March is Global Spartan Month

Dear SJSU Colleagues,

I am thrilled to invite you to join us throughout March for Global Spartan Month (GSM), hosted by Global Engagement at San José State University (SJSU).

Global Spartan Month features a series of events that showcase our vibrant global community. It offers opportunities to engage in globally themed activities, including the Global Spartan Fair, Study Abroad information sessions, and cultural workshops. These events aim to broaden your global perspectives and create opportunities to foster meaningful connections.

Originally inspired by International Education Week, the idea for Global Spartan Month was introduced six years ago. It has now become a tradition at SJSU, bringing students, faculty, staff, and the community together to engage in cross-cultural dialogue and to thrive in an interconnected world.

Below are some of the exciting events happening during GSM:

Global Spartan Month Fair
March 6, 2025 | 11:30 AM-1:30 PM
7th Street Plaza

The Global Spartan Fair will have something for everyone, including a photo contest, a cultural culinary corner, a boulevard of languages, opportunities abroad, entertainment by cultural groups, and more. Join us for this fun event as we officially kick off GSM, connect and perhaps even win a prize.

 

Global Connections:
Holi (Colorful Artwork Creations)
March 17, 2025 | 02:00 PM-03:00 PM
SU Mtg Rm 2B

Global Connections is a weekly program featuring fun-filled activities where students can engage with different cultures from around the world and celebrate festivals and events such as Ramadan, Persian New Year, and Holi. It is a welcoming, inclusive space where students can learn, explore, and connect.

LEARN MORE

You can also view our Spartans Around the World infographic to discover how we are already engaging with the world. We look forward to your participation and engagement in GSM. Please help us spread the word about GSM by forwarding this email to your colleagues.

We can’t wait to see you at the many events during Global Spartan Month!

Sincerely,

Ronald F. Rogers, Ph.D
Vice Provost,
Academic Innovation and Institutional Effectiveness,
San José State University
San José, California

Diana Vazquez

Diana Vazquez

NAME: Diana Vazquez

MAJOR: Anthropology

PROGRAM: Germany CSU IP – University of Tubingen 2019-2020, FLP (Summer 2024): Nevis (ANTH)

EMAIL: diana.vazquez@sjsu.edu

BIO: 

Prior to attending SJSU, I was a student at Sonoma State University where I studied Computer Science. During my time there I had the opportunity to study abroad in Germany with CSU IP. However, due to the Pandemic my program was cut short to only one semester instead of the intended year. Despite the brevity of my time abroad, all of my experiences and growth gave me the push I needed to switch majors to something I actually loved doing. When I returned home I transferred to SJSU, and switched my major to Anthropology in order to study Archaeology and get the opportunity to continue exploring and learning about the world. Once here at SJSU I also had the amazing opportunity to study abroad again with the FLP to Nevis for an archaeological field school where I was able to finally dig into the world of archaeology, but also experience new parts of the world I had never seen before. Studying Abroad showed me that I want a career where I can be out in the world exploring and learning about different cultures. It also gave me the courage to dream about relocating abroad, where I hope to get into a Master’s and PhD program. My time studying abroad most definitely gave me a new perspective for the world, and a desire to explore every inch of our planet.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

When I left for my study abroad program, I had a long list of goals I wanted to achieve along with a broader rule of “exploring and trying new things.” My largest goal was of course to learn German and feel comfortable speaking the language to locals. Most of my goals centered around experiences and locations that I had been looking forward to for years. Such as going to see as many museums and historical sites as possible or finding a TARDIS in London. On my second program to Nevis in the Caribbean, my main goal was to learn the fundamental skills and techniques needed for an archaeological field project.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

Despite having already lived independently the three years prior to going abroad, the experience of being in a whole new country and environment pushed me even further to achieving my goals for my own happiness. At the time of my program, I was a Computer Science major, but I was unhappy being so. I remained in that major because so much of my family supported me doing so, but my time abroad gave me the proper push I needed. I realized that despite nearly completing my major, I wouldn’t live a fulfilling life if I didn’t pursue my true passions. Traveling to new countries and visiting so many world-renowned museums reawakened my love of archaeology, so when I came home I decided to aim for a career I would actually love and switch majors to Anthropology. 

Not only did that change bring me immense happiness with my career goals, but it also allowed me to study abroad again and this time with an archaeology centered program. My time in the field school on Nevis cemented how passionate I was about archaeology.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

The first half of my program was centered completely around learning German, whereas the second half would have been when I could freely choose classes of any discipline. While I didn’t leave Germany fluent in the language, I definitely was comfortable enough speaking it that I could hold a conversation with a local. By the time I left the country, I had a tighter grasp on the more difficult grammar rules and could remember more of the vocabulary. Had my program not been canceled early because of the Pandemic, I would have taken GE classes at the Uni my second semester there. A typical German class does not assign homework, and is instead based completely on lectures, personal studying, and either a final exam or paper.

On the other hand, my time in Nevis with the summer FLP was a much more expedited learning experience. In the short few weeks in the Caribbean I was taught on the field how to work in an archaeological dig by the leading professor and dig crew.

CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? 

Prior to going abroad, I had been learning German for about two years, so my main goal when studying abroad was to increase my language proficiency. Being immersed in the language so completely definitely helped me nearly complete that goal. In about three months my language level increased so much! During my second program I learned and gained the skills needed to work on an archaeological field project.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? 

There are so many stereotypes of Germans that tend to lean towards them being rude and strong tempered. However, my time in Germany showed me that is not the case. Every German I interacted with was very welcoming and considerate. I went into my program with no expectations for Germany other than a beautiful landscape and cold weather. But I left the program realizing that no matter how much I research a country, I can’t truly know a culture and its people until I actually experience it and immerse myself in said culture.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? 

When I initially began learning German, it was to be able to feel comfortable speaking the language when I studied abroad. I began university with the goal to study abroad, but not necessarily to learn a new language. However, since learning it I have now found out it will actually be very helpful in the field of archaeology. I unintentionally gave myself a very handy skill by studying abroad! Along the same lines, my time traveling to new cultural landscapes and interacting with people from different countries has also prepared me for my future career in archaeology. The skills and experiences I gained while on my FLP will be a crucial cornerstone in my archaeology foundation going forward with my degree and career.

 TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

Research! Any possible little question you could have about the location you will be going to, research it. Whether you are going to a whole new country or simply another state, having some knowledge of the location you will be going to will aid you so much. You could assume that your cultures and customs will be similar, but the truth is you won’t really know until you’re there. Research will be your best friend, both before you leave and when there. Another tip I can give is to make the most of your time abroad. Take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself and allow yourself to grow. Lastly, know your limits, don’t feel pressured to take part in experiences you won’t feel comfortable in. This time is for you to explore the world, do so at your own pace. Agreeing to plans you dislike and subsequently missing out on experiences you were looking forward to can end up being stains on an otherwise happy time. Have fun, Spartans!

 

Jeremy Gaviola Quero

Jeremy Quero

Near the river in Budapest in the pest side!

NAME: Jeremy Gaviola Quero

MAJOR: Engineering Technology Manufacturing Systems

PROGRAM: Business and Society – Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences – Rotterdam Netherlands (Spring 2023), The Intern Group – Hong Kong Special administrative regions of China (Summer 2025)

EMAIL: jeremy.quero@sjsu.edu

BIO: 

Prior to this experience, studying abroad was not part of my academic plan. I had envisioned my college journey as a straightforward path—attending classes and returning home for four years. However, that perspective changed when a study abroad representative visited my engineering careers class and introduced the possibility of studying internationally. This encounter ultimately led me to spend the Spring 2023 semester at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS), an experience that I believe every student should consider. I stepped out of my comfort zone, got to understand Dutch culture as well as the many other cultures present, and most importantly, I traveled across Europe with the friends I made in Rotterdam. In Summer 2025, I will further enhance my international experience by participating in The Intern Group program in Hong Kong for ten weeks. This opportunity will allow me to gain practical experience in engineering while expanding my professional and cultural understanding on a global scale. To any student considering studying or interning abroad—take the leap. These experiences go beyond academics; they are transformative opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural exploration, and self-discovery.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

I wanted to challenge myself by immersing myself in a completely new environment—living in a country where I had no prior experience, adapting to its culture, and learning how to navigate life on my own. My goal was not just to study abroad, but to truly understand how the Netherlands operates—both culturally and academically—and to prove to myself that I could succeed in a foreign setting. Living independently in a new country taught me valuable life skills, from managing day-to-day responsibilities to building connections with people from diverse backgrounds. On a professional level, I embraced the challenges that my host university presented, tackling them head-on with determination and resilience. Through this experience, I not only grew as a student but also as an individual, gaining confidence in my ability to adapt, overcome obstacles, and thrive in any environment.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact this experience had on me was not just gaining a global perspective, but also rediscovering my own identity. As an American citizen, I’ve always been immersed in a diverse culture, but studying abroad reminded me of my roots—what it truly means to be a Filipino. Being in a foreign country, away from familiar surroundings, allowed me to reflect on my heritage and appreciate the values instilled in me by my culture. Living alone and adjusting to a completely new environment pushed me to become more independent, resilient, and adaptable. I learned how to navigate challenges, embrace uncertainty, and find ways to succeed on my own. Beyond personal growth, this experience also changed the way I see education and work. Observing how students from different countries approach learning, problem-solving, and collaboration opened my eyes to new perspectives. I took the best aspects of their work ethics and applied them to my own, ultimately shaping me into a more well-rounded and globally aware individual.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

When it comes to research and presentations, ensuring success requires more than just preparation—it demands initiative and action. To excel, I make it a priority to take the first step by actively engaging in the process. Instead of relying solely on existing information, I go out into the field, make observations, and gather firsthand insights. By applying this proactive approach, I not only strengthen my research but also build confidence in my ability to analyze, present, and communicate effectively. Taking initiative allows me to develop a deeper understanding of my subject matter, making my presentations more insightful, engaging, and impactful.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? 

During my time abroad, I developed and strengthened several key skills: focus, resiliency, and perseverance. Focus: Studying abroad meant balancing independence, academics, and social life. I wanted to make the most of my time in Rotterdam—exploring the city and enjoying activities with the friends I made. However, I knew that in order to fully enjoy these experiences, I had to stay disciplined. I made it a priority to complete all my assignments before heading out, ensuring that I met my academic responsibilities while still making time for adventure. Resiliency: Adapting to a new academic system came with its challenges. The professors at RUAS often had different expectations, and there were moments when assignment instructions lacked clarity due to a lack of communication between faculty members. Rather than getting frustrated, I learned to adapt, ask the right questions, and deliver my best work despite the uncertainties. Perseverance: Moving to a new country alone meant stepping out of my comfort zone in more ways than one. I had to rebuild my social circle from scratch, which pushed me to take more initiative both in and outside of school. Through this, I formed friendships with students from all over the world, from Germany to Indonesia. This experience expanded my perspective beyond Dutch culture, allowing me to immerse myself in a truly global community. These skills—focus, resiliency, and perseverance—not only helped me thrive during my study abroad experience but continue to shape me as a student and professional today.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? 

