Upon returning home after her UGRAD program, Andrea Susibeth Mendez Colmenares (2013-2014 Venezuela) began brainstorming ways to help the children in her community. “Hoy por Ellos” is the fruit of her hard work, an initiative that won grant funding through the 2014 Alumni Engagement Initiative supported by World Learning and Newman’s Own Foundation. Her project is now listed on UNICEF’s …
Jargalmaa Erdenemandakh, a 2011-2012 UGRAD student from Mongolia, shares transformative events in her life after the Global UGRAD program. The Department of State’s undergraduate scholarship (UGRAD) administered by World Learning was a stepping stone in my academic and professional career. I spent one wonderful exchange year at the University of Minnesota (UMN) followed by the continuation of my adventure in …
For many UGRADs, this November marked their first celebration of the American tradition of Thanksgiving. In the spirit of the holiday, we asked our students what they are thankful for this year; the answer is: a lot! Jorge Luis Rojas Ortega of Costa Rica shares his thoughts. In this photo you can see my new American friend and her family. They …
Once you start volunteering, it’s hard to want to stop! This is a sentiment the World Learning staff has heard over and over from Global UGRAD participants this fall. First-semester academic students are required to complete a minimum of twenty service hours, but that has not stopped many from reaching into the 40-50 hour range. One participant said, “It feels …
From November 19-22, World Learning hosted the Fall Re-entry workshop for 46 students from East Asia and the Pacific and the Western Hemisphere. Si Norton, Director of Youth Programs for World Learning, facilitated interactive sessions on leadership, communication for professional networking and reverse culture shock. Students explored the nation’s capital on a scavenger hunt focused which focused on team building, …
From November 17th to the 21st, UGRAD students across the country celebrated International Education Week. From cooking typical dishes from home to performing traditional dances, UGRADs made an impact by participating in cultural events that showcased their talents. World Learning UGRAD participant Kais, currently studying at Kent State University, was even honored as the “International Student of the Week” at …
The UGRAD team at World Learning wishes you a warm and relaxing holiday break. As we reflect on the past year, we have so much to be thankful for – a great cohort of 2014 UGRADs from nearly 50 countries, inspiring alumni all around the globe, and a promising new year. May the new year bring everything you wish for! As …