Transformed Through Study-Travel: Dr. Andrea Elliott ‘03 & Graci Barga ‘26
International study abroad opportunities are a vital component of the Converse experience. Our students return from study-travel experiences with new insights and compassion for other cultures, expanded communication skills, and newfound independence.
In January 2026, Converse students joined Converse professors for 12 days in Spain, a historical melting pot of style and design. Three classes joined forces for this adventure — Art Appreciation: Art and Architecture Of Spain, Travel Sketching And Watercolor, and Experiencing Spanish Culture(s). Students explored the highlights of Spanish culture, including architectural sites, local cuisine, museums, and local artists, from Barcelona to Madrid. Spain offers a rich academic tapestry that weaves together Catalan and Spanish cultures along with their artists, including Picasso, Dalí, El Greco, and, most notably, the work of Catalan architect Antonio Gaudí.
Dr. Andrea Elliott, Assistant Professor of Art Education at Converse, was one of the lead faculty members on the trip. But it wasn’t long ago that she herself was a Converse undergraduate student on a similar study travel experience. “I went on a travel study to France as an undergraduate at Converse, and it changed my life. Now, I have come full circle, and I am leading the same kinds of trips that I took when I was a student,” Dr. Elliott said.
“I love witnessing the growth in students as they experience their first flight, first museum, or even their first time away from home.”
Dr. Andrea Elliott
Dr. Elliott has seen firsthand how Converse’s travel study program changes students’ perceptions of the world, and often, their lives. “I love witnessing the growth in students as they experience their first flight, first museum, or even their first time away from home,” Dr. Elliott shared. “Experiencing these ‘firsts” with them and seeing the growth as they become independent, curious travelers is one of my main goals. Travel is the key that unlocks the doors to future aspirations many never think possible until they embark on this journey of self-discovery. Travel changes us…for the better.”
Creative and Professional Writing major Graci Barga ‘26 (Nisbet Honors) was a student in Dr. Elliott’s Art and Architecture of Spain class, and this trip was their second time taking a Converse study-travel trip. Read about Graci’s experience exploring the natural landscapes, learning first-hand about the country’s vibrant history, discovering new cuisine and visiting Salvador Dali’s unique museum.
Flamenco, Basilicas, and Palaces: Graci’s Study Abroad Experience
Written by Graci Barga ‘26
During the 2026 Jan Term, I had the opportunity to travel across the sea to visit Spain with Dr. Elliott’s Art and Architecture of Spain class. This was my second time traveling with Dr. Elliott to visit a new country, and only my second time I have ever left the country.
Given my minimal travel experience, I was incredibly anxious about preparing for the trip. However, Dr. Elliott and the other professors were absolutely wonderful in helping students prepare. They made sure all who were embarking on this trip, no matter the experience they had, were well prepared. It is thanks to their care and guidance that I was able to feel well prepared before stepping onto our shuttle to go to the airport.
After an overnight flight, we landed in Barcelona and got a quick start to our journey. The city tour we got of Barcelona was a great introduction to the culture we were immersing ourselves in. Barcelona was rich with gorgeous architecture that amazed us at every turn. Despite all the pictures I took over the course of this trip, which was well over seven hundred, I still do not think I could fully encapsulate the beauty of Spain.
Many of the highlights of Barcelona centered around the artist Antoni Gaudí. Each piece of architecture of his found a new way to take my breath away. I was grateful for the local guides that helped expand upon the beauty of these pieces with fact and historical significance.
“I’m grateful that Converse provides students with the chance to go study abroad and gives students the opportunity to experience a new culture not just through textbooks, but through real-world experiences as well.”
Graci Barga ’26
While in Barcelona, we also took a visit up to Montserrat. The train ride through the clouds to this beautiful mountain range and monastery was the perfect way to wrap up our time in Barcelona. Here we were able to explore the little town and then explore the basilica. Within the walls of the basilica, we heard the singing of the boy’s choir and then took a tour to see the Black Madonna, which looks out over the pews from high above.
On our final day in Barcelona, we departed to visit the Salvador Dali museum in Figueres. The Dali museum was elaborate and strange in ways that made each room feel exciting. I never knew what I was going to be seeing in the next room, and which piece would become my favorite. By the time we finished our walk through, I had lost count of how many favorites I had. Figueres had a lot to offer all of us outside of the Dali museum as well. It had a beautiful park area, delicious places to grab a bite to eat, and fun places to shop for souvenirs.
The next morning we got up and hopped on the fast train to Madrid. This was my first time on a train, and I was thrilled. I loved watching the countryside zoom by the window until smoothly sliding to stop in the Madrid train station.
“This was my first time on a train, and I was thrilled.”
Graci Barga ’26
The capital of Spain was full of bustling city life. All around us were pieces of history and cultural significance. I was grateful for the city tour we took that helped us get accustomed to the new area we found ourselves in. Madrid had so much to offer all of us, no matter what major you were, there was something for everyone.
During our time in Spain we visited many landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, and the many plazas with various shops and restaurants. I found so much inspiration for my writing while we took our tours. I loved the Royal Palace especially. Since the royal family of Spain only stays there a few weeks out of the year and for important events, most of the palace functions as a museum. There was so much history embedded in the very walls of the palace. Each room had a personality unlike any other, and I enjoyed getting to walk the halls where so many historical figures had before. It was one of the highlights of my entire trip.
The food in Madrid is unmatched. During one evening we shared a meal as an entire group, and we were treated to a salsa performance afterwards. This was the best dinner and a show I have ever been to. All of us were captivated by the beautiful dancers and the way their dresses flowed across the stage. I am so glad we all got to experience that as a group.
Towards the end of our trip, we also took a trip to Toledo, the former capital of Spain. Given its former capital status, it was rich in history too, as well as beautiful landscapes. We took a tour through the city and explored the Jewish Quarter and inside the Toledo Cathedral. The churches and religious sites in Spain felt like they were right out of a magazine. I still look back at my photos and am so grateful for this experience Converse gave me.
My trip to Spain was something I will cherish for the rest of my life. I’m grateful that Converse provides students with the chance to go study abroad and gives students the opportunity to experience a new culture not just through textbooks, but through real-world experiences as well.