One of the biggest takeaways from my study abroad experience was realizing that there is no single way to learn, work, or live. Different countries have their own educational systems, cultural expectations, and approaches to problem-solving. What might be considered a standard practice in one country can be entirely different in another. For example, at SJSU, the education system is structured with clear syllabi, assignment deadlines, and professors who frequently check in with students. In contrast, at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences , I noticed that the teaching approach was more independent, with professors expecting students to take more initiative in figuring out assignments. Sometimes, there were miscommunications between instructors, which required adaptability and problem-solving skills. This experience taught me how to navigate ambiguity and become more self-sufficient in my studies. Beyond academics, cultural differences also influence how people interact and collaborate. In some cultures, teamwork and collective decision-making are highly valued, while in others, individual initiative is encouraged. Meeting students from diverse backgrounds helped me see that there isn’t a “right” or “wrong” way to work—just different approaches shaped by history, traditions, and societal norms. Understanding this has made me more open-minded and adaptable when working in international environments. This realization is something I will carry with me into my future career. The world is increasingly interconnected, and being able to adapt to different working styles, respect diverse perspectives, and embrace new ways of learning will be crucial in any professional setting. This perspective has already pushed me further, leading me to apply for and secure a position with The Intern Group in Hong Kong for Summer 2025. I am eager to experience yet another work culture and gain even more insights into how people around the world approach education and business.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? 

This experience prepared me not just for school but for life. The way I see things now is completely different from how I did in those six months in 2023. Moving forward, studying abroad has taught me to be more independent and has given me greater confidence in my academic methods. Meeting new people from different backgrounds helped me realize that everyone has their own way of working and their own unique journey. Personally, I will continue to challenge myself by taking more risks to grow and become more successful. Studying abroad pushed me beyond my limits, inspiring me to seek even greater opportunities. Because of this, I took another leap and successfully secured a position with The Intern Group for the Hong Kong program in Summer 2025. This is another step in my journey of personal and professional growth, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

If I could give one piece of advice to future Global Spartans, it would be this: take initiative and challenge yourself—not just as a student, but as a person. Studying or interning abroad is more than just an academic or professional experience; it’s an opportunity for personal growth, cultural exploration, and self-discovery. Wherever you go, embrace the journey with an open mind and a willingness to push your limits. It’s natural to feel nervous about traveling to a new country, especially if it’s your first time living abroad. However, don’t let fear hold you back. The only person stopping you from experiencing life is yourself. Say yes to opportunities, whether it’s trying new foods, learning a new language, or making friends from different backgrounds. Every new experience will help shape you into a more confident, adaptable, and globally aware individual. Opportunities like these don’t come around often. Make the most of them. Whether you’re studying, interning, or volunteering abroad, commit yourself fully to the experience. Engage with your host culture, get involved in local activities, and challenge yourself academically and professionally. There will be moments of uncertainty and challenges along the way, but that’s where the real growth happens. While academics or professional work are important, don’t forget to enjoy the journey. Travel, explore, and immerse yourself in the culture of your host country. Meet new people, form lifelong friendships, and create memories that you’ll carry with you forever. The best stories come from the experiences you never expected to have, so be spontaneous and embrace the adventure. One of the greatest gifts of studying or interning abroad is the perspective it gives you. You’ll return home with a new way of seeing the world—more open-minded, more adaptable, and more prepared to take on future challenges. These experiences shape you into a better global citizen, capable of working and connecting with people from all walks of life. So to all future Global Spartans, take that leap of faith. Challenge yourself, step beyond what’s comfortable, and embrace every moment. The lessons you’ll learn, the friendships you’ll make, and the experiences you’ll gain will stay with you for a lifetime.

Global Spartan Video Contest

Global Spartan Video Contest

Overview

Students are the best representatives of our study abroad & away programs. We invite all Global Spartans (current or former study abroad students) to submit a 40-80 seconds reel-style video of your time on your program showing the various components of an abroad experience including, but not limited to student life, cultural excursions, classroom, travels, and community. We particularly encourage you to show connections with the local community. Be as creative as possible to impress and inform viewers – all genre, format, style (animation, film, stop motion, photo montage, noir, romance, abstract, documentary, etc) are accepted. We are ready to be impressed by your creative summary of your amazing experiences abroad. Winners will be announced sometime in March as part of the Global Spartan Month celebrations of global education and student exchange. Videos will be featured on the Study Abroad & Away website, Abroad View blog, monthly newsletter, and our social media channels (IG, FB, YouTube, etc). Winners will receive prize money!

