Tom's View from 30,000 Feet
Learning in the Living Classroom
When SYA students “move the school” to places like Naples, learning doesn’t pause — it expands. From student-led presentations on the bus to exploring the ruins of Pompeii to discovering local traditions in the streets and cloisters of the city, the Living Classroom turns culture, history and daily life into firsthand academic experiences. These immersive moments challenge students to think independently, engage thoughtfully and grow in confidence — the kind of learning they carry with them long after their SYA year ends.
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As Tom enters his final four months as president, we celebrate his legacy through the Tom Hassan World of Opportunities Fund. Thanks to early support, more than $400,000 has already been committed to help ensure every SYA student can fully engage in the experience, from independent travel with peers to accessing essential resources that make immersion possible. The fund reflects Tom’s belief that financial limitations should never stand in the way of curiosity, connection and growth.
During recent SYA Moments Tour stops, alumni and friends shared powerful stories of how SYA shaped their lives. With Tom’s retirement approaching, now is the moment to honor his leadership and invest in future students. Will you share your SYA Moment? We will be compiling these special memories and presenting them to Tom before he retires at the end of June.
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| Italy is calling. The celebration is almost here.
Alumni, families and former colleagues from across campuses and decades are making their plans to return — and we hope you’ll be among them. Experience Italy through SYA’s eyes, connect with the people who make this community special and join us as we celebrate this extraordinary SYA Italy milestone — together, in person.
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Join us for unforgettable gatherings of connection, celebration and reflection as we honor Tom’s ten years of leadership — and the countless moments that make SYA so special. Register for Chicago, New York City, LA and Denver below. See photos from this year's events.
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Recognition Starts With a Nomination
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Nominations for this year’s SYA awards are open through March 15. Take a moment to celebrate an alum or community member whose impact deserves to be honored. Learn more about the awards and submit your nomination today.
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The Enduring Power of Story
What is our true superpower in a world dominated by algorithms and artificial intelligence? For surgeon, author, and SYA alumna Pauline Chen ’82, it’s not speed or scale — it’s story, and the willingness to listen.
From prehistoric cave paintings she first encountered as an SYA France student to her reflections in "Behind Every Brush Stroke" in Loomis Chaffee Magazine, Pauline shows how human connection and empathy are skills no machine can replicate.
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Our scholars have paused to take stock of how far they’ve come — from those first uncertain weeks to the confidence, friendships and independence growing each day. Their photographic reflections capture both milestone moments and everyday discoveries that define an SYA experience.
These midyear reflections remind us that such experiences don’t happen by chance. Through endowed funds and class-led giving, doors in France, Italy and Spain are opened to a year of possibilities that might otherwise remain out of reach.
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This month, our Campus Storytellers highlight the moments that turn study abroad into something deeply human. In Rennes, Charlotte discovers the joy of intercultural and intergenerational connection while volunteering at a local nursing home. In Zaragoza, Calleigh sees her experience anew as she welcomes incoming students and shares the places that shaped her own journey. And in Viterbo, Lucy returns after the holidays with a quiet confidence, realizing she’s no longer just studying abroad — she’s beginning to feel at home.
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When alums visit, campus life gets a little brighter. Whether returning to their own campus or exploring another SYA location, it’s a chance to speak with students, share their own experiences abroad and see how life at SYA continues to evolve — from the classroom to the community.
Visiting France, Italy or Spain? Let us know to help connect you to campus!
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| Need a new favorite sweatshirt or hoodie? Or maybe a coffee cup for your morning cappuccino?
Take a look at the online store for SYA merch — from cozy, travel-ready layers to everyday favorites that keep SYA close wherever you go. Browse the collection and find something that travels with you — or brings a little SYA into your daily routine.
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Our Mission
School Year Abroad (SYA) is committed to promoting intercultural understanding and appreciation through the immersive adventure of fully engaging with different languages and peoples. SYA guides its students through a challenging curriculum focused on developing skills and cultural competencies for an increasingly interdependent world.
Learn more about our focus and approach.
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Stay up-to-date with current activities and future events by following us on your favorite social media channels.
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www.sya.org
School Year Abroad
120 Water Street
Suite 310
North Andover, MA 01845
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© 2026 School Year Abroad | 120 Water Street, Suite 310 | North Andover, MA 01845 | www.sya.org
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