WORLD @ Stetson University – The David and Leighan Rinker Center for International Learning

July 9, 2026July 10, 2026

Paula Hentz to Depart Stetson

It is with mixed emotions and great admiration for her leadership that I announce that Paula Hentz, Stetson’s Senior International Officer (SIO) and Director of Global Initiatives, will be departing her role on July 9, having accepted a leadership opportunity at another university.

Paula started her higher education career at Stetson 14 years ago and has been responsible for operationalizing the University’s efforts to make intercultural learning vital to the Stetson experience. A consummate professional, Paula has competently and innovatively led Stetson to the world and brought the world to Stetson.

What Paula has collaboratively established to transform our engagement with the broader global community is truly extraordinary! Equally impressive is her work in expanding Stetson’s global learning footprint on almost every continent through the cultivation of international partnerships and diplomacy. Her portfolio runs the gamut from risk assessment and mitigation to federal compliance to policy development.

Under Paula’s leadership of WORLD: the David and Leighan Rinker Center for International Learning, collaborative fundraising to support student and faculty professional development has occurred to the tune of over $8 million. More recently, a collaboration between Stetson and Bethune -Cookman University successfully resulted in a $250,000 CIEE 2024 Global Sustainability Challenge Grant Award to provide scholarships for students from both institutions to study abroad in order to more effectively communicate about global climate change to diverse communities around the world.

During her tenure, support for international students flourished. In fact, international student retention increased from 75% in 2013 to 88% in 2023, approximately 10 percentage points above domestic student retention. WORLD’s support of visiting international scholars also included inviting Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistants each year to assist with the teaching of foreign languages such as Portuguese and Arabic.

Since her onboarding in 2012, study abroad participation has increased by 51%, and applications for study abroad scholarships have more than tripled. Then, in 2024, WORLD launched the Florida Lessons from Abroad Conference, a student-led event for both domestic and international students from across the state to present reflections on the impact of studying in a different country. Plus, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Paula’s troubleshooting skillset was particularly instrumental in ensuring study abroad student and faculty safety and in ensuring that international students continued to thrive (92% of international students returned in fall 2020).

In addition, WORLD has held responsibility for the Stetson’s Peace Corps Prep program, a nationally recognized certificate program that prepares students for careers in public service and federal employment through an intentional combination of academic coursework, leadership, volunteerism, intercultural competence and career readiness.

During Paula’s tenure, WORLD has brought national attention to Stetson through invited academic presentations and peer-reviewed publications, as well as innovative programs such as the Scotland Study Abroad Collaborative with Utah Valley University, Jacksonville University, and the University of the Highlands & Islands in Inverness, Scotland; Global Gateways, where first-year students spend a semester abroad in Dublin, Ireland; the Rinker Global Scholars Program, a sophomore level course where a student cohort is selected in their first semester to receive a competitive scholarship to participate the spring semester of their sophomore year in a four-credit interdisciplinary course that relates to the country where they will travel during Spring Break; and the International Faculty Development Seminar, a faculty study abroad program designed to help instructors learn best practices in developing and leading their own study abroad programs.

Each of these innovations reflects Paula’s deep commitment to inclusion with a strategic focus on ensuring global participation by students, faculty, and in disciplines and at locations where Stetson did not ordinarily engage.

I will miss her constant creativity, insatiable collaboration, optimism, intelligence, initiative, grace and inclusivity. As such, my respect and esteem for Paula has grown deeper and more substantive throughout the years.

Paula recently noted the following, “After 14 years at Stetson, this is a bittersweet transition. While I am excited for a new opportunity and the chance to continue growing professionally, I will miss the Stetson community so much. I have loved my time here, primarily because of how many wonderful people I’ve been able to work alongside. This has been an important chapter in both my professional and personal life, and one that I will always remember positively because of the people who made it so special. Moving forward, I know that WORLD will be in great hands … ”

We will soon communicate a transition plan.

