Madison Margaret – Brookdale Community College
This summer, Madison Margaret embarked on an unforgettable journey to Amsterdam as a participant in a program focused on Abnormal Psychology & Human Sexuality through Brookdale Community College in New Jersey. Madison Margaret was also a recipient of a SAA Community and Technical College Scholarship for 2025.
What began as a chance to explore a new city quickly turned into a deeply personal and professional milestone – one that combined academic theory, cultural exploration, and transformative self-growth.
A Masterpiece of Learning: Psychology Meets Art
One of the standout moments of Madison Margaret’s time abroad was a visit to the iconic Van Gogh Museum. What made it more than just a sightseeing excursion was how it directly aligned with her coursework. As part of her abnormal psychology curriculum, Madison Margaret had been learning about mental health diagnoses, ethical treatment frameworks, and the role of art therapy in psychological care.
Walking through the museum, surrounded by Van Gogh’s bold brushstrokes and emotional intensity, she saw the direct connection between the artist’s mental health journey and the therapeutic power of creative expression.
“His work connected him back to reality during times he had no grip over his condition otherwise,” she reflected. “It helped me connect with the subject matter on a new level, emotionally and intellectually.”
A City That Surprised and Comforted
Madison Margaret knew Amsterdam would be charming, but she was blown away by how easy and enjoyable everyday life felt there. From the friendly locals, to the clean streets and super easy public transportation, she felt comfortable right away.
Even the smallest details made an impact. “The fast food was real, yummy food. The manners in public spaces, the quality of sanitation, it just made everything more comforting.”
These pleasant surprises enhanced her learning experience, creating the kind of environment where students can fully absorb both the academic and cultural components of their program.
Advice to Her Pre-Departure Self? “Prepare to Fall in Love.”
If she could talk to herself before the program, Madison Margaret would deliver a clear message: be open, and expect joy.
“I would tell myself that I will fall in love with the beautiful, unique, quirky things Amsterdam has to offer and I will want to go back.”
Building a Global Network, One Connection at a Time
Madison Margaret’s experience wasn’t just rich with knowledge, it also opened doors to her professional future. While visiting a local tattoo studio on a free day, she struck up a conversation with the owner, who had worked in New York City for over 15 years. Their creative connection led to an invitation: Madison was offered the opportunity to return to Amsterdam as a guest artist.
And it wasn’t the only connection that will carry forward. From conversations in cafés to spontaneous meetups in the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, she built a new global network: one that she plans to nurture both personally and professionally.
A Lasting Impact
From classroom conversations about trauma and healing to tram rides across a clean and courteous city, Madison Margaret’s summer in Amsterdam brought her education to life in ways a traditional classroom never could.
As faculty leaders consider future opportunities for their students, Madison Margaret’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of a study abroad program, not only as a cultural experience, but as a true extension of academic learning and career development.