Reflections on New Experiences

Reflections on New Experiences

Recently, as part of their Online Professional and Academic Learning Course (OPAL), Global UGRAD students participated in a local initiative or event surrounding inclusivity and belonging. Three students shared their reflections on new experiences, featured below. Daniela Plamadeala | Moldova | University of North Carolina – Wilmington “I recently had the opportunity to volunteer at the Cape Fear Latino Festival …

Spotlight on Current Students

Spotlight on Current Students

Global UGRAD students have the opportunity to pursue both their passions and a wide range of new interests throughout their semester in the United States, including participating in pitch competitions, producing media for their host institutions, and having quintessential American experiences. The three students featured in this article represent a small sample of the achievements and unique experiences shared by …

Welcoming the Fall Global UGRAD Cohort

Welcoming the Fall Global UGRAD Cohort

World Learning is pleased to welcome Global UGRAD participants from all across the world to the United States. The 2024-2025 cohort includes 330 students with 137 enrolled this semester. Representing 62 countries/areas, these students are hosted at 59 partner universities and colleges throughout the United States. All Global UGRAD participants attending the fall semester have arrived at their host campuses …

What’s in Your Bag?

What’s in Your Bag?

Every semester, a new cohort of UGRAD students arrives in the United States, excited to begin the once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Global UGRAD Program. While they will spend the coming months exploring a new country and meeting new people, they will also retain their connections to their homes in a variety of ways. Despite limited space in their suitcases, UGRAD …

End of Program Workshop Photo Contest and Scavenger Hunt

End of Program Workshop Photo Contest and Scavenger Hunt

What is one word to describe the final night of the End of Program Workshop? Celebration! A well-known Global UGRAD tradition, the photo contest is the perfect way for students to share the best snapshots of their exchange experience. Students were asked to submit photos of their best memories in the following categories: American Experiences, Community Service, School Spirit, Sharing …

Current Student Spotlight: Kenya

Current Student Spotlight: Kenya

Hello, my name is Ian Adipo, and I am from Kenya. Global UGRAD is an enriching experience that I have long wanted to be a part of. My dreams came true in January 2023, when I was selected for an interview out of hundreds of applicants. After successfully interviewing, I moved on to the next phase and completed my TOEFL …

Travel and Adventures

Travel and Adventures

Throughout the semester, Global UGRAD students have used their weekends and spring break to explore cities and regions across the United States. From Chicago to Los Angeles to New York City, Global UGRADs have visited many popular cities as well as a number of sites off the beaten path. Below are some stories and highlights that Global UGRADs have shared …

Sports in the United States

Sports in the United States

Across the country Global UGRAD participants have been enjoying a wide range of sports activities, both on and off campus. For many, this is their first time watching or joining athletic activities typical of the United States. We asked students to describe their experiences, so read on to learn more! Mark Virgil Jamer | Philippines | Kent State University “This …

Campus Visit: Bluefield State University

Campus Visit: Bluefield State University

This February, Global UGRAD Program Officer Melanie Winters and Senior Program Associate Cameron Teaney had the pleasure of visiting Bluefield State University (BSU) in Bluefield, West Virginia. During this visit they toured BSU’s campus and met with the friendly and hospitable staff supporting the four Global UGRAD students studying there this semester. BSU is one of only two Historically Black …