As our spring semester draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the vibrant tapestry of programs and events that enriched our International Division. From student activities to community outreach, these events fostered global understanding and connection. Check out some of our favorite moments!
In January, International Student Services welcomed more than 400 new students to campus at the International Student Welcome and Information Fair. This fair provided important information about academic resources, student organizations, campus identity, and cultural centers while facilitating connections among international students.
The IAP and the CALS Study Abroad Office Exchange Team held their Exchange Student Orientation for students arriving to start the spring semester at UW. The first part of the orientation was virtual, but given the weather that day (high of 8 degrees and a wind chill of 16 below zero), they opted to host a social event in the Resource Center instead of the usual campus walk. The students enjoyed games, puzzles, and each other’s company!
Chancellor Mnookin, Dean Vavrus, and other colleagues gathered in February to sign tiles that will be used in the restoration of the Thai Pavilion at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. This collaborative effort underscores the enduring international friendship between the Thai government, the WAA-Thailand Chapter, and UW–Madison. The Thai Pavilion, a cherished gift from Thailand, serves as a prominent symbol of these cross-cultural ties.
In February, UW–Madison was recognized as one of the universities with the highest number of students selected for the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Many Fulbright scholars have gone on to become government leaders, Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, MacArthur Fellows, and more. Fourteen of our Badgers secured awards for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Leah Schneck, majoring in political science, economics, and data science, participated in the “Wisconsin in Washington” study abroad program. Check out photos from her weeklong Instagram takeover.
Danish Ambassador to the U.S Jesper Møller Sørensen visited campus and met with students to discuss sustainability and international politics. The university has long ties to Denmark and one of the strongest U.S. programs in Danish studies.
Eliana Sauer, majoring in international studies and environmental studies, participated in the “DIS Stockholm” study abroad program in Sweden. Check out photos from her weeklong Instagram takeover.
Emma Tevogt, majoring in neurobiology and Spanish, participated in the “WIP Madrid” study abroad program in Spain. Check out photos from her weeklong Instagram takeover.
UW–Madison continues its legacy of service! TThe university ranked #1 in the Peace Corps’ list of universities producing volunteers for 2023. Overall, a whopping 2,766 Badgers have served as Peace Corps volunteers, making UW–Madison the #2 all-time producer of volunteers nationwide.
“The University of Wisconsin–Madison is proud of our alumni who are serving as volunteers worldwide. Their drive to create global connections and use their knowledge and skills to partner with communities makes a profound difference in the world,” said Frances Vavrus, International Division vice provost and dean.
Sami Stidham, a journalism student who participated on the IES Barcelona program and won best film at the IES Study Abroad Film Festival this past fall, is a current finalist in the GoAbroad Innovation Awards Academy for best student video. The film festival celebrates student filmmakers who showcase the transformative experience of studying abroad.
“Because I won, UW–Madison is receiving a $5,000 scholarship from IES Abroad to help other Badgers study abroad. I had such an incredible experience, so knowing that I’m helping another student do the same is really cool,” said Stidham.
A big thank you to Provost Isbell for visiting the International Division! We were thrilled to showcase the global impact of our programs and the incredible work of our students, faculty, and staff in furthering UW–Madison’s international reputation.
As a part of UW–Madison’s 175th Anniversary Community Open House this past April, the African Studies Program hosted a Children’s African Story Hour (CASH). Highlighting diverse cultures and languages, the event showcased award-winning children’s literature alongside engaging activities and African cuisine. This event exemplifies the program’s ongoing mission to connect the community with Africa through storytelling.
“One of the parents told me that she didn’t know what to expect because she had never heard of CASH. And as she walked in, it felt like home. Stories like that bring chills,” said Olayinka Olagbegi-Adegbite, the assistant director of the African Studies Program.
In April, hundreds of local students and teachers gathered at the Barrymore Theatre for World Cinema Day. Hosted by the Wisconsin International Resource Consortium (WIRC) and the Wisconsin Film Festival, students and teachers enjoyed a free screening of the Dutch film “Totem.” This heartwarming story explored themes of immigration and cultural heritage, resonating with the audience and sparking a lively panel discussion with professors on Senegalese culture, immigration experiences, and the film’s hopeful message.
This semester, a new faculty-led study abroad program was launched. UW Crossroads of Culture and Health in New Zealand focuses on specific differences in the physiology of physical activity among New Zealanders. With an emphasis on the physiology of exercise responses, this program is open to students of all majors, but especially those particularly interested in the physiology of health.
The Wisconsin in Washington (WiW) program hosted campus advisors from six departments this spring. These advisors gained firsthand experience with the program’s structure, which combines academic coursework with professional internships, a high-impact practice for student learning. The weeklong visit included tours of D.C. organizations, classroom observations, and cultural immersion.
Students and faculty attended a pre-departure dinner as part of the UW Global Gateway Initiative. UW Global Gateway Summer programs and fellowships are provided in partnership with the Office of Student Financial Aid and IRIS to increase access to study abroad and away experiences.
This semester, 15 UW–Madison students studied abroad through UW Signature Internships. From Finland to Kenya to South Korea, these students put their classroom knowledge to the test, developing cross-cultural skills and forging connections with professionals around the world. Notably, UW–Madison ranks #12 nationally for total students studying abroad, demonstrating its commitment to global learning.