experience and allowed me to gain a new perspective on my own life. I plan to travel to Chile again in the near future to explore more. I am extremely grateful to Dr. [Tamara] Bailey and the Maier scholarship for making my study abroad possible!”

Sadie Nichols ’25, of Sistersville, West Virginia, is a biochemistry and political science major where she spent several weeks with a host family, as well as traveling and exploring Vietnam.

Nichols added, “Studying abroad in Vietnam was a life-changing experience. I grew more in those 6 weeks than I’ve grown in my 20 years of life. Learning about Vietnamese Traditional Medicine, while also learning about Vietnamese culture in an immersive way staying with my host family, will be exceedingly applicable in my future career not only as a pediatric physician, but also as a well-rounded individual in the world.”

Students interested in Wesleyan Abroad opportunities have been attending seminars this semester to learn more about the unique opportunities available. Wesleyan Abroad scholarship applications are due Nov. 29.