10/13/2026
Yorktown, Virginia native Ella Ritchey came to JMU knowing she wanted to study abroad. Through joining the Honors College, she discovered opportunities, friendships, and experiences that expanded her perspective far beyond the classroom.
Her favorite Honors memory was the service-learning study abroad trip to the Dominican Republic during her first year, where she gained a deeper understanding of global engagement and formed friendships that have lasted throughout college. As Ella puts it, “Honors really stretches so far beyond JMU’s campus.”
Ella also credits Honors with helping her to connect with students across disciplines and see how different ideas and experiences come together. From her first-year Honors seminar to opportunities around the world, the Honors College has helped her build a broader perspective of both her education and her future.
Today, Honors continues to support her academic and professional growth through the Partners in Peace program, helping her turn global interests into meaningful action.
“Just do it,” Ella said about applying to Honors. “When you say yes to these opportunities, it opens doors that you wouldn’t have otherwise.”
