Eastern Connecticut State University Student Jennifer Upton-Pepin Completes Recent Study Abroad

2014 Sep 16

When Jennifer Upton-Pepin '15 of Jewett City, CT, wanted to spend her summer studying abroad in Spain, her plans almost had to be put on hold. "Originally I was hoping to travel to Spain with Eastern. However, when Eastern's trip was not able to go I started to look for alternate options to take the one course I need to graduate on time," said Upton-Pepin. Fortunately, she was able to take classes, including Latin American Literature and Latin American Cinema, while studying at the University of Salamanca. Upton-Pepin worked with the Eastern's Study Abroad Office to make her experience possible, and traveled under International Studies Abroad (ISA). Upton-Pepin's major is Early Childhood Education.

Her favorite aspect was getting to see Spain's long and dynamic history. Upton-Pepin traveled around the country including visits to Madrid and Toledo. Upton-Pepin believes that, "Study abroad experiences are very valuable. They test your limits to show how strong you are as an individual and your ability to adapt to new experiences and environments."

Upton-Pepin has also been involved with People Helping People since her freshman year. She has also headed the Global Issues Committee since her sophomore year and participates in Eastern's competitive cheerleading squad as president and captain.

She is currently applying for Teach for America and hopes to teach in a bilingual classroom in an underprivileged school system.