Graduate Students

Read what college of education students had to say about their study abroad experiences.

Thomas Carrington

I learned how to adapt to new surroundings, become independent, work in teams with people you just met, be resilient, understanding and respectful of local customs and culture, and learned I have a desire to see the world and make the world a better place.

Jasmine Wilson

This experience gave me a chance to reflect on myself as a future educator by finding ways to support ELL as well as working on other weaknesses in my current practice that can be improved.

Briana Barrett

I feel more prepared for my future career because I have a stronger perspective of how counseling and mental health is viewed outside of the United States than before I left for China.

Claudia Rodriguez

I believe that there’s a lot to learn from other countries and their education systems and bring that back to improve what we are doing in the United States.

Nada Wafa

Embrace all the opportunities and experiences! Take the time to learn about the country and people. Build connections and get to know the locals!

Nina Schoonover

I chose to study abroad to connect with researchers conducting work in my field of study around the world. As well, travel brings into perspective our own lives back home which opens the door for further inquiry.

Five ways to engage globally as a graduate student

1. Study or improve your proficiency in a language other than your own

Learning a language opens the door to learning about a culture. It increases your cross-cultural awareness and allows you to connect with people from all over the world.

Start learning a new language or improve your proficiency in one that you have tried learning before. You can study a portfolio of languages through the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, you may try other ways to learn at home or in the greater Raleigh area. Check out the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) and other opportunities for U.S. College and University Students through the Department of State.

2. Connect with the international community at NC State and in the greater Raleigh area

Engaging with the international community can expand your knowledge and awareness about the world around us. You can build cross-cultural friendships and professional networks while learning about different cultures and countries.

Consider attending the English Conversation Club or joining one of the many Global & Cultural student organizations. Search for globally related groups and events on meetup.com for opportunities in the greater Raleigh area.

3. Study abroad or take a course that incorporates global learning

Studying abroad gives you the chance to see the current issues in education that you may be learning in class or addressing in research/practice from a different perspective and inspires you to offer more creative solutions.

College of Education Global Programs offers education-specific study abroad programs in China, Mexico and Kenya. Speak to your academic advisor early about your interest so that you can save the appropriate course requirement to take abroad. Look out for courses that incorporate COIL into your courses to engage with overseas students and partners in a virtual setting.

4. Conduct research abroad

Conducting research abroad can help you understand your research topic in different educational contexts. Consider the research grants available through DAAD German Academic Exchange Service. Speak to your academic advisor about opportunities to incorporate international graduate research into your degree plan.

5. Present at an international conference

The Global Graduate Presenter Award and the International Travel Award through the Graduate School are two funding opportunities to present at an International Conference. Your department may also have additional funds that might supplement your presenting efforts. Review other Graduate School resources and University Fellowship Office resources for other global-related fellowships and funded opportunities.