[Clinton, N.C.]– Sampson Community College (SCC) is crossing borders—literally. For the first time in SCC’s history, SCC is offering a faculty-led Study Abroad trip to London and Paris, March 26–April 2, 2027, opening the door to global learning for students and community members alike.

Led by SCC faculty members Sarah Burgin and Josiah King, with SECHS Liaison, Emily Ko, this international experience will give participants the chance to explore two of Europe’s most iconic cities and engaging in hands-on, cross-cultural learning.

“These cities are not only rich in history and culture, but they also offer our students an incredible opportunity to expand their worldviews, gain global perspectives, and experience hands-on learning that simply can’t be replicated in a classroom,” said Josiah King, Art Instructor.

Participants will explore major landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Piccadilly Circus, and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, and Notre Dame, the Champs-Elysées, Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Versailles, and the Louvre in Paris. The itinerary includes guided tours, immersive cultural experiences, and opportunities to reflect on how history, psychology, and art intersect in real-world settings.

Sarah Burgin, Psychology Instructor, echoed the value of international travel for student development: “Experiencing different cultures firsthand helps individuals grow personally and academically. For many community college students, this may be their first time abroad, and I want to support them in navigating and embracing that experience,” Burgin said. “It’s an opportunity to expand their perspectives, build confidence, and connect their studies to the wider world. I hope this trip inspires a lifelong curiosity and appreciation for global learning.”

This study abroad experience is fully guided from start to finish, meaning all major logistics—flights, lodging, transportation, meals, tours, and activities—are coordinated in advance by experienced educational travel partners and SCC faculty. Participants can focus on exploring, learning, and enjoying the journey without the burden of planning or navigating unfamiliar cities alone. With a structured itinerary and built-in support, this is a seamless, worry-free way to experience international travel.

The trip is open to any current SCC student, faculty, staff, alumni, or community member. To participate, individuals must be at least 18 years old by March 25, 2027. Financial aid and fundraising opportunities may be available for eligible students.

True to its mission—Begin Here, Go Anywhere—Sampson Community College is proud to offer this opportunity to bring the world within reach.

“This program is about more than travel… it’s about growth, curiosity, and preparing students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world,” concluded King. “We’re proud to open this opportunity not only to our students, but also to members of the community who want to travel with purpose. We warmly invite the public to join us on this unforgettable adventure.”

For more information, please contact Josiah King at jking@sampsoncc.edu or Sarah Burgin at sburgin@sampsoncc.edu.

About Sampson Community College:  Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options and early college education.