Testimonials
January 2006
“…Bruce, I want to tell you that my trip with you to Europe was life altering in the best sense of the term. Never have I done something so important for myself. So, thank you thank you thank you.”
Amanda Michas
(Study Abroad Europe Program, 2005)
March 2004
“I am presently attending Douglas College and I saw the posters about the Europe trips. I just wanted to let you know that when I went with you in 1989, it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. It gave me the confidence to travel anywhere, by myself or with friends. I've done a lot of traveling since then and have enjoyed every minute of it.”
“Anyway, I just wanted to say a belated thanks for the great, life-altering experience…do you think you can hang in there another 12 years until my daughter is 18?”
Andrea Albanese
(Study Abroad Europe Program, 1989)
January 2004
“Thanks Bruce! You are the best. Your above-and-beyond efforts are noted by your adoring students, that’s for sure…if they had some sort of “teacher of the year award at Langara, you’d get my nod!”
Kallista Bell
(Study Abroad Europe Program, 2003)
Student Comments - Study Abroad Europe 2005
“I have learned more than I ever imaged possible… Bruce Hanbury is a true inspiration of what an educator should be, knowledgeable, passionate and posses the ability to put art into context, making it relatable as well as interesting…”
“This trip wouldn’t have been possible without the constant love and care of Bruce and Wendy, who were always watching out for us and making sure we had the best trip possible… thank you…”
“This entire experience has been one of the most significant learning opportunities of my whole life and I would like to sincerely thank Bruce and Wendy for all the time, effort, consideration and unwavering patience…”
“I believe that this trip gave me a deeper understanding of art and life that could never have been accomplished in a classroom. I am looking forward to applying what I’ve learned in my own creative journeys with what I have come to understand; life is art and art is life”
“My trip to Europe has been everything I though it would be and more… having a teacher who was not only knowledgeable in the world of art, but was easily approachable made this trip even better…(and lessened)… my homesickness. It was like having a parent there with you, but a fun one that gives you a lot of freedom… This trip is truly a special milestone in my life that I will continuously think about and cherish always”
“This trip has been an amazing experience… and made me realize my strengths and weaknesses, and my ability to adapt to new people, places and cultures. This experience has provided me with the challenge… to understand who I am… I have been part of an experience of a lifetime and would like to thank Bruce and Wendy…for a journey I will never forget”
Student Comments - Study Abroad Europe 2004
“Topic: 2004 Trip to Europe
Focus: Bruce and Wendy
Reaction: Awesome! Thank you guys sooo much! We’ll always remember this…” - Georgia Quinn
“Bruce and Wendy, your divine guidance has shown us the way…Art History has never been so much fun” - Ian Prentice
This was an experience of a lifetime, you have enlightened us all…” - Michelle Didier
You both have become the “European Parents” to so many people over the years. You are amazing! Thank you for inspiring me.” - Alice Hess
Student Comments - Study Abroad Europe 2003
“Bruce and Wendy, you’ve done so much for us on this trip…thank you…I have learned more in the past two months, than I have in the past year” - Emily Keurvorst
“Bruce and Wendy…you are truly magnificent! I have never met anyone else as caring and giving as you two. Thank you so much for being the heart and soul of this trip and not only teaching us about Art History, but important life lessons as well… - Kathryn He
“Bruce and Wendy…thank you so much for a wonderful trip…I had a fabulous time…I truly believe that this is the perfect trip for the “Europe Rookie”.” - Melissa Perry
Student Comments - Study Abroad Europe 2001
Wendy and Bruce, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to experience new cultures, new people and of course art! I appreciate all the planning and time you put into this trip and I hope that you will continue to provide this kind of experience to others in the future… I can already see the new and exciting impact this trip has had on my life…” - Liz Howie
“…thank you very much for this unforgettable, once in a lifetime experience! Learning a subject by being in the environment allowed me to actually feel the history and culture behind it. I have learned more on this trip than any other semester and I am so pleased that I have found a passion for art!...Thank you for opening up my world – allowing me to reach goals I’d never imagined” - Jess Fransen
Student Comments - Study Abroad Europe 2000
“Bruce and Wendy… The coolest “couple-teachers” “parents away from home” in the world! Rock On!… thank you both for your coolness, for your kindness, for your support and encouragement, for just being yourselves… I will never forget Europe with you guys” - Jennifer Blas
“Bruce and Wendy, you were more than just teachers and instructors, tour guides and friends…you were our parents away from home and reliable and fun to the end… thanks for giving me the experience of a lifetime and for watering the seeds of creativity and artistic prowess in me that I didn’t know I possessed… you’ll always be in my memories… but I’m sure you’ll see me again soon… in class… I love modern art now thanks to you!” - Diana Lee
“Bruce and Wendy, There are really no words to express what I feel … I suppose GRATITUDE comes close, yet is such an understatement. You have both made a difference in my life that I will hold close to me forever. Thank you for showing me beauty beyond belief and for sharing the world with me…” - Joanna Lemay
“Bruce you are an amazing teacher. It’s so great to listen to someone who is so passionate about what he is teaching…it’s been incredible! - Karen Kuk
“The perfect trip … travel, culture and art. Everything lived up to expectation and I was exposed to artists and philosophies that deeply affected me. The journal project gave focus to all that we learned and will act as the ultimate souvenir. Thank you for all of your instruction and organization. - Alex Dawkins
Thanks for the teachings “n” the influences for the patience and understanding and for all the other things that will make a person go places. - Ivan Contramaestre-Luces
Bruce, you are a fantastic teacher. Art History is so much fun taught by you. If all teachers were like you no student would play truant…Wendy you are a great organizer! I admire your patience, your efficiency, your grace and your style. Wish I could take everything in stride as gracefully as you. - Teresa Lam Pau
Let me tell it like it is, can I say it like I feel it? This has been the best trip for sure! Thank you so much for an amazing experience. You have both gone above and beyond the call of duty to give us the trip of a lifetime, Your kindness and generosity have been overwhelming. I appreciate what an amazing thing you two are doing. It takes two very special people to take on such a job, and you are both wonderful at it. - Courtenay Kendall
Group 2005
“I believe that this trip gave me a deeper understanding of art and life that could never have been accomplished in a classroom. I am looking forward to applying what I’ve learned in my own creative journeys with what I have come to understand; life is art and art is life.”
“My trip to Europe has been everything I though it would be and more… having a teacher who was not only knowledgeable in the world of art, but was easily approachable made this trip even better…(and lessened)… my homesickness. It was like having a parent there with you, but a fun one that gives you a lot of freedom… This trip is truly a special milestone in my life that I will continuously think about and cherish always.”
“This trip has been an amazing experience… and made me realize my strengths and weaknesses, and my ability to adapt to new people, places and cultures. This experience has provided me with the challenge… to understand who I am… I have been part of an experience of a lifetime and would like to thank Bruce and Wendy…for a journey I will never forget.”
Group 2004
“Bruce and Wendy, your divine guidance has shown us the way…Art History has never been so much fun.”
- Ian Prentice
"This was an experience of a lifetime, you have enlightened us all…”
- Michelle Didier
"You both have become the “European Parents” to so many people over the years. You are amazing! Thank you for inspiring me.”
- Alice Hess