From the far left to the right, students from the University of South Florida (USF) St. Petersburg are actively involved in educational excursions to Germany, Iceland, and Italy.
The opportunity to study abroad holds the potential to profoundly transform the lives of students who are fortunate enough to partake in such experiences.
Taylor Herman, a dedicated student majoring in political science at USF St. Petersburg, expressed that her journey abroad was the most influential moment during her academic pursuits. During the previous summer, she had the chance to explore concentration camps and memorials across Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany, leading to deep reflections on the profound impact of this experience.
As the anticipation for Giving Week builds up, the St. Petersburg campus is striving to raise funds to facilitate similar immersive educational opportunities for more students. These endeavors are designed to expand students’ horizons, enrich their understanding of diverse cultures, and tackle global challenges.
Wendy Baker, the esteemed director of USF World at the St. Petersburg campus, underscored the advantages of international study programs, emphasizing the cultivation of intercultural communication skills and the promotion of independence among students.
In the past academic year, over 100 students from USF St. Petersburg participated in international study programs, with sought-after destinations including London, Florence, and Paris.
These enriching experiences not only foster cultural sensitivity in an interconnected world but also provide a well-structured platform for students to venture into new realms, forge meaningful relationships, and earn academic accolades.
Kelsey Sherman, reflecting on her educational voyage in Iceland, lauded the transformative influence of the journey, especially in exploring sustainable energy technologies.
The financial constraints often act as a significant barrier to studying abroad, with an average semester overseas costing approximately $11,250, excluding tuition and airfare.
Donations made during Giving Week will directly assist students by covering expenses related to tuition, travel, and accommodation, enabling them to embark on life-altering escapades that might otherwise be financially out of reach.
Thomas Nicholls shared his enriching experience of studying in Exeter, highlighting the opportunities to immerse in English culture and engage with a diverse international community.
You are invited to join the compassionate donors during the Giving Week campaign from April 8-12 to contribute to the newly established study abroad scholarship fund at USF St. Petersburg. The generous contributions, including a matching donation from Wendy Baker, her spouse Jason Hughes, and their software development company, will further amplify the impact of the fund.
Explore more about Giving Week, a platform where the USF community collaborates to propel student success, faculty research, and community enrichment initiatives.