Albany State University students learning globally

ALBANY — Albany State University students are going global this summer through study-abroad opportunities offered by the ASU Office of Global Programs. Thirty-one ASU students are encountering international experiences in some of the world’s most vibrant countries.

Throughout the semester, students and faculty members have blogged about their travel experiences.

The Trinidad and Tobago study-abroad opportunity is led by Irma J. Gibson, an associate professor in the ASU Department of Social Work. The Belize study-abroad program is led by Kathaleena Edward Monds, a professor of information systems in the College of Business and co-director of the Center for Economic Education/Small and Minority Entrepreneurship.

Global service learning experiences, cultural lectures by partner university professors and a variety of tours, social outings and excursions are integrated into the curriculum to ensure students’ academic success.

Raven Smith, an ASU graduate student, sent an account recently of her trip to Trinidad and Tobago:

“I remember when Dr. Gibson first mentioned the study-abroad class, I thought to myself, ‘I have to go on this trip,’” Smith wrote on the blog. “Two semesters later, I am studying abroad in a different country. Upon my arrival, I expected to see beautiful clear blue-water beaches. However, that was not the case. As soon as we stepped outside of the airport, we were greeted by beautiful green mountains.

“I am grateful for this opportunity, and I am thankful for having the chance to serve at St. Dominic’s Children’s Home and St. Jude’s School for girls. These past 30 days really made me realize how blessed I am and how I should start appreciating the things I have. We should be thankful more and complain less.”

Undergrad social work student Shamicah Tardy, who is also in Trinidad and Tobago, offered comments similar to her classmate’s:

“My goal was to study abroad in Trinidad and Tobago this summer. I feel extremely favored, realizing God had taken me to a place I wished,” Tardy wrote. “Thirty days in Trinidad and Tobago have been a temporary home for me. Although I miss my family, this place has exceeded my expectations.

“The people have been warm and inviting. My main fear was boarding the plane not once, but twice.”

Graduate student Brianna Wright, who is majoring in social work, also made the trip to Trinidad and Tobago:

“I can’t help but reflect on all of the wonderful experiences I’ve had since first stepping foot on the island,” Wright wrote. “Growing up, I was sheltered and developed a ‘small city mindset.’ I must say this trip truly helped me put my fears aside and take a big risk for my future.

“I believe that studying abroad is an opportunity that everyone should do. I’m very blessed to have embarked upon this journey, and I would recommend it to anyone who needs that extra push with getting out of their comfort zone and following their dreams.”

Monds added that the trip also provides participating students with a bonding experience.

“It took more than 2,400 miles for three Albany girls to form a bond that did not take place until they crossed borders,” Monds wrote. “What local rivals Sheba Jackson, Tarria Simmons and Chelissa Sumbry could not create in rural Georgia, the boundaries of globalization have brought together.”