SiS Newsletter - January 2012 - I. L.: Jennifer Armentrout

Jennifer Armentrout
Director of International Studies and Students

When was the last time you have been to Spain?
The last time I was in Spain was for the Embassy of Spain trip in June 2011.

What do you enjoy most about Spain?
I enjoy so many things about Spain -- the people, the food, the architecture, the history, the diversity in locations within Spain, the safety, the modern conveniences of a first-world country, and the festivals.

What do you think are the advantages of Spain as a destination for American students?
Spain is unique in the Spanish-speaking world and I think our students should get to know both sides - Europe and Latin America. The advantage Spain has is its location and ease for students to visit other places within Europe. It's also usually much safer than many Latin American countries, even though it's further away for us in North Carolina. Spain also has images of bull-fighting, flamenco, and a vibrant nightlife, which are quite "sexy" to American students.

Could you describe the Study Abroad programs your university has with Spain?
We do our own short-term faculty led programs to different countries and we are going to Spain and Morocco in 2012. Our students have also gone on CIEE programs to Spain.

How satisfied are, in general, American students going/studying in Spain?
It would be nice if our students didn't have to go to Washington DC for an in-person interview for the visa. Other than that, I think our students are quite satisfied with their experiences there. I know I was!