REXBURG—BYU-Idaho student, Eliza Saunders, is preparing to travel overseas for the first time as part of Experience Europe, a 23-day trip designed to combine professional learning with cultural experiences.
The program brings together students from the College of Business and Communication and gives them opportunities to visit businesses, agencies, financial institutions and other organizations throughout Europe.
Students will also spend time sightseeing and learning about the history and culture of each destination.
Saunders said the trip will take students through five countries, beginning in the Czech Republic before traveling to Austria, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
“I absolutely love anything about culture or history. I grew up reading a lot of World War II stories and my dad was very big into quizzing his kids about history and so I’m excited to go see the places I’ve read about,” Saunders said.
Saunders first learned about Experience Europe after seeing a flyer while walking in the Spori Building. After talking with a friend and her mom, she decided to apply.
Saunders said some of the destinations will have a personal connection for her, including the group’s stop in London.
“My dad actually was a missionary in London back in the 90s and so I’m going to see Les Misérables in the same place he saw it 30 years ago,” Saunders said.
The trip will also include stops in places such as Vienna, Salzburg, Munich and Amsterdam. Saunders said students are expected to prepare before arriving by researching some of the businesses and cultural locations they will visit.
As a communication major with interests in journalism and strategic communication, Saunders said she is also looking forward to learning how communication is practical in different parts of Europe. She plans to speak with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the trip to learn more about their experiences living their faith overseas.
Saunders said she hopes the trip will give her more than pictures and memories. She wants to return with a greater understanding of people, culture and the experiences that shape communities.
“I think what I’ve learned from this summer preparing for it has definitely been that you can do what you set your mind to if you want it bad enough,” Saunders said.
For students considering Experience Europe in the future, Saunders encouraged them to begin preparing early, ask questions and save money.
She said the experience has already taught her that when people are willing to put in the work and preparation for something they want, opportunities that once seemed out of reach can become possible.