What Global UGRADs Are Bringing to the U.S.

What Global UGRADs Are Bringing to the U.S.

By now, more than half of the students have moved into their dorms while the rest are eagerly sorting their items and packing their luggage in preparation for the journey to the United States. Though they have limited space in their suitcases, Global UGRADs always make room for items that are meaningful to them. They may bring things that serve …

Host Site Visits: Minnesota State University Mankato & Missouri State University

Host Site Visits: Minnesota State University Mankato & Missouri State University

  Minnesota State University Mankato This semester, Global UGRAD Program Officer Sarah Halligan had the opportunity to visit Minnesota State University (MNSU) Mankato. It was an opportunity to meet with various departments within the university and also meet the five students who attended MNSU Mankato this spring: Abdoulaye Hali Aboubacar (Niger), Ayu Silvia (Indonesia), Khamla Invongkham (Laos), Sharon Colindres (Honduras), and …

Spring 2023 Student Reflection

Spring 2023 Student Reflection

Vernon Gawi from Papua New Guinea attended West Virginia University during the spring 2023 semester. Prior to the conclusion of his program, he shared the following reflection on some of his experiences in the United States. These include the trip to Washington, DC for the Global UGRAD Workshop as well as cultural experiences garnered while traveling during school breaks. Global UGRAD …

End of Program Workshop Photo Contest

End of Program Workshop Photo Contest

During last month’s End of Program Workshop, the winning images of the Global UGRAD photo contest were featured during the final dinner celebration. The World Learning team received an overwhelming number of photos from participants this semester, and as is tradition, the team selected a few favorites! – Hali Abdoulaye Aboubacar (Niger, Minnesota State University Mankato) roasting marshmallows with friends. – …

Community Service Spotlight: Spring 2023

Community Service Spotlight: Spring 2023

As one of their program requirements, Global UGRAD participants complete a minimum of 20 hours of community service during their semester in the United States. For many students, this becomes one of the most meaningful and inspirational activities they take part in during the program. Continue reading for a selection of highlights from community service activities that participants completed in …

Host Site Visit: San Francisco State University

Host Site Visit: San Francisco State University

Last month, Global UGRAD program officer Amy Broome visited San Francisco State University to meet with students, tour the campus, and connect with the many individuals on campus who make the semester so successful for Global UGRAD students. San Francisco State University (SF State), a part of the California State University system, is located in the southwest corner of San Francisco, …

Experiencing America: UGRAD Travel Stories

Experiencing America: UGRAD Travel Stories

Experiencing the United States and American culture through travel is an essential part of the Global UGRAD program. During the semester, World Learning has heard many stories of the incredible experiences Global UGRAD participants have had around the U.S. Below are some highlights of the culturally-enriching places the spring 2023 Global UGRADs have traveled to!   “Hello everyone! I am …

Host Partner Feature: University of Central Missouri

Host Partner Feature: University of Central Missouri

World Learning is excited to showcase the University of Central Missouri (UCM) in this month’s host partner feature! UCM is currently home to seven Global UGRAD participants: Medgunowsky Balthazar II Laguerre (Haiti), Qori Fadila (Indonesia), Sheila Jamal (Mozambique), Holman Castro (Nicaragua), Cheolmin Park (South Korea), Bibinyyaz Omarova (Turkmenistan), and Orest Matsiyevsky (Ukraine). Wesley Hobson, Coordinator of Exchange and Sponsored Programs at UCM, shared how …

Alumni Reflection: Cambodia

Alumni Reflection: Cambodia

Chanreaksmey Sum was a Global UGRAD participant in the first cohort to arrive in the United States following the program hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She attended Presbyterian College during the Fall semester of 2021 and wrote an essay on her website about the seven stages of her experience while she was there. She’s happy to share her essay for …

Host Site Visit: University of Wyoming

Host Site Visit: University of Wyoming

This spring, World Learning will visit four Global UGRAD host campuses across the country. Visiting partner universities and colleges affords World Learning staff the opportunity to get an ‘on-the-ground’ experience and meet university staff and students in person. This month, Global UGRAD program officer, Jordan Ferrick, visited the University of Wyoming – home of the Cowboys! The University of Wyoming (UW) is …