Joshua Spodek
My study abroad program in London was transformative, as it turned the city into a dynamic classroom beyond traditional learning settings. Volunteering weekly at Refettorio Felix offered a unique perspective of London and a meaningful break from academics. My travels across eight countries and various European cities fueled my curiosity and connected me with diverse individuals, enriching my global perspective. My trip to Lockerbie, Scotland, turned what had only been a historical event into a tangible experience, deepening my understanding of history. I am grateful to Syracuse Abroad for this opportunity, which has equipped me with invaluable skills and insights for my academic and personal growth.
I wanted to briefly mention an impactful volunteer opportunity that I completed while abroad, especially because this could be another way for Honors students to fulfill their civic engagement requirements. While in London, I served as a weekly volunteer at Refettorio Felix, a community center that provides a 3-course lunch service Monday through Friday. At approximately noon each day, anyone who wants to have a meal will walk into their facility at St. Cuthbert’s Church in Earl’s Court, sit at one of three long tables, and be served a starter, main dish, and dessert (prepared by a team of professional chefs) free of charge. As a volunteer at Refettorio, my responsibility was to give the patrons their food as their server. From asking if they wanted coffee or tea when they arrived, to engaging in conversations about their lives, my time at Refettorio allowed me to learn about the importance of human connection, especially over a well-cooked meal. In this way, Refettorio Felix provided a space to meet people from all walks of London life. Most importantly, however, volunteering gave me an escape from my coursework and traditional abroad activities and allowed me to see another side of London that I would not have experienced otherwise. I could not recommend volunteering abroad for Honors students enough!
Something that surprised me about my study abroad experience was how my real-world experiences differed from my prior expectations about the program. Going into the Spring 2024 semester, I knew that my semester in London would present a new challenge for me academically, socially, and professionally. Nevertheless, post-abroad, I have noticed certain improvements in my approach to academic matters and a newfound confidence in both my personal and formal interactions. My experience abroad was truly transformative: a semester full of adventures and events that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Although I will not be publishing/performing any specific work about my experience abroad, I am serving as a Global Ambassador for the London program on the Study Abroad team. In this role, I will speak with prospective students about the educational and experiential benefits of studying in a different country. In addition, the role allows me to share how my experiences have shaped my understanding of what learning can be, both in the context of my academic disciplines and life in general. I look forward to encouraging Syracuse University students to participate in the London program; it’s an active way to show my appreciation for everything the program provided for my personal and professional development.
