Lila Ferrucci

The experience that I gained using the academic enhancement award is currently studying abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland. During this experience, I am spending time continuing my studies at the University of Edinburgh for the Spring 2026 semester. So far, I have enjoyed meeting many new friends and people from different places. I have spent some time traveling to new countries as well including Spain, the Netherlands, and Hungary. Although this experience is not over yet, I am glad that I was able to be able to study abroad during my time at Syracuse.

Something that surprised me most about this experience was being the only Syracuse student in my program at Edinburgh. This was scary at first because I was unsure how to proceed without knowing anyone going to study abroad here. However, meeting new people was one of the best experiences that I have had so far during study abroad.

For further development related to this experience, my time in Edinburgh will continue until May 23rd. I want to continue doing more travel and exploring Scotland as well. I will be taking a trip to the Highlands in the upcoming weeks, which will be an exciting experience.

Receiving an award from Honors to support me in this experience has helped to subsidize some of the costs involved with studying abroad. As this is an expensive experience, Honors has helped me to pay for my flights as well as some living expenses.

This experience has contributed to my overall academic and professional goals by providing me with a new cultural perspective. Studying abroad is such an amazing experience to become more independent and learn more about yourself.