Study Abroad Reflection

Global Learning in Motion shared from Study Abroad Association newsletter.

As summer continues, we’re celebrating impactful global education experiences that took place throughout May and June. From cultural immersion to academic exploration, our faculty-led programs are shaping future-ready students and empowering educators across the globe.

Post-Program Reflection with Brookdale’s Madison Margaret in Amsterdam

This summer, Madison Margaret, a student from Brookdale Community College majoring in Humanities and Arts, studied abroad in Amsterdam, on a program focused on Abnormal Psychology & Human Sexuality.

One of her most memorable moments was visiting the Van Gogh Museum, not just as a cultural experience, but as an extension of her academic learning. Through the lens of mental health and art therapy, she explored Van Gogh’s life and work with a deeper understanding of trauma, creativity, and healing.

Madison Margaret was also amazed by the overall atmosphere in Amsterdam: the kindness of locals, the cleanliness of public spaces, and the quality of the food that made the environment feel welcoming and inspiring.

“Be prepared to have the best time ever,” she’d tell her pre-departure self.
“You’ll fall in love with the beautiful, unique, quirky things Amsterdam has to offer.”

Her time abroad has already made a professional impact. During her experience, she connected with the owner of a local tattoo studio, a former NYC artist, who expressed interest in hosting her as a guest artist in the future. She also gained confidence navigating public transportation, made new friendships, and laid the groundwork for future opportunities in the Netherlands.

We’re so proud to see how this experience has inspired and empowered Madison and we can’t wait to see where her global journey leads next.

See Madison Margaret’s experience through her own lens: