Fairfield University students who embark on study abroad programs undergo a profound transformation, gaining invaluable perspectives and encountering unique experiences. The opportunity to study in a foreign country is life-changing, as it results in personal and academic growth. Upon their return to campus, many students have eagerly volunteered to promote study abroad across campus. They share their experiences with their peers in a variety of ways, providing knowledge and information that proves to be extremely helpful for those thinking about their own study abroad travels. Throughout the Fall semester, Global Fairfield has had several study abroad alumni who have remained actively engaged in recruiting other Stags to study abroad. Below is an example of activities these recent alumni took part in.
Annual Study Abroad Fair: Towards the beginning of every fall semester, Global Fairfield hosts an annual study abroad fair that features representatives from diverse programs all over the world. Students have the opportunity to learn more about their study abroad options firsthand by walking to different tables and speaking to advisors face-to-face. In addition, former study abroad returnees also volunteered to talk to students about their recent study abroad experiences. The most recent Study Abroad fair highlighted programs from Italy, Ireland, England, Australia, Greece, and beyond, offering students an overview of the global academic opportunities available to them.
AIFS Pizza Night: Courtesy of Global Fairfield’s Partner AIFS, two Fairfield students who recently attended an AIFS program, hosted a peer advising night for students, featuring Colony Grill pizza. This unique event allowed prospective study abroad students to ask their peers questions about applying, choosing coursework, and preparing for their study abroad experience.
Ice Cream Social: At the beginning of the semester, an Ice Cream Social served as a gathering point for prospective study abroad students. Senior Madison Gioffreda shared the highs and lows of her study abroad experience in Maastricht and provided comforting knowledge through her personal account. Participants also had the opportunity to socialize with other students traveling on the same program.
Study Abroad Student Panel: Study abroad alumni participated in a student panel, with the goal to enlighten students about the study abroad options available. Global Fairfield tries to offer at least one panel presentation a year because once students hear first-hand from peers about their study abroad experiences, the majority feel more at ease with their contemplations regarding studying abroad and typically move forward with the application.
Student Ambassador Video Interviews: Many study abroad student alumni have taken the opportunity to become student ambassadors for Global Fairfield. Their contributions include spotlights on our Instagram platform, contributions to our digital portfolio through personal written accounts, and video interviews that vividly capture the essence of their unique study abroad experiences. This fall we were able to capture three students experience on video. These videos will be used on our social platforms and websites to increase study abroad participation across campus.
In essence, the transformative nature of studying abroad resonates so much with students that they are compelled to share their experiences, creating a culture of inspiration among their peers to pursue their own study abroad endeavors. It’s the best form of marketing Global Fairfield could ask for!
