Laura Freeland

Overall Experience

Studying abroad in Jamaica was an incredible experience that gave me a whole new perspective on education and culture. From the first day at Immaculate Conception Preparatory School, the students and staff made me feel welcome and part of their school community. I was able to build real connections with both the students and the staff, and that sense of belonging made the experience even more meaningful. Outside the classroom, I was able to experience Jamaica’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. The country’s natural beauty was absolutely breathtaking. The food, music, and overall atmosphere were full of life, warmth, and pride. It was amazing to learn about a culture so deeply rooted in community, respect, and tradition. In the classroom, what stood out most was how structured and respectful the environment was. Students were engaged, focused, and genuinely excited to learn. The teachers maintained clear expectations while still being kind and approachable. Watching how they balanced authority with encouragement helped me understand the importance of building strong relationships and a positive classroom culture.

Learning experience

The most valuable thing I learned was how to manage a classroom effectively without relying on technology. Most of the lessons were done using just a whiteboard, pencil, and paper, but the students stayed focused and involved. The teacher used clear communication, encouraged participation, and stayed calm when redirecting behavior. That showed me how important it is to build routines, set expectations early, and be consistent. These are all things I’ll take with me into my own classroom one day.

Memorable experience

One of the most memorable moments from my trip was on the very last day at the school. The students surprised me with a card that they had all signed, filled with kind messages and drawings. It was such a sweet and thoughtful gesture, and it really showed me how strong of a connection we had built in just one week. It meant so much to know that I had made an impact, even in a short amount of time. Another unforgettable part of the trip was getting to explore more of the island and experience Jamaica’s natural beauty. Visiting the Blue Mountain coffee plantation was a highlight. The views were absolutely breathtaking! Learning about how the coffee is grown and processed gave me a deeper appreciation for Jamaican culture and its connection to the land.

What did you not expect?

I was surprised by how little technology was used in the classroom and how well it worked. The students were still very engaged and focused without any. It reminded me that strong teaching doesn’t require fancy tools. What really matters is connection, structure, and creating a space where students feel supported. This made me think differently about how I’ll use technology in the future. It can be helpful, but I want to focus more on building real connections and making sure students are truly involved in their learning.

What advice would you give?

If you’re thinking about studying abroad—do it! It’s such a unique experience that helps you grow not just as a future teacher, but also as a person. Be flexible, open-minded, and willing to embrace the differences you’ll see. Ask questions, try the food, observe everything, and talk to the students. You’ll learn so much more than you expect. It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone, see education from a new lens, and come back with skills and memories that will stay with you forever.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience had a major impact on the way I view teaching and the kind of educator I want to become. It confirmed my belief that teaching is about more than just delivering lessons, it’s about creating an environment where every student feels respected, included, and empowered. Being in Jamaica gave me a chance to see how culture, community, and social identity shape the classroom experience. Even though the school had limited diversity in terms of ethnicity, I noticed how important it was to make every student feel seen and valued. The classroom atmosphere was rooted in mutual respect, and the teacher treated every student equally—using gentle but firm communication, encouraging participation, and promoting teamwork. It reminded me how important it is to intentionally create a space where students feel safe, heard, and motivated to learn. I also realized that you don’t need a classroom full of technology to keep students engaged. What matters more is the structure, consistency, and relationships you build. This experience reinforced my commitment to equity in education and made me even more passionate about incorporating cultural awareness, representation, and social-emotional growth into my teaching.

How did you learn about this experience?

I found out about this opportunity through my professors in my Block I education classes. The idea of a week-long study abroad trip that still offered hands-on teaching experience really appealed to me. I wanted to see how education looked in a different country, and I’m so glad I took the chance. It gave me the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, learn from a new environment, and see just how much students value their education in other parts of the world.

International Connections