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An old 18th-century Central European chateau. Grand castles. Stunning cathedrals. A beautiful waterfall. Towering peaks as far as the eye can see.

No, we aren’t describing a scene out of a novel or spotlighting a European travel guide. This, dear readers, is a history conference— (FSS), to be exact.

������Ƶ alumna Liberty Poley ’24 recently attended the prestigious FSS seminar, held in Bratislava and Spiš, Slovakia. The seminar is an immersive, international program that brings together students from across the United States and Europe to discuss enduring philosophical and political questions.

A Unique Study Abroad Experience for History Students

Each year, this ten-day seminar invites a select group of students to engage with American and Slovak professors in seminars that explore Western philosophy, social theory, and contemporary political discourse. The program is hosted in some of the most scenic and historically rich areas of Slovakia, offering a rare blend of academic rigor and cultural immersion.

To attend, students must complete a competitive application that includes an essay, curriculum vitae (CV), writing sample, letter of recommendation, and a statement of interest. All admitted students receive fellowships that cover tuition, lodging, meals, and excursions.

Poley discovered the opportunity through the (ISI).

She had attended several ISI events during her undergraduate years, thanks to her mentor, Dr. Aaron N. (Nathan) Coleman, who encouraged her to connect with the program. Because ISI’s mission aligns closely with that of FSS, alumni were invited to apply.

“As a history student at the ������Ƶ, I fell in love with studying the history and philosophy of Western tradition,” she explained. “The idea of studying Western classics amongst students from both the Old and New World intrigued my interest.”

Where History Comes Alive: Castles, Cathedrals, and Seminars

After her acceptance, Poley flew into Vienna, Austria, and was transported to Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, where the seminar began at an old 18th-century chateau.

“The first level held a chapel, where we attended daily mass. The second story had a ballroom for hosting events and large dinners, as well as a classroom where our lectures and seminars took place, and a smaller dining room where we had most of our home-cooked traditional meals.”

Students, including Poley, began each day with three seminars focused on pre-assigned readings. Afternoons were reserved for cultural exploration—visiting ancient cities, cathedrals, and breathtaking castles.

“We left Bratislava and traveled east to the Spiš region. When we arrived, the mountains stunned all of us Americans. We stayed below them in a small Medieval, Catholic village,” she said.

“Lush green grass covered the fields, and the largest castle in Central Europe overlooked us from a nearby hill.”

The program ended with a hike through the Slovak mountains.

“We hiked 9 miles round trip to a gorgeous waterfall near the top of the mountains. It was absolutely stunning,” Poley shared.

A Cross-Cultural Conversation on Patriotism

While the sights were unforgettable, one particular seminar left the deepest mark on Poley. The topic: Is patriotism a virtue?

“Only decades ago, Slovakia represented the border of the Soviet Union. Many people died attempting to escape communist Slovakia,” Poley explained.

“During the discussion, one of the Slovakian men said, ‘It’s easy to be patriotic for an American. For us, we are constantly reminded of the country’s past sins. How can we be proud of that?’ He made a humbling point.”

After reflecting, Poley responded with a perspective grounded in American civic heritage.

“Are Americans patriotic because we are the greatest country in the world, or are we the greatest country in the world because we have a culture of patriotism extending back to our revolution? Generations of Americans sacrificed to the greater good of our country.”

These meaningful conversations were what made the trip so impactful.

“Your beliefs can only truly be held with confidence if you are willing to defend them with logical reasoning. I appreciate this experience for challenging me to think deeper about my worldviews.”

How ������Ƶ Prepared Her for This Moment

FSS wasn’t the first time Poley had been exposed to deep discussions on complex topics.

“The history and political science department could not have better prepared me for challenging academic opportunities like this,” she said. “The professors taught me how to make a claim and defend it with evidence and logic. Discussions amongst History classmates trained me to quickly articulate my ideas and responses. I would not be who I am today without the history department at ������Ƶ.”

For current and future students interested in pursuing a history degree at ������Ƶ, Poley offered encouragement and honesty.

“The history department truly changed my life for the better. It is a difficult major, but you will learn that you are capable of so much more than you think you are,” she said. “Plus, the history faculty are the best cooks on campus, and our department BBQs are unbeatable!”

Ready to explore the past and shape the future (and enjoy some good food along the way)?

Learn more about history majors and minors at ������Ƶ.