In the meantime, please join the Office of Faculty Engagement in extending our best wishes to Paula at [email protected] as she embarks on this exciting next chapter of her career and spreads Stetson excellence elsewhere.

For questions about study abroad, please contact Melanie Smith at [email protected]. For questions related to international students and scholars or immigration policies, please contact Tristan Laner at [email protected]. If you are unsure of whom to contact, start with Liz Lew at [email protected], who will be happy to help direct your message to the appropriate individual at WORLD. General inquiries can also be sent to [email protected].

Rosalie Richards, Ph.D.

Associate Provost for Faculty Development, Professor of Chemistry and Education, Office of Faculty Engagement

April 13, 2025April 14, 2025

Study Abroad Photo Contest 2025

Thank you to all the students who submitted pictures for WORLD’s 2025 Study Abroad/Study Away Photo Contest! WORLD staff deliberated and picked our favorites. Now we need your help to determine the winner!

Please take a look at the photos below and then cast your vote for your favorite three photos by noon on Friday, April 25!

**A Sun Baked Memory** by Abi Edds (Rome, Italy)

**Untitled** by Alicia Farrer (Innsbruck, Austria)

**Greek Fishing** by Ana Gonzalez-Hernandez (Athens, Greece)

**Blending with the Bushes** by Brady Stolz (Venice, Italy)

**Walking through Burano** by Brady Stolz (Venice, Italy)

Canal by Candela Tourne Munoz (Venice, Italy)

**Rialto** by Candela Tourne Munoz (Venice, Italy)

**Devonshire Landscape** by Leo Kwetkus (Devon, United Kingdom)

**Palais Garnier** by Lillian Bruns (Paris, France)

**Swarovski Crystal World** by Madelyn Emmons (Wattens, Austria)

**Eternal Majesty** by Mary DeNote (Rome, Italy)

**Italian Delight** by Mary DeNote (Rome, Italy)

**Butterfly in the Night** by Natalie Al-Shihabi (Pocosol, Costa Rica)

**Untitled** by Nicholas Mauck (Hacienda Baru, Costa Rica)

**Untitled #2** by Nicholas Mauck (Hacienda Baru, Costa Rica)

**All This Hiking and We Didn’t Fall** by Nicole Membiela (Cuetzalan, Mexico)

**Untitled #3** by Nurdaulet Myrzabekov (Great Smoky Mountains, USA)

**Untitled #4** by Nurdaulet Myrzabekov (Great Smoky Mountains, USA)

**Beautiful Canal** by Rhainay Williamson (Bologna, Italy)

**Top of Verona** by Rhainay Williamson (Verona, Italy)

**Positano** by Sara Hassler (Positano, Italy)

**Villa Adriana** by Sara Hassler (Rome, Italy)

**Rue du Dragon** by Sophia Guiloff (Paris, France)

**Untitled** byTaylor Fuqua (Geneva, Switzerland)

**Odeon of Herodes Atticus** by Victoria Antonini (Athens, Greece)

**Donkeys by the Harbor** by by Victoria Antonini (Athens, Greece)

**Scaling Heights** by Wenxena Spencer (Cassis, France)

**La Jolie Aix a Nuit** by Wenxena Spencer (Aix-en-Provence, France)

**Keel-Billed Toucan** by Zoe Stuckwisch (Fortuna, Costa Rica)

**Cape Fur Seals** by Zoe Stuckwisch (Plettenberg, South Africa)

December 13, 2024July 10, 2026

Fulbright Scholar Interview: Alaa Zaid

Journey to becoming a Fulbright Scholar

by: Damaris Ramirez-Espinal and Philip De-Graft

Philip De-Graft interviewed Alaa Zaid about her experience and journey of becoming a Fulbright scholar at Stetson University. They had in-depth discussions on various topics such as cultural engagement, teaching, and curriculum development. Learn more about what Alaa Zaid has to say regarding these topics and advice for students who want to pursue becoming a Fulbright scholar.

Background and Motivation

Philip De-Graft: Can you tell me about your journey to becoming a Fulbright Scholar? What motivated you to pursue a Fulbright, and what was the application process like for you?

Alaa Zaid: I graduated from the Faculty of Languages, Literature and Simultaneous Interpretation which provided me with a strong foundation in language and cultural studies. I’ve worked as an English instructor for four years and a teaching assistant for one year, often teaching my students about American culture and lifestyle. Through my work and studies, I connected with friends from the US, which fueled my excitement for the opportunity to explore their world and build new connections. The opportunity to move from the theories, videos, and books to the real-world experience of the U.S. was incredibly motivating. The application process was lengthy and challenging but ultimately rewarding. It involved crafting a personal statement, highlighting my achievements, and demonstrating my commitment to fostering mutual understanding between Egypt and the US. My motivation stemmed from a passion for bridging cultural gaps and sharing Egypt’s rich heritage with the world.

Philip De-Graft: How has your background in English as a Foreign Language education influenced your teaching style or perspective on language learning?

Alaa Zaid: As a graduate of the Faculty of Languages and an English teacher, I’ve learned to see language as a bridge for communication. This perspective shapes my teaching style, focusing on interactive, student-centered learning and using cultural context to make language more relatable and engaging.

Experiences at Stetson University

Philip De-Graft: What have been some of your most rewarding experiences as a Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) at Stetson University?

Alaa Zaid: One of the most rewarding aspects of my Fulbright experience has been watching my students improve in reading and writing Arabic, a challenging language. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see them actively engage with and enjoy the activities I prepare.

Philip De-Graft: How has your role in developing course materials and teaching Arabic as a foreign language helped you grow as an educator?

Alaa Zaid: Preparing and developing course materials for the Arabic class was initially challenging, as I needed to make the lessons both engaging and accessible. My goal has always been to ensure students understand and actively practice what we cover in class. This process not only pushed me to explore creative teaching methods but also helped me gain a deeper understanding of my students’ mentalities and learning styles. Adapting my approach to what works best for them has significantly strengthened my skills as an educator.

Teaching and Curriculum Development

Philip De-Graft: Could you share some examples of the innovative teaching methods or materials you’ve developed for your students?

Alaa Zaid: I created an interactive classroom game that combines competition with active learning. Students move around the room, searching for words strategically placed on the walls. This dynamic activity not only reinforces their learning but also makes the experience enjoyable and memorable. By engaging both their minds and energy, I’m confident they’ll retain what they’ve learned long-term.

Cultural Engagement

Philip De-Graft: You’ve had the opportunity to share Egyptian culture with students through various presentations and workshops. How do you feel cultural exchange enriches the learning experience for both you and your students?

Alaa Zaid: I’ve organized cultural events like “Hijab Talks,” which have been incredibly rewarding. These events provided an opportunity for my students and others from various majors to gain a more authentic understanding of our culture and religious beliefs. It was fulfilling to help break stereotypes about the Arab world, address unspoken questions, and engage in meaningful discussions on diverse topics. Interacting with Stetson students also enriched my own perspective, as I not only gained a deeper understanding of American culture but also learned about cultures from around the globe, thanks to the university’s vibrant international community.

Philip De-Graft: How has traveling around the U.S. influenced your personal growth and understanding of different cultures? Could you share some of the most memorable experiences from your visits to various states and how they impacted you?

Alaa Zaid: I’ve had the chance to visit six states so far and plan to explore six more during my winter break. Each place has taught me something unique. One of the most memorable experiences was visiting my friend’s Native American family in South Dakota. I had the privilege of learning about their culture and lifestyle, which was truly inspiring. Exploring local museums and hearing their stories deepened my understanding of their history. The highlight was visiting natural wonders like Badlands and Black Hills, where I also saw snow for the first time in my life. It was an unforgettable experience to be surrounded by people who’ve become like a second family to me.
Along the way, I’ve also made wonderful friends, which has been a great comfort, especially during the early days when I dealt with homesickness. These experiences have opened my eyes to the vastness and diversity of the world, while helping me grow in ways I never imagined, shaping a more open and adventurous version of myself.

Future Goals and Impact

Philip De-Graft: How has the Fulbright experience shaped your academic or career goals moving forward?

Alaa Zaid: The Fulbright experience has strengthened my ambition to pursue advanced studies, possibly an MBA, master’s, or PhD in the U.S. It has also deepened my commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding and language education as tools for global unity.

Philip De-Graft: What do you hope to achieve with your work, both during and after your time at Stetson, in terms of educational or cultural exchange?

Alaa Zaid: During and after my time at Stetson, I aspire to expand educational and cultural exchange initiatives that inspire students and educators to embrace diversity. I plan to organize more cultural events and discussions aimed at bridging gaps between different cultures, fostering understanding, and building connections across communities.

Advice for Future Fulbright Applicants

Philip De-Graft: What advice would you give to students or educators interested in applying for a Fulbright scholarship?

Alaa Zaid: I encourage them to apply for Fulbright scholarships and embrace the opportunity for a life-changing experience that will broaden their perspectives on the world. Since arriving here, I’ve grown personally in countless ways, becoming more adventurous and open to new experiences. I urge them to engage with the community, take the initiative, and always think outside the box. Building friendships and appreciating the cultural diversity at Stetson University and across the U.S. will enrich their journey and contribute to their growth.

Alaa Zaid

July 3, 2024July 10, 2026

Summer reflections of an international student now graduate

Chasing a dream: an opportunity as a life changer

by: Yana Verbova

Have you ever pondered what it’s truly like to chase your dreams, regardless of how daunting the path might appear? Let me assure you, the impossible is within reach. My story stands as a beacon of hope and resilience.

Two years ago, I stood on the brink of a dream, miles away from home in a country engulfed by war. Two years ago, I arrived at Stetson as a dedicated Ukrainian student to be one of the four lucky ones thanks to the Ukrainian Initiative program. Prior to Stetson, I studied dentistry for two years in Ukraine, but an unexpected burst of war events like a horrendous gash on the heart of my beautiful country ruined all my plans and belief in the bright future.

When fate decides it is your turn, there is no way to lose the chance that happens once in a hundred, but grab it in a heartbeat instead. That is exactly what I did. However, I felt like I was split into two worlds: leaving my fabulous country with my close friends and family, who undergo a lot of difficulties every single day fighting for their own life, or building my own bright future in the USA. No matter how tough of a decision it was to me, I consciously decided to give Stetson a go, since studying in Ukraine was barely possible already at that time.

My decision was absolutely right, the best one ever, I would say. The moment I set foot on campus, I fell in love. Though my first week was challenging, dealing with homesickness and loneliness, I embraced my mission: to gain a prestigious education that would empower me to help rebuild my country.

The past two years (2022-2024) were filled with diverse and exciting experiences. My journey was nothing short of transformative, ranging from gaining hands-on experience with the dental club during my first year, to delivering presentations and events to raise awareness about Ukraine. I also had the privilege of tutoring peers at the Writing Center, traveling, and repeatedly earning a place on the Dean’s List.

Stetson felt like home at the first glance. Encouragement from faculty members, support from the international student community, and the thrill of engaging classes really made my heart warmer and renewed my long-lost belief in a fulfilled life. I am proud to be a part of the marvelous Ukrainian community, with whom we built such an inseparable bond throughout these two years. Having a myriad of Ukrainian events and presentations made me feel both heart-rending and glad, since spreading awareness nowadays is a key.

Stetson has also been a place for professional development for me, since my job at the Writing Center wasn’t just about commas and essays, but it truly gave me essential tools to be a clear and