Stories from Student-Athletes about their experience Abroad!
Join the SAA Network!
See what alumni are saying about our programs below! Accepted students can request to speak with a past participant through the following form.
Alumni Stories
Through my program I was able to explore a new country and culture with people I never would’ve met otherwise. I also made lifelong friends through my host family, the weekend trips with SAA, and the sweet kids of Roble Alto where I did service work. Overall I learned a lot about myself and it definitely brought me out of my comfort zone. My advice is to make the most out of every day because the 3-5 weeks go by way too fast!
Millie W. | San José, 2025
My top highlights of the program were just enjoying a new country, the food, and being able to make new friends. I want to understand how things work, and last year in Greece I was able to learn different styles of coaching. My biggest piece of advice is to make sure you pack both outside clothes and work clothes.
Darrin C. | Greece, 2025
South African's love their culture and express it daily. I found it to be extremely welcoming with a greater sense of community.
​
Professionally, I grew in my cross-cultural communication skills as well as non-profit program development. I also gained knowledge in non-profit fundraising. The skills I learned will help me in whatever industry or career field I end up in.
​
The program is truly an experience of a lifetime and there's no better time than while in college to open your eyes and be a student-athlete world traveler.
Ben E. | Cape Town, 2023
This program helped me grow as a person and as an athlete, and I made new lifelong friends. Through my internship I had to be innovative and adaptable when trying to come up with strategies to reach global markets. One of the top highlights was being able to play against the Spanish National Lacrosse team. Valencia has such a liveliness and the food was awesome. I advise future participants to be open to every new experience and to try everything!
Cameron R. | Valencia, 2025
"I loved getting to know the kids at the camp and going on excursions with the other SAA interns. The internship offered many great networking opportunities, which helped me connect with professionals in my desired career field.
Anna C. | Belfast, 2025
