Students who have participated in Florida A&M University’s study abroad program, exploring regions such as Asia and France, have had enriching experiences.
The opportunity to study abroad offers students a chance to immerse themselves in different cultures and broaden their educational horizons. At FAMU, individuals like Braxton McMillon and Morgan Muse advocate for the transformative impact of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing international experiences.
McMillon, a senior business administration student, spent six months studying at Universidad Del Norte in Barranquilla, Colombia. His time abroad shed light on the disparities in international educational opportunities, with only 5.3% of Black college students engaging in such programs compared to 68.6% of Caucasian students, as reported by NAFSA.org.
Reflecting on his experience, McMillon emphasized the importance of increasing diversity in global academic settings. He noted how being the sole FAMU and HBCU representative in his program highlighted the need for more minority participation in international initiatives.
For McMillon, the immersion in a Spanish-speaking environment not only enhanced his language skills but also broadened his cultural awareness. Interacting with peers from various countries like France, Italy, and Brazil exposed him to a diverse range of perspectives and traditions, shaping his future aspirations.
Similarly, Muse, a fifth-year professional MBA candidate with a minor in computer science, interned at Merck Biopharma in Tokyo, Japan. Her experience in a unique market setting provided valuable insights into global business practices, particularly in email campaign services.
While both students spoke highly of their overseas experiences, they acknowledged the financial challenges associated with studying abroad. Muse highlighted the importance of exploring additional funding options to alleviate the financial burden on students.
McMillon echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for more support and resources from the Education Abroad department at FAMU. Motivated by his own journey, he took proactive steps to empower fellow students by launching initiatives like the ‘BNternational’ symposium, aimed at providing guidance and support for those interested in pursuing international opportunities.
As the upcoming Study Abroad Fair approaches on Wednesday, Feb. 28, in the Grand Ballroom, students are encouraged to explore the diverse range of study abroad possibilities available to them. For more information, visit the official event page.