Twelve Missouri State University students, accompanied by associate professors Dr. Jonathan Newman and Dr. Leslie Seawright of the Department of English, traveled to England June 4-15, 2024, as part of an Education Abroad program.

The group visited places in London, Oxford, Bath, Chawton (home of Jane Austen) and Stratford-upon-Avon (hometown of William Shakespeare), according to Newman.

Newman said the group also participated in multiple literary and historical events and attended theatrical performances of works by Shakespeare and mystery writer Agatha Christie.

The 12 students were Hope Barker, Melissa Bowles, KaMara Brown, Tyler Cavin, Isabella Eslick, Sarah Howser, Chloe Inman, Edsel McCaslin-McMillin, Emma Moore, Allison Raymond, Ben Vertraete and Sierra Welch.

This was Newman’s first time leading an Education Abroad program. Seawright has previously led other study abroad activities.

Program focused on experiences and encounters

According to Newman, he and Seawright developed the program around the concepts of experiential learning and intercultural encounters.

The program would ideally allow students to explore English literature, English education, travel writing and other topics through a combination of required reading, discussions and visits to culturally significant sites, Newman said.

“We intend that students in this program gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the literature and culture, of the connection between high and popular culture in England past and present, and of the practices and attitudes of the working travel writer,” Newman added.

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