BRADENTON, FL (Sept. 23, 2025)—Twenty-five students from State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota traveled to Portugal and Spain across the Iberian Peninsula to learn about the region’s history, people, sites and culture during SCF’s Summer 2025 study abroad program. Michael Rogers, a professor of American government and history at SCF, and local experts led the group on tours by foot, boat, and train.

Over their 11-day journey, the students visited Lisbon, the Algarve Coast, Seville, Madrid and Barcelona. The group explored historic districts, notable landmarks, and ancient and contemporary life, including the National Palace of Sintra, Jerónimos Monastery, Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower, Prado Museum, Sagrada Familia Basilica, St. George’s Castle and other sites. They experienced the local cuisine, works of art, a flamenco dance show, a river cruise, musical entertainment and other activities.

Seeing the historical European countries in person made a meaningful impact on the students. Many shared that it was a life-changing learning experience.

“This experience has touched me in ways I never imagined,” said Elizabeth Sawyer, an SCF student who attended the trip. “It opened my heart and changed the way I see the world.”

In addition to their education abroad, the students completed SCF’s Study Abroad in Europe Summer A class for three credit hours. Each year, a maximum of 30 students can enroll in the program on a first-come, first-served basis. Enrolled students may also take the optional Summer A course.

Rogers has led the study abroad program since 2016. He is planning a Summer 2026 trip to Paris, Switzerland and the Riviera.

For questions about the program, call Michael Rogers at 941-408-1485 or email RogersM@SCF.edu.

Photo caption: SCF students study abroad in Portugal and Spain.