Rules

  • Eligibility: Open to all SJSU students or alumni who participated in any of our 400+ study abroad or away programs on the Spartans Abroad Portal.
  • Music: Any background music used must be copyright and royalty free such as those used on IG-produced reels.
  • Length: 40-80 seconds
  • Video format: Any audiovisual multimedia (e.g. video, animation, cell phone, slide show) 
  • Relevance: Must be original and relevant to the goal of the contest to inform students about your experience and created specifically for this contest.
  • Title: All videos for this contest must start with the “Global Spartan: ______ (add your unique title).
  • Description: Your video must include a short 70-character description that can be used on social media. We reserve the right to edit video descriptions for space. 
  • Ownership: All submitted entries including images, photos, captions and name, will be used by SJSU exclusively for promotional reasons. This includes, but is not limited to print, video, and digital mediums. Please note the CSU Video Image Release below. 
  • Deadline: All video entries must be submitted by March 1, 2025

How to Submit

  • All entries must be in a digital format and uploaded to a file sharing service and share it with spartansabroad@sjsu.edu AND vid.raatior@sjsu.edu
  • Send email to spartansabroad@sjsu.edu AND vid.raatior@sjsu.edu with the subject line: “Video Contest: Your Full Name” 
  • In your email, please include the following information: Your Full Name, Title for your video, a short description and link to the video file. 
  • Deadline: March 1, 2025. 

Prizes

This inaugural video contest is funded by a marketing grant from the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP)

  • First Prize: $100
  • Second Prize: $75
  • Third Prize: $50
  • Honorable Mentions (3): $25
  • ISEP Winner: $50 (additional prize for the top winner who participated on an ISEP program)

All prizes will be awarded in the form of SJSU Gold Card which can be used in all on-campus dining services, bookstores, etc. 

CSU Video Image Release

By submitting your video, you grant to the Board of Trustees of the California State University and each of its constituent campuses (including the Office of the Chancellor), and their officers, employees, agents, assigns, and volunteers (collectively “CSU”), the irrevocable and unrestricted right and permission to take, use, re-use, publish, and republish photographic portraits, video, or pictures of me or in which I may be included, in whole or in part, or composite or distorted in character or form, without restriction as to changes or alterations, in conjunction with my own or a fictitious name, or reproductions thereof in color or otherwise, made through any medium, and in any and all media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to educational uses, marketing, public relations, websites, social media, publications, promotions, broadcasts, advertisements, and posters. I also consent to the use of any published matter in conjunction therewith.

I waive any right that I may have to inspect or approve the finished product or products and the advertising copy or other matter that may be used in connection therewith or the use to which it may be applied.

I further acknowledge that I have voluntarily agreed to allow CSU to use my image without the promise of compensation or remuneration in any form whatsoever, and I waive any claim for compensation or remuneration of any kind for CSU’s use or publication of my image except for the published one-time contest prizes.

I release, discharge, and agree to hold harmless the CSU and each of its constituent campuses (including, but not limited to the Office of the Chancellor), and their officers, employees, agents, assigns, and volunteers, from any and all liability for claims by me, my family, or any third parties in connection with my participation, including without limitation, any claims ensuing from or in connection with the taking of my photograph and use or publication of my image, as well as any claims for invasion of privacy, defamation, false light, or misappropriation of name, likeness, or image.

I am at least 18 years of age and competent to agree to this release. I have read the above authorization, release, and agreement. I understand the legal consequences of its contents, meaning, and impact, and I freely accept the terms. This release shall be binding upon me and my heirs, legal representatives, and assigns.

More Information

Contact Vid Raatior (vid.raatior@sjsu.edu) or the team at spartansabroad@sjsu.edu if you have any questions. 

