Student and Alumni Spotlight
The Student Alumni & Spotlight page celebrates the achievements, growth, and continued success of students who have participated in the Student Development and Enrichment Program. This space highlights alumni accomplishments, career pathways, leadership experiences, and personal milestones that reflect the program’s commitment to academic excellence, professional development, and community engagement.
Through featured spotlights, we recognize current students and alumni who exemplify resilience, initiative, and service, showcasing how skills developed through the program translate into success beyond the classroom. By sharing these stories, the page serves both as recognition of individual achievement and as inspiration for current and future participants to pursue their goals with confidence and purpose.
Student Study Abroad Experiences

Camila Valdez '26; Location: Berlin, Germany
"I was part of the 2026 J-Term cohort and studied brewing in Berlin, Germany. It was truly an experience I’ll never forget. In just two weeks, I grew so much both personally and academically. Being immersed in a different culture pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me see new perspectives beyond what I was used to at home. Even as the only Stevens student among 40+ students, I really enjoyed the challenge of connecting with people from different backgrounds and exploring our differences, both with each other and with the country itself. I’d absolutely recommend taking the leap; it’s a challenge in the best way possible."

Kevin Aponte '26; Location: Tokyo, Japan
"Traveling to a part of the world I had never been to was an amazing experience, especially getting to see the cultural differences firsthand. Living in such a fast-paced environment pushed me to be more independent, whether that meant learning the train system or navigating everyday life in a different language. I loved how Tokyo mixes old traditions with modern technology, like seeing a shrine in the middle of a busy city block surrounded by skyscrapers. Each day, I learned something new from my classes, the people, and the culture. Overall, my time in Tokyo helped me grow, build confidence, and see the world differently."

Autumn Coleman '26; Location: Ifsa, Rome
"Studying abroad was one of the best experiences of my life. I stayed in Rome for a humanities course, explored historic sites like the Colosseum and Pompeii, and took a day trip to Florence to see the David. As a history lover, seeing the ruins up close was incredible, and the food was unforgettable. I hope to return to Italy someday, and I always encourage my friends to study abroad too."

