Supporting First-Generation Students in Education Abroad: Strategies for Success

Thursday, November 14, 2024

2:30 PM – 3:20 PM EST

Location: Commonwealth 3

Chair and Presenter(s)

Katie Sensabaugh, MPhil (she/her/hers)

Director, Study Abroad
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, Virginia

Presenter(s)

Sarah Carrier (she/her/hers)

Associate Director of Global Learning
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia

Presentation Description: Within our universities and organizations, we’re always looking to improve our education abroad programming to be more innovative and inclusive in an endeavor to provide opportunities to first-generation students and students with high financial need. While we have much to learn from our own trial and error, as a community of international educators, we are able to share our experiences and learn from each other to enhance our collective work. This session will showcase lessons learned and share best practices to continue building strategies for success.
Learning Objectives:
Examine best practices, strategies, and ideas to create more accessible program options for first-generation students and students with high financial need
Discover ways to better support students as they encounter potential financial, academic, or identity struggles while preparing to study abroad
Identify key on- and off-campus stakeholders who can partner with education abroad offices to foster student success