Theory-to-Practice Grant, ‘Expatriation and Inspiration in Lisbon’
Learn how OWU’s Course Connections, Travel-Learning Courses, Theory-to-Practice Grants, and other programs prepare students for global citizenship and leadership and help them…Make the Connection.
A group of Ohio Wesleyan students attended the DISQUIET International Literary Program in Lisbon. The program, run by North American writers with ties to Portugal, seeks to deepen mutual understanding among writers from both locations. (Photo by Elizabeth Riggio ’14)
Elizabeth Riggio ’14
Name: Elizabeth Riggio ’14
Majors: English and Spanish
Hometown: Itasca, Illinois
Experience: Theory-to-Practice Grant, July 2013: “Expatriation and Inspiration in Lisbon” – Lisbon, Portugal
“This was one of the most influential experiences I have ever had. I got the opportunity to spend two weeks with some of the best writers I have ever encountered. This program included daily workshops as well as excursions around Lisbon. It fostered an atmosphere of creativity and inspiration. Simply being around people who were so fascinating, who have traveled all over the world, who were so intelligent, was an honor and a chance to grow as a writer. We read and we critiqued each other’s writing, and we wrote new pieces. It was a writer’s heaven, not to mention located in one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen.
“My favorite workshop was one with a theme around travel writing. We were able to bring in our own experiences in writing and in travel to explore what these people and places mean to us and how they affect us now and in the future. I really got the chance to explore how my previous experiences have had an effect on who I am, but also how Lisbon and the program affected me and my writing as it was happening.”
Emily Knapp ’14
Name: Emily Knapp ’14
Majors: English and French
Hometown: Naperville, Illinois
Experience: Theory-to-Practice Grant, July 2013: “Expatriation and Inspiration in Lisbon” – Lisbon, Portugal
“We participated in a two week writing program where we were able to get our writings seen by major authors. They really tore our stories apart, but it was a great way to get feedback. We learned a lot about how writing helps with national identity and met amazing publishers and speakers.”