Student Adventures Abroad: Rosemarie Baker
For Rose Baker, a business student in the dual bachelor’s degree program between the University of North Florida (UNF) and the University of València (UV), studying abroad wasn’t just a semester-long detour; she planned to fully immerse herself in Spanish culture. As part of the Transatlantic Business School Alliance (TABSA) consortium, Rose spent two years in Spain after completing her studies in Jacksonville, Florida. Now as she prepares for her final semester and a four-month Spanish-immersive internship, she reflects on how this journey has shaped not just her academic path but also her outlook on life and the world.
Great Decisions Highlight: Ella York
In a world of emerging leaders, few shine as brightly as Ella York, a senior at Ponte Vedra High School. Whether leading Student Government, presiding over the Debate Club, or championing Model United Nations, Ella has left a lasting mark. Yet it is her participation in the Great Decisions program that has most profoundly shaped her worldview, deepening her understanding of international affairs and solidifying her aspirations for a future in global leadership. The Great Decisions program, a unique global educational initiative provided by the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville, aims to spark curiosity among high school students by
Highlights from the 20th Annual Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest
"Shooting for the Stars" from Ponte Vedra High School On February 13, 45 teams representing 18 high schools across Northeast Florida came together at the University of North Florida to compete in the 20th Annual Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest. As the Council’s flagship education event, the competition challenges participants’ knowledge of international affairs, geography, history, and culture. With over 40 local competitions held nationwide, the winners of these events earn a coveted invitation to the National Academic WorldQuest competition in Washington, D.C. each spring. As the 20th edition of the event, this year’s competition blended
Student Adventures Abroad: Morganne Percevault
The decision to study abroad often stems from a desire for growth, understanding, and adventure. For Morganne Percevault, one of the three recipients of the prestigious Ambassador Marilyn McAfee Study Abroad Scholarship, it was all of this and more. With a lifelong curiosity about cultural differences and a passion for international business, Morganne chose France as her destination – a choice deeply rooted in her heritage, personal interests, and professional aspirations. “I’ve always been fascinated by living abroad,” Morganne shared. “I’m driven by a desire to understand people who are different from me.” Living in France was not her
Student Adventures Abroad: Kayla Drake
When Kayla Drake applied for the Ambassador Marilyn McAfee Study Abroad Scholarship through the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville, she did so on a leap of faith. As a rising junior at the University of North Florida, Kayla had never ventured far from home, let alone out of the country. Kayla Drake in Greece “I want to travel for many reasons, one being that I’ve never left the country before,” Kayla wrote in her application. “Going to college just 30 minutes from home has already broadened my horizons immensely. I can’t begin to imagine how much more
Creekside High School Triumphs at the 2024 Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest
In February, the team "Iran to First Place" from Creekside High School lived up to their name, clinching victory at the 19th annual Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest competition. This achievement earned them a spot at The Carlos and Malu Alvarez National Academic WorldQuest Competition, where they competed against top students from councils nationwide in the heart of Washington D.C., with all-expenses-paid trip by the Council. Meet the Winning Team "Iran to First Place" is consists of four outstanding students from Creekside High School: Juniors Sohum Sheth and Addison Hopwood, and Seniors Sam Kass and Benjamin York. With