Application Workshop & Deadlines for Study Abroad & Away 2025-2026

Application Workshop

Have questions about the application process? Join us for an application workshop on January 27 from 12-1pm in Student Union Meeting Room 3B. RSVP here!

Upcoming Application Deadlines

SUMMER 2025

View all summer options below and join an upcoming info session to learn more on January 28 from 12-1:30pm (click here to register).

Faculty-Led Programs (FLP): DEADLINE: February 3, 2025

The deadline for Summer 2025 Faculty-Led Programs has been extended to February 3, 2025 at 11:59pm PT! We have 18 programs in 14 countries that offer a variety of courses and price points. These short-term programs enable you to travel with a group of SJSU students led by an SJSU faculty ranging in duration (2-3 weeks) and eligibility; many are open to all majors and several fulfill General Education requirements.

Summer School Abroad (SSA): DEADLINE: February 3 and March 16, 2025

We are happy to inform you that applications are now open for Summer School Abroad (SSA) programs for summer 2025! These programs enable students to take summer classes at an international university for 2-8 weeks with students from around the world, travel independently, and earn SJSU credits. All programs offer courses that fulfill GE graduation requirements. Check out options in Finland, England (Roehampton and Sussex), South Korea, and Spain! Applications are due by February 3 (for Finland and Spain) and March 16 (for England and South Korea).

Global Internships: DEADLINE: February 11 (SJSU), February or March (partner)

We are excited to launch our Global Internship programs for summer 2025! The Study Abroad & Away Office partners with organizations to offer global internship programs in multiple countries and for a variety of academic and career fields. Students receive a customized internship placement that aligns with their interests, background and skills for 6, 8, 9 or 10 weeks during the summer at a host organization abroad. Students have the option to receive academic credit (as transfer credit, pending approval from academic depts.) and most opportunities are available in English.

Students must apply through both SJSU and the partner organization. The SJSU priority application deadline is February 11 and partner deadlines will vary based on the program location and start date. Please note that some partner deadlines may be EARLIER than SJSU’s application deadline. Applicants are accepted on a rolling basis and some programs may fill up before the deadline. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to apply early. View all program options here and join one of our upcoming info sessions to learn more:

FALL 2025 or ACADEMIC YEAR 2025-2026

SJSU Exchanges: DEADLINE: February 15, 2025

We are accepting applications for fall 2025 and academic year 2025-2026 at our 40+ SJSU Exchange universities in 20+ countries. These long-term opportunities enable you to study at a partner university abroad for an entire semester or year while paying the same SJSU tuition, using your financial aid, and fulfilling your major, minor, or GE requirements.

CSU IP: DEADLINE: February 15, 2025

CSU IP provides students in the CSU system with an affordable opportunity to study abroad for a semester or year. Earn SJSU credit while studying at a host university or study center! Many programs offer opportunities to study the local language and culture. View all program options here.

ISEP: DEADLINES START: March 1, 2025

Study abroad for a semester or academic year on an ISEP program! ISEP offers study abroad opportunities at over 200 universities in 51 countries. Immerse yourself in classes at local universities while receiving SJSU credit. If you are interested in studying abroad in a location that is off the beaten path, ISEP has the program for you. View all program options here.

QUESTIONS?

Have questions or not sure where to start? Meet with an advisor or contact us at spartansabroad@sjsu.edu.

Global Internships Launched for Summer 2025

We are excited to launch our Global Internship programs for summer 2025! Are you looking for a meaningful professional development opportunity over the summer to advance your future career? Does your major have an internship requirement? Set yourself apart from other future job applicants with an internship abroad!

The Study Abroad & Away Office partners with organizations to offer global internship programs in multiple countries and for a variety of academic and career fields. Students receive a customized internship placement that aligns with their interests, background and skills for 6, 8, 9 or 10 weeks during the summer at a host organization abroad. Students have the option to receive academic credit (as transfer credit, pending approval from academic depts.) and most opportunities are available in English.

