Sophia Notter
class of ‘19
“Looking back I realize how meaningful it was to talk to local peacekeepers in Croatia and Bosnia and hear first-hand about their experiences and their work after the conflict. Being on the ground where these conflicts happened adds so much more to your understanding of how conflict can affect individuals and change people’s lives."
Andrew Wilson
class of ‘19
“I’ve become interested more broadly in peacemaking and understanding political violence since the end of the program. The content of the course and the location was crucial to deciding what I would do with the remaining two years of college...Much of my focus in college has been related to political violence, modern foreign policy, and dialogue-driven peacebuilding...I think other students should attend this program if they want to move a bit out of their comfort zone and engage in a course that is extremely personal. It was incredibly enjoyable, while also tackling difficult subjects.”
Courtney Stoltzfus
Class of ‘20
"The Balkans Program not only was transformative but is and will continue to be transformative. The Program is designed in such a manner that compels deep contemplation on some of the rawest and most avoided issues. You learn the importance of such contemplation and exercise it throughout the Program."
Liam Carroll
Class of ‘20
"Being immersed in the country, having new experiences, and being able to talk with people who didn’t grow up in America helped me figure out who I am and who I want to strive to become."
Caileigh Treash
Class of ‘21
“Studying in the Balkans has been the most rewarding experience of my academic career - it challenged me to apply what I was learning in class as I considered conflicts in my own life and in the world around me. Considering the issues of violence and peace at a deeper level caused me to reflect more thoughtfully and holistically on today’s issues as well as my own identity and how I relate to the people around me. Studying abroad in Croatia has been a life-changing experience, with a beautiful country, wonderful people, and unforgettable experiences.”
Christian Kim
Class of ‘21
“Studying in the Balkans has allowed me to broaden my perspective on the pervasiveness of violence in our society...it has given me the opportunity to experience the possibility of peaceful coexistence among religions. To know that this is possible brought me great hope…Take advantage of your time in the Balkans and do everything that you get a chance to. Don’t be afraid to go on adventures and meet new people.”
sonia Toloczko
Class of ‘21
"Poking about blindly in a foreign city will never seem so appealing as a one-on-one chat with locals or a historic tour led by a local expert. There are so many different cultures packed into a small area, so it was very helpful to get an honest and thorough glimpse of them while I was in the Balkans. Going to the Balkans has made it impossible for me to ever forget that my way of life, my expectations, or my ideals should remain stagnant."
Vivienne Le
Class of ‘21
“Studying in the Balkans has been one of the most gratifying experiences in my life so far. It challenged me to think deeply, stay open-minded, and be adventurous every day. To go abroad is to allow yourself to meet new people, get out of your comfort zone, see the beauty in the world, and be free to be yourself. I’m forever grateful for the people I met, places I saw, and experiences I had.”