Changing Lives Through Education Abroad

Supporting students as they prepare for study abroad includes navigating financial considerations. This week, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Ebony Majeed, Director of International Students, Scholars and Programs at Hampton University, for a discussion of the complexities and opportunities of funding study abroad in 2024. Hear Ebony’s pro-tips for outreach strategies related to diverse communities, partnering with financial aid and scholarship offices, and debunking common misconceptions. This dialogue also includes a look at identity and global study through an HBCU lens, with takeaways for all listeners to advance access on their campus.

International educators have some of the most meaningful and uplifting jobs, yet burnout exists in our field as it does anywhere. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Caylie Middleton, Assistant Director of Education Abroad at the University of Vermont, for a thoughtful dialogue about taking care of ourselves and our communities. Learn Caylie’s pro-tips to manage well, advance change despite obstacles, and appreciate how our jobs provide us with a knowledge set that we can use for a thriving and purposeful career.

In a landscape where we already recognize study abroad as a high impact practice, First Year Abroad Programs are emergent as an example of how intentional initiatives can be pivotal in an institutions’ global learning goals for students. Join host Zac Macinnes for a conversation with Dr. Jon Stauff, Assistant Vice President for International Affairs at South Dakota State University, and Dr. Jill Blondin, Associate Vice Provost for Global Initiatives at Virginia Commonwealth University, centered around the impacts of first year abroad programming on enrollment in relevant coursework, leadership development, and the growth of culturally agile individuals poised to affect change in their future endeavors.

As an early to mid-career professional in international education, it’s essential to effectively leverage your experiences to develop leadership skills and create avenues for growth. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Grace Twardy, Senior Manager of University Relations and Program Development at Boston University, for a conversation about lifelong learning and how to advance your career. Hear Grace’s pro tips to combat imposter syndrome, build community, and actively seek opportunities to level up. You do not want to miss this episode!

When we think about meeting the needs of today’s students, accessibility is front of mind. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Sara Easler, Ph.D., Assistant Dean of International Programs & Partnerships in the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, for a critical conversation centered on supporting students with disabilities who seek to study abroad. We’ll touch on accommodations, disclosure, visible vs. invisible needs, and our responsibilities to ensure that our programs are within reach of all students. Tune in to learn more about resources you can use right away to champion access on your campus.

Join host Zac Macinnes and guest Larry Pickener, Director of Global Education at Boston College, for an insightful conversation on leadership as it looks in 2024. This thoughtful dialogue explores how we can successfully navigate structural changes, be strategic about interpersonal and goal-oriented growth, and inspire and uplift our teams. We’ll also touch on generational influences as Larry shares pro tips for new managers.  

Reaching our students is an ever-moving target. This week Zac Macinnes sits down with Snow White, Senior Regional Director at WorldStrides, for a fun and enlightening conversation about effectively connecting with Gen Z. Join us to learn more about exploring trends, maximizing your resources, and telling stories effectively to best resonate with the students of today. You do not want to miss this episode!

When we consider the student pathway to study abroad, funding is often uniquely pivotal in that journey. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Angela Shaffer, Executive Director of the Fund for Education Abroad, to unpack how this fully philanthropic and independent organization removes financial barriers for students. This thoughtful dialogue also touches on thinking holistically about student needs, implementing inclusive best practices, and how the field is evolving in terms of closing the access gap.

This week, Jeffrey Ayres Ph.D., Director of the Center for Global Engagement and Senior International Officer at Saint Michael’s College, joins host Zac Macinnes for a conversation centered on the importance of internships abroad. This episode will highlight the transformative power of combining academic pursuits with a globally oriented, career enhancing program. In addition to student stories and successes, Jeff shares how securing funding can pave the way for these types of experiences and insights on geographic trends.

Research can enhance an experience abroad and provide new lenses for academic and professional exploration. Join Zac Macinnes for a thoughtful conversation with Andrew Wingfield, Director of Global Engagement in the College of Engineering & Applied Science at the University of Colorado Boulder, centered on providing avenues for student learning beyond traditional study abroad, easing onramps for participation and bridging gaps between diverse constituencies and systems.