Students must apply through both SJSU and the partner organization. The SJSU application deadline is February 11 and partner deadlines will vary based on the program location and start date. Please note that some partner deadlines may be EARLIER than SJSU’s application deadline. Applicants are accepted on a rolling basis and some programs may fill up before the deadline. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to apply early.

Review the program options below to learn more about locations and career fields offered, costs, the application process and more:

Summer School Abroad (SSA) – Summer 2025 Applications Open!!

Applications for our Summer School Abroad (SSA) programs are now open for summer 2025! The SSA options enable students to participate in a summer school at a partner university. Students earn SJSU credit and fulfill major, minor, GE or elective requirements while studying at a host university with local and international students. You get to choose from a variety of housing options and costs, and enjoy the independence to travel on weekends.

Click on the links below and review all the tabs (Program Overview, Location, Academics, Financial Info, Resources) on a program page to view all details for the programs:

To apply, click on the “Apply Now” button on the Program Overview tab and complete the questionnaires. The application deadline is February 3, 2025 for Finland (JAMK) and Spain (UAB). The application deadline is March 16, 2025 for England (Roehampton or Sussex) and South Korea (SKKU).

You can view all important deadlines here, including estimated time frames for program payments. Deadlines are subject to change.

Feel free to contact the Study Abroad Advisor found on the Program Overview tab if you have any questions.

Best,

Study Abroad and Away

Global Hoop Together @ SRAC

Join us on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 @ 4 pm – 6 pm on Court 3 @ SRAC for the Global Get Together: Basketball Session. This is a chance for SJSU students who’ve studied abroad (or are interested in studying abroad!) to connect with International Exchange Students from our overseas partner universities. Stop by to shoot some hoops, have fun, and build friendships that go beyond borders! This event is open to all SJSU students, so feel free to bring a friend.

Special thanks to SAA Global Ambassadors Jeremy Quero and Kat Huang and ISSS Global Leader Nick Shein for planning this event.

RSVP here: https://bit.ly/GGTBASKETBALL

Fall 2024 Message from the Director

All of us in Study Abroad & Away (SAA) hope the fall 2024 semester is off to a great start. The team of international educators continues to develop new programs and help students find the right study abroad and away program to further their intellectual and personal growth. We are thrilled to announce the launch of a domestic exchange program through the National Student Exchange (NSE), with more details below.

We encourage all of you, students, staff, and faculty, to attend our Study Abroad Fair on Tuesday, October 8th to learn about the many global and intercultural learning opportunities available to our SJSU students. You can see more information about this event below.

We are happy to report that in summer 2024, we successfully launched 9 faculty-led programs in which faculty took over 150 students to seven countries with faculty from three colleges. We would like to recognize the faculty champions who worked tirelessly to make these opportunities possible for our students: 

  • Elizabeth Carroll (Department of Art and Art History, College of Humanities and the Arts)
  • Seung Ho Chang (Department of Kinesiology, College of Health and Human Sciences)
  • Greg Feist (Department of Psychology, College of Social Sciences)
  • Alison George (Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health and Human Sciences)
  • Tabitha Hart (Department Communication Studies, College of Social Sciences)
  • Sherri Harvey (Department of English, College of Humanities and the Arts)
  • Mary Juno (Department of Justice Studies, College of Social Sciences)
  • Marco Meniketti (Department of Anthropology, College of Social Sciences)
  • Gigi Smith (Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health and Human Sciences) 
  • Susan Trimingham (Department of Art and Art History, College of Humanities and the Arts)
  • Andrew Wood (Department Communication Studies, College of Social Sciences)

We also soft-launched our Summer School Abroad in summer 2024. This fall 2024, we will have 95 students abroad in 17 countries and are expected to have 101 students study abroad in spring 2025.

Our students continue to shine in many ways. Our Gilman scholarship recipients include: 

  • Alec Noland (Summer 2024, Scotland)
  • Kelly Ngo (Winter 2024, Thailand)
  • Sophia Garske (Fall 2023-Spring 2024, Spain)

Our Louie Barozzi scholarship recipient for 2024-25 is:

  • Henry Gibson (Fall 2024, Hong Kong)

Congratulations, we are so proud of you!

