M2M
Scotland Study Abroad 2025: A Global Perspective on Higher Education
In March 2025, students and faculty from ODU’s HIED 744/844 course traveled to Scotland for a week-long study abroad experience focused on comparative higher education.
The trip began in Glasgow with visits to the University of Glasgow, led by Dr. Gabriella Rodolico (University of Glasgow) and Dr. Mathies, where students met with faculty and staff to discuss curriculum development, research, and the impact of Scottish and UK education policy. Participants also engaged in informal discussions on comparative higher education systems, and their research interests with local students and faculty. The group also participated in a guided walking tour of Glasgow, exploring key cultural and historical landmarks including the Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis.
Group picture at the University of Glasgow
Walking tour of Glasgow
Getting around Glasgow on the Metro
Midweek, the group journeyed to Edinburgh to visit Edinburgh Napier University and the University of Edinburgh. Highlights included a speaking with representatives from the Learning Innovation Support Unit and the Academic and Digital Development teams, a lecture on the British higher education system, a seminar on research methods in comparative education, and an academic discussion on regional influences in higher education. At Edinburgh Napier, Dr. Bullington presented her research on student veterans in learning communities and Dr. Mathies presented on comparative higher education systems at the University of Edinburgh. Students also enjoyed a hike to Arthur’s Seat and informal exploration of the city’s rich cultural and historical landscape. The experience concluded with a collaborative event where students from both countries exchanged perspectives on global higher education systems.
Group meeting at Edinburgh Napier University
Group picture at the University of Glasgow
Group picture at the University of Edinburgh
Group picture from the top of Arthur’s Seat – Edinburgh
From guided tours and scholarly discussions to late-night reflections over local fare and some very competitive games of Phase 10, the trip deepened participants’ understanding of international education while fostering lasting connections across continents.
ODU students reflected on the experience with enthusiasm, sharing thoughts on the personal and professional impact of the trip:
“As a first-generation student who had never traveled outside the US before, I was extremely nervous about this trip. However, the experience turned out to be amazing and I’m so glad I went. From meeting the students/faculty at various universities, seeing the architecture of Scotland, hiking Arthur’s Seat, and all the fabulous food options, it was a week of good connection, meaningful conversations, and growth for me both personally and professionally.
For anyone who is thinking about a study abroad program, I can’t recommend it enough! I feel like everyone should participate in a class like this at least once in their academic career. Learning about various programs and the study experience in Scotland was fascinating and as an adjunct professor, it gave me ideas on how to better engage with my own students.
Taking this class early in my Ph.D. program helped me create connections with other students in the CCL program and similar programs like higher education. My roommate and I had lots of talks about our experience so far in the program and even started brainstorming dissertation ideas! The connections I made on this trip with both faculty and students are ones I will continue to lean on throughout the rest of my time at ODU.” Wendy Bundy, Community College Leadership Ph.D. Student
“Studying abroad in Scotland for a week was such an incredible experience. Visiting universities in both Glasgow and Edinburgh gave me a unique glimpse into Scottish higher education, while immersing myself in the culture, history, and beautiful landscapes of each city. Beyond the academic enrichment, it was also a meaningful bonding experience with my colleagues and professors, one that deepened our connections and made the trip even more impactful.” Carlin Conaway, Higher Education Ph.D. Student
“This study abroad experience in Scotland reignited my interest in comparative education and sparked a desire to explore the academic research pathway. Engaging daily with the scholars abroad and ODU faculty both in formal and informal settings, gave me insights into their perspectives on global trends shaping the field, innovations in learning and teaching, as well as their research focus and institutional challenges. It reinforced the idea that a global collaborative environment, enabling these exchanges, is highly beneficial for the improvement of tertiary education in many levels. The trip itself was a great learning opportunity in terms of the design and operation of such programs, which is a valuable skill for my desired career field. I am immensely grateful to Dr. Mathies for his dedication in organizing and leading this study abroad trip and to Dr. Bullington and Dr. Nunnery for their mentorship and thoughtful insights.” Andrea Fore, Higher Education Master’s Student
“University of Glasgow houses the oldest public museum in all of Scotland, The Hunterian. Just recently, the museum hosted an exhibition of William Thomson, Lord Kelvin. During my visit as part of a study abroad 2025 cohort, I encountered a quote from Lord Kelvin that stuck with me: ‘To live among friends is the primary essential of happiness.’ This sentiment perfectly captured the essence of my experience. While the trip was an opportunity to explore higher education across the Atlantic, 3,258 miles from home, it became so much more, it was a journey of unexpected camaraderie. Friendships formed, and for that, my gratitude knows no bounds. There’s an undeniable magic in discovering connections when you least expect them, a reminder that the greatest happiness in life often comes in the form of friendships forged along the way.” Renee Hosang-Alleyne, Community College Leadership Ph.D. Student
“The study abroad experience offered an incredible opportunity to explore and learn from institutions of higher education overseas. Scotland’s rich and vibrant history served as an inspiring backdrop, enriching my academic journey and advancing my expertise in faculty development.” Kristal Kinloch-Taylor, Higher Education Ph.D. Student