Lacy

Hi! My name is Lacy Strickland and I am a Recreational Therapy major. I am a Junior, and I am from Clayton, North Carolina.

Where did you study abroad?

Tuscany Italy, with the ECU Tuscany Italy Intensives Program. Summer Session, May 18th-June 18th 2025

What is Your Favorite Memory from Your Time Abroad?

My favorite memory from my time in Italy would have to be visiting the city of Lucca on our free day. Almost our entire group braved the Italian train system and spent the day exploring the city on our own. As soon as we got to Lucca, we decided to rent four person bikes and ride a mile loop around the city. It was a beautiful day outside, and I had so much fun with everyone. It is one of my favorite memories from my time in Italy.

How Has Studying Abroad Helped Your Personal and Professional Life?

Studying abroad has positively helped me in my personal life by positively improving my mindset. I learned how to become more flexible and adapt to plans that may change, and to trust in going with the flow. On the professional side of my life, studying abroad has led me to build connections with my peers and with being in a different country, I also gained insightful networking experience.

What Advice Can You Offer to Students Interested in Studying Abroad?

The biggest piece of advice I can offer to students interested in Studying Abroad would be to talk to everyone! I was nervous going into my study abroad that I wasn’t going to make friends, but I can genuinely say that I have met the best group of people ever through the ECU Tuscany Program. I became so close with the people in my study abroad, and I am so grateful I got to have this experience with the most amazing people ever!

You can email Lacy at stricklandl23@students.ecu.edu to learn more about her experience!