Callie is a new addition to the Syracuse University Abroad staff. She oversees the admissions process for both the SU Madrid and Santiago (Chile) centers.
What is your favorite travel memory?
My favorite traveling experience was on my most recent trip to Jamaica. My husband and I were walking down 7-mile beach and met a gentleman who referred to himself as “Fireman.” In reviews about Jamaica we had read about Fireman, but never thought we would meet him.
Fireman showed us all the favorite local hangouts, which had incredible views and some amazing people, and ended the day by catching us fresh lobster from the ocean and cooking it on an open fire for us. It was by far the best seafood I have ever had and a top memory for sure!
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
One story that always sticks out to me from a returning student was about her host family in Spain. Her host parents were older and retired, but loved to cook.
She had family come visit her while she was studying abroad so she and her host parents made a five-course gourmet meal for them. Although it was something as simple as making meals with her host parents, the memories she created by having her host family and biological family coming together is always one of my favorite parts of returning students' stories.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I have always wanted to visit Thailand. There is something about the Thai culture that I have always found fascinating, but the values that the Thai people hold to are something everyone can learn from.
Additionally, some of the best foods and beaches can be found in Thailand and you can’t go wrong with that combination!
