Closing Note

To echo the students' oft-heard comments, Seminar Abroad 2012:  London Olympics was a nonstop whirlwind consisting of one incredible experience after another!  It seemed like each day presented us with new and exciting adventures that surpassed those of the day before.  The students got very little sleep as we easily crammed two (or even three) weeks worth of activities into ten days, but I think to a person they felt that they got a lot back in return for their sacrifice. 

For me, the highlight was seeing the students step up to seize every opportunity that came their way.  From not ever being late for a scheduled function and presenting their research topics at 7 a.m. seminar to exploring the UK's historic and cultural institutions while engaging foreigners and navigating the subway on their own, the students demonstrated dedication, initiative, and resourcefulness.  By going all out with the face and body paint, and adorning themselves in red, white, and blue, they singlehandedly created a frenzied atmosphere that attracted unprecedented international media attention for Western New England University!  The students displayed their patriotism and national pride in a foreign country as they cheered Team USA to victory . . . on two separate occasions!  Parents (and grandparents) can be proud that these students comported themselves as model goodwill ambassadors for their home communities, WNE, and the United States of America!  Mission accomplished.