Efforts to increase the diversity of University students have prompted a focus on inclusion initiatives. One of these initiatives is the Diversity Abroad at LSU program, which encourages underrepresented students to travel and take classes relevant to their area of study in different parts of the world. Historically, minority students have been unlikely to participate in these types of programs, and the Office of Diversity has partnered with Academic Programs Abroad to change that.
The LSU Diversity Abroad Initiative hosted former U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield last week. She shared her experiences and answered students’ questions. Diversity Abroad will be hosting other events like this to publicize their cause throughout the school year.
Mass communication senior Tra’Vecia McGee spoke very highly of her experience with the Media & Politics in Europe program, which included four weeks of traveling to London, Normandy, Paris, Strasbourg, Berlin and Prague while completing two courses. She emphasized that studying abroad has more to do with experiences than academics.
“You get to know yourself more,” McGee said. “Studying abroad definitely takes you out of your comfort zone.”
There are many resources, scholarships and opportunities for financial aid to help students study abroad because one of the major goals of the initiative is to encourage students to travel who might not otherwise have the opportunity. While the program is essentially open to everyone, it focuses on helping those from different backgrounds or who face obstacles.
“It’s for all students, but I think it specializes to help with those who have difficulties or struggles trying to go abroad, or those who may not see themselves doing that because they can’t afford it, because their families haven’t done it or maybe they’re first generation. It’s to implement diversity.” McGee said. “If the same people are seeing the same things, then how can things change?”
Diversity Abroad offers scholarships within specific colleges as well as scholarships that are open to everyone. They also provide a variety of options including year-long, semester long, summer and intersession programs.
Vice Provost of Diversity Dr. Dereck Rovaris said one of his biggest regrets as an undergraduate was not studying abroad.
“I probably would not have been able to afford it then, but right now, there are scholarships and there are funds available to help just about anyone be able to participate in study abroad,” Rovaris said. “It is a humongous advantage.”
There will be an Academic Programs Abroad fair in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 2 and 3.