Alnwick Castle study abroad programme thrives after five decades of welcoming US students

St Cloud State University, Minnesota, has had a base in Alnwick since 1976 – offering students the unique opportunity of living and studying within the walls of the castle.

Former student, Wade Sherman took part in the programme back in 1996 – an experience that shaped his life – later returning to Alnwick where he has now lived for just under 22-years as resident director.

He said: “I have always had a bit of a wanderlust and Alnwick was my first international experience. I’m not sure I expected to come back and be leading the programme but when the opportunity came, I jumped on it.”

Wade’s role involves acting as a bridge between the American students and life in Northumberland, helping them with the cultural transition and making connections within the community.

"The programme has evolved with modern times but what has stayed consistent is just how welcoming Alnwick is to all of our students and how much they enjoy being here in Northumberland,” he added.

“For students who may not have gone far out of St Cloud, this is a really big step and gives them the opportunity to realise the world is an incredible place.”

Students can come to Alnwick from a variety of courses. While on site, they can immerse themselves in British culture, studying Reflections on the British Cultural Experience, Contemporary Britain, Early Modern Britain and Introduction to Psychology.

International Relations student Isaac Arellano is currently on his study abroad in Alnwick – something his mother, who was also a student at St Cloud, encouraged him to do.

Issac said: “My mother always wanted to do the trip but she couldn't afford it at the time so she wanted to make sure I had the chance to go myself.

“I gave myself a lot of doubt about travelling and being on my own and when I got here, I realised how independent I was as a person. I didn't need to rely on others as much as I thought.”

Business student, Olivia added: “I heard all about my programme all throughout my first year and so I knew I wanted to go. I had met and talked to a bunch of people who had come here and absolutely loved it.

“This was my first time travelling outside of the US and this was the perfect stepping stone to start travelling the world and getting to know things outside of my country.”

Postgraduate student, Cassidy is studying college counselling and student development. Cassidy worked at the International Office back at St Cloud where she promoted the programme to others before she was offered the chance to come to Alnwick herself on an internship.

“I wanted to come and see the magic everyone has been telling me about for myself. It’s so cool that you get to live in a castle,” she revealed.

“I have learnt to be more open-minded, and how to navigate public transport abroad which has been challenging.”