International Adventures

The monarch butterfly has been recognized as the State Insect of Illinois since 1975. The species is well known for its annual long-distance migrations from the American Midwest to Central Mexico and back again. (Photo Credit: Erin Stein, Class of 2010)

Each year, ACES James Scholars from the freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior classes may choose to participate in an international experience. This may consist of a two-week study tour, a semester or two at an institution in another country, or an internship with an international corporation. This page showcases the experiences and adventures of ACES James Scholars and Honors Program alumni who have traveled beyond the United States to embrace the global civilization of our collective future.

The following links lead to stories and photos submitted by intrepid ACES adventurers for inclusion on this page. To submit items for consideration, please contact the Honors Secretary, Rob Chappell.

Contemporary Travelogues from ACES Adventurers

• Andrea in Sweden (PDF) -- Andrea Jakubas (Class of 2010) spent the fall semester of 2008 studying at the University of Uppsala in Sweden. Follow along on Andrea's journey of discovery as she pursues her studies, makes new friends, and travels throughout Scandinavia and Central Europe.
• The (Mis)adventures of Miss Lynsee Melchi -- Lynsee graduated from the College of ACES with James Scholar Distinction in May 2003. After working on campus for a few more years in the South Research Park, she attended the University of Pretoria in South Africa, and now she has returned home to Chicagoland. Read all about her globe-trotting adventures in this edutaining weblog.
• Brittany's Australia -- Brittany Wojcicki (Class of 2010) studied at the University of Queensland in Australia during the spring and summer of 2009. Journey along with Brittany as she experiences academic life in the Southern Hemisphere, both inside and outside the classroom.

Transnational Organizations

• ACES Global Ambassadors -- "Bringing Worlds Together"
• ACES Global Connect
• Cosmopolitan Club -- "Above All Nations Is Humanity"
• Europa: Gateway to the European Union
• United Nations

Travel Information and Preparation

• CDC: Travelers' Health
• CIA World Factbook
• U.S. State Department: Bureau of Consular Affairs

Please visit this page often, as new stories and photos will be added as they become available. For detailed information about international opportunities, please contact: