A photo of a yellow ent with black letters that reads \"EDUCATION ABROAD\" on the front and \"www.global.vcu.edu\" on the side. The top of the tent has black text that reads \"VCU.\" Under the tent is a table with a black table cloth that says \"VCU\" in yellow letters on the front. A woman behind the table is talking to a student on the other side. There are two other student's standing to the right of the tent, and a man standing to the left of the tent.
The annual Global Learning Fair features two primary events – the International Student Welcome and the Study Abroad Fair – that will be held at the Commons Plaza. (Photo courtesy of the Global Education Office)

Sept. 18, 2024

Global Learning Fair this month highlights both directions of international education at VCU

Sponsored by the Global Education Office, the Sept. 23-25 program features geographic diversity on campus and study abroad opportunities for students.

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By Amelia Heymann

Virginia Commonwealth University’s Global Education Office will hold its annual Global Learning Fair from Sept. 23-25, shining a spotlight on international students and opportunities to study abroad.

“These are the types of activities that not only support student success, but they also help internationalize VCU’s campus,” said Jill Blondin, Ph.D., associate vice provost for global initiatives.

The two primary events – the International Student Welcome and the Study Abroad Fair – will be held at the Commons Plaza. Stephanie Tignor, director of global learning, said they reflect how international education is a two-way commitment at VCU – serving foreign students who expand their knowledge at VCU as well as American students who can study overseas through VCU partnerships.

“Whether it’s connecting with new international peers, discovering study abroad opportunities or exploring the Peace Corps Prep certificate program, VCU Global Learning is here to support every student’s global journey here at VCU,” Tignor said.

Here are details on the fair’s two primary events:

International Student Welcome

Sept. 23, 4 to 6 p.m., Commons Plaza

The gathering is a chance to welcome VCU’s newest cohort of international students to campus. There will be information about student organizations and campus partners and a meet-and-greet with Rodney the Ram. All VCU community members are invited, and international students are encouraged to bring their families. Register here.

Study Abroad Fair

Sept. 24, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Commons Plaza

For students interested in studying abroad, this event is an opportunity to meet representatives from program providers and partners, talk to students who have studied abroad and connect with VCU’s Education Abroad staff. Register here.

In addition to the two large events, the GEO will host 10 additional in-person and virtual sessions featuring representatives from various VCU partner institutions and providers about global education opportunities. Details and registration are available here.

For more about VCU’s study abroad and global education opportunities, visit global.vcu.edu.