Parental Testimonials

Mrs. Sharon Rowlette

For fall semester, 2004 my son Seth studied on UTK’s Semester in Wales program at the University of Wales, Swansea in the United Kingdom. The thought of his being SO FAR from home for nearly four months was a bit overwhelming for me. I was concerned about his being accepted in the UK, what with living with six other guys who were all native to that country. Fortunately, on the Semester in Wales program there was a group of fifteen students, led by a UT faculty member.

Every phone call and email was filled with exciting news about where he had been, what he had seen and all of the neat people he was meeting.

— Sharon Rowlette

I feel that Seth was adequately prepared for this experience by the wonderful staff in the Programs Abroad Office at UT. They were always helpful in answering questions and providing helpful information both before and during his time abroad. I applaud their efforts in providing such a valuable tool for extending the student's educational experience through international studies.

Sharon Rowlette and son Seth posing on the cliffs of Gower in Wales.

I had concerns about Seth’s safety while traveling within the UK after he arrived. Since he was traveling alone, this seemed like a terribly big undertaking for him to get off the plane, catch a train, then a bus and then to find the campus at Swansea. My fears were relieved after that first phone call when he had arrived at the home of his host person where he stayed the first two weeks of his orientation. He sounded excited and confident. Every phone call and email was filled with exciting news about where he had been, what he had seen and all of the neat people he was meeting.

In London, visting the Victoria and Albert Museum

When Seth's host mother heard of my daughter's and my plans to visit Seth in November, she immediately invited us to say with her in her home as her guests! What an amazing experience to be in her home, learn some of the history of that county from her perspective, and enjoy her warm hospitality. She loves Americans and Elvis! We still maintain our friendship with Leslie and communicate with her often.

Seth had the opportunity to travel around Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland and to Amsterdam during his time in the UK. The many friends that he made and the opportunity to experience the different cultures was priceless to him as a student. And, knowing that I have raised a son who is confident in traveling and studying internationally is priceless to me as his parent.

I would highly recommend this experience to any student and parent considering study abroad. It has broadened our horizons as a family!