International Education Week (IEW) — celebrated this year from November 17–21 — arrives in a season of reflection and gratitude.
November invites us to slow down, to notice the beauty in change, and to honor the many celebrations taking place around the world. For us at University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), a nonprofit study abroad provider for more than 40 years, this moment carries special meaning.
We are deeply grateful to our students who believe in us and trust us with their dreams; to our institutional partners who continue to champion global learning; and to the opportunity to continue offering international education that is accessible, affordable, and truly transformative.
As we face new challenges in higher and international education — nationally and globally — we remain steadfast in our mission to provide as many opportunities as we can to students seeking study abroad experiences.
IEW reminds us that we’re part of something larger — a global community built on empathy, collaboration, and mutual respect. It reminds us that experiences gained abroad can change a person’s life, leading to more positive personal, community, and global outcomes.
“The work we do in international education truly makes a difference. We have all been impacted and changed by our own international experiences and encourage students to pursue their own experiences abroad. We do this because we know the positive results far outweigh the challenges and obstacles they may encounter along the way. In fact, facing and overcoming obstacles makes it all the more worth it. The view at the top makes climbing the mountain worth it every time.” — Alyssa Nota, Ph.D., USAC CEO & President, says.
Each student’s journey abroad not only inspires and changes their life but also often sparks curiosity among those around them. They return eager to share what they did, who they met, what they learned, and that trickles into their families, social groups, and communities. Their experiences show us the beauty of human connection and the joy of discovering, while in an unfamiliar place that soon becomes their home.
This week, we invite you to imagine a more connected, compassionate world, and explore what might exist if you push yourself out of your comfort zone. Join us in celebrating international education by checking out some of our most inspiring and meaningful stories this year. Happy IEW!
“My study abroad experience had a profound impact on my career outlook. Before Japan, I knew I wanted to work in education or psychology, but I wasn’t sure how to combine those interests in a global context.
— Robert Escobar, a USAC Nagasaki alumnus, “Teaching English after my Nagasaki study abroad”
In Japan, however, I saw firsthand the importance of international exchange in education. Whether it was helping classmates understand American slang, sharing holiday traditions with Japanese friends, or observing English lessons in local schools, I realized how powerful language can be as a bridge between cultures. I want to continue to make meaningful contributions to its goal of fostering mutual understanding.”
“One day, walking through the city in her school uniform with a group of young students, Jessica came face-to-face with a giant gold Buddha — and was struck to tears. I can’t put my finger on that feeling or that thought or what exactly happened in that moment, but I felt at home.”
— Jessica Davis, USAC Chiang Mai, Thailand alumna, “Thai medicine courses inspires a business venture”
“I slowly started to open up to my roommates about what I had been going through. This was the turning point for me. Finally letting my feelings show was huge, and it was what I needed to do from the start. Although I was scared and nervous, they held my hand along the way and helped me stand up. Because of their kindness and care, it helped me realize that there were also 24 other students in my program who were not only struggling with moving abroad, but who were also facing similar, unspoken challenges. Finding these similarities and knowing I was not alone made it so much easier for me to be me.”
— Sophia Patricia Calculli DeYoung, USAC Verona, Italy, “Navigating hardships and finding unconditional support abroad”
Learn more about USAC and its programs, discounts, scholarships, and more at usac.edu.
