Gonzaga University was positioned 11th nationwide for “Undergraduate Study Abroad participation among doctoral colleges,” according to a 2023 report by the Institute of International Education Open Doors. This acknowledgment highlights GU’s 43.3% student engagement rate in study abroad programs.
The Office of Study Abroad at GU oversees these international initiatives, with Moira Rogers, the study abroad director, emphasizing the ongoing drive to broaden opportunities, especially outside the Eurocentric scope.
Rogers expressed, “We’re dedicated to diversifying the demographics of study abroad participants — including faculty, specialized programs, and destination choices. Our current focus is quite Eurocentric, so we aim to introduce more programs in regions like Africa and Latin America.”
The success of these programs is attributed to the quality of education, robust student support, and the Study Abroad office’s efficient application and visa processes.
While Florence stands out as the most popular program due to its status as GU’s secondary campus, Rogers attributes its success to both its popularity and the office’s commitment to offering courses that align with students’ degree requirements.
Apart from the Florence programs, faculty-led initiatives draw approximately 300 students annually, offering GU core credits. Rogers highlighted the crucial role of faculty engagement in the program’s achievements.
Aaron Crandall, an assistant professor of computer science, spearheaded a faculty-led program in Berlin, Germany, in the summer of 2023 and is planning another for 2025. The course focused on information warfare, with Crandall and 11 students exploring historical sites such as the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, the German Spy Museum, and a day trip to Potsdam.
Crandall commended the university’s substantial investment in establishing institutional infrastructure for global education, emphasizing the significance of hands-on learning experiences.
Reflecting on his personal affinity for Germany and the course content on information warfare, Crandall underscored the intertwined history of Germany and computing, emphasizing the importance of exploring diverse perspectives.
Having participated in a high school exchange program in Germany, Crandall emphasized how such experiences can profoundly impact one’s worldview, encouraging all students to seize study abroad opportunities for personal growth and transformation.