The SAA team continues to find innovative ways to promote global learning opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff successfully. To that end, we continue to grow our Global Ambassador Program. You can read more information about our amazing global ambassadors  in this blog post. We have also transitioned to  a new website for SAA. Check it out and provide us with any feedback.

We look forward to working with each and every one of you to find ways to broaden your global learning, teaching and service. Our commitment remains to promote a global ethos on campus and to move forward comprehensive internationalization as a priority for SJSU. Please do not hesitate to reach out to any of the SAA team members with any questions or ideas by contacting them directly or by emailing spartansabroad@sjsu.edu.

As you navigate the opportunities and challenges this fall 2024 semester, we wish you continued success and the best of luck. We look forward to being part of your journey!

Faculty Spotlight: Susan Trimingham

Susan Trimingham

Former Peace Corp Volunteer, international educator, artist

Susan Trimingham teaching in JapanSusan Trimingham, a lecturer in the Department of Art & Art History, leads a Faculty-Led Program (FLP) in Japan entitled, Exploring Japan through Art.” In this faculty spotlight, Susan shares her journey as a former Peace Corps volunteer in Africa and its impact on her life, her work as a visual artist and art teacher, and ways to support SJSUs internationalization goals. 

Tell us about you and your journey to SJSU? 

Susan attended four different high schools in California graduating from the University of California at Santa Cruz with a B.A. in Anthropology and a B.A. in Art through a UCSC Fellowship.  She also has an M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling and an M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction through the Arts.  Susan is a plein air painter and served as an art teacher for the Peace Corps in Sierra Leone. During her Peace Corps tour in Northern Uganda she started up a local art school and helped promote local artists. Susan also served as a consultant for an international art school in Benin, West Africa and worked as a teaching artist in a wide variety of venues, ranging from California Correctional Facilities to the Montalvo Art Center. 

What inspired you to join the FLP program?

I was encouraged to join by students in my Teaching Diversity Through Art class because of the stories I shared about living in other cultures.

What has been most rewarding & interesting about your work on campus and in Japan through your FLP?

Seeing my students grow their understanding of what culture means and how to look for the hidden values that are so important in defining cultural behavior.

How have your international experiences informed your teaching philosophy at SJSU?

 My work in education focuses on my belief that art can be a catalyst for change.  Using research based on my personal experience teaching art in the field (Sierra Leone, Uganda, Benin, Soledad Correctional Training Facility, Salinas Valley State Prison), I have documented the impact of education and experience in the arts on the development of emotional intelligence, a central organizing principle of human development.  

In 2007, as a consultant in Benin, I designed and implemented a research project, for the International Center for Art and Music at Ouidah, to determine the impact of art skills on divergent thinking and the ability to see multiple perspectives using the Torrance Test for Creative Thinking.  I have used this research and my international experiences to develop a culturally responsive curriculum that addresses diversity and global citizenship in the 21st century through art. 

More recently, my work in Taiwan for my RSCA grant provided me with alternative perspectives about teaching, as I was able to observe multiple examples of teaching art for my research.

What international-focused projects are you currently working on?

I am currently collaborating with the National Changhua University of Education in Taiwan to develop intercultural collaborations that foster the exchange of ideas and the development of a dialogue on art education with SJSU. I am also working with Kyoto Saga University of the Arts to develop stronger international connections.

What are some of your long-term and short-term goals for your work at SJSU?

I intend to expand my research on how cultural conditioning and the symbolic levels of cultural values are implicit and more observable in art education. 

Anything else that we haven’t asked that you would like to share with students and the SJSU community?

Recently, while in Taiwan after giving a talk on my Journey Around the World with Art, students commented on how “brave” I was.  My response was, and is, “It is not bravery that compels me to explore the world, it is curiosity.”