Watching Your Owl Take Flight:

A Rice Parent Reflects on Study Abroad

As a Rice alum and proud parent of two Owls, Erin Durant ’97 brings a uniquely personal perspective to her family's study abroad journey. In this Q&A, she reflects on watching her daughters — Lily ’26 and Annie ’28 — embrace their time at Hanszen College and shares how Lily’s study abroad experience deepened her confidence, broadened her worldview and strengthened her connection to Rice — illustrating the university’s commitment to expanding global learning opportunities through the Momentous strategic plan.

A Q&A with Erin Durant ’97

As a Rice alum and now a Rice parent, what has it been like seeing your children’s Rice journey?

It has been so wonderful to see Lily’s ’26 and Annie's ’28 journeys at Rice. I had not been back to Houston in at least 10 years before Lily visited, and I love that the campus is still so green and beautiful even with new buildings and additional colleges. Lily and Annie both chose to be at Hanszen, and hearing about their O-week and other social experiences brought back so many great memories of my time as a Hanszenite.

How did you support Lily as she planned for her study abroad program in Spain?

I was thrilled that Lily chose to study abroad in Granada, Spain. Having spent a semester at University College Galway in Ireland, I knew firsthand how transformative the experience could be. I lived with Irish students and traveled across Europe with a group of friends, which made me confident that Lily would also meet new people and have opportunities to explore.

Lily did her research, meeting with Rice’s study abroad office to review programs and deadlines and talking with classmates who had studied abroad to get practical tips on packing, travel and daily life.

What was Lily’s experience like living in Granada?

Lily's experience in Spain was an extension of the growth and development we've seen since she matriculated at Rice. She was a little anxious before she left, which of course is normal! Something special about the Granada program is that almost all students are staying in a home instead of living in a dorm or apartment. She was placed with the most welcoming and supportive family and developed close relationships with her host mom and sisters. She really challenged herself to speak Spanish as much as possible. Being in a smaller city allowed her to have an immersive experience beyond being a tourist.

How did the program support your student academically and personally?

The program had a cohort of about 15 American students studying in Granada. They organized activities focusing on the Catholic and Muslim culture and history there, including a weekend in Morocco where they met with other students. The differences in opportunity there, especially for the female students, made a huge impression on Lily.

What surprised you most about the experience as a parent?

Despite her being so far away, we were so happy to be able to feel like we were able to hear so much about her studies, the volunteer work she did, the new friends she made and the travel she was able to do on breaks.

What would you tell other Rice parents who are considering study abroad for their student?

If your Owl is able to study abroad, even for a summer, it will add so much to their Rice experience. I know many students worry about missing out on what is happening at Rice while they are gone, but the time goes so fast and they will return with so much to share.

Why do you think this opportunity is such a valuable part of a Rice education?

The ability to experience a different academic environment while navigating a new culture develops skills and confidence. And a global perspective is valuable no matter what you plan to do after graduation. Lily also made friends and connections with other students that broadened her network. Ultimately, she was even more excited and energized to return to her studies at Rice after this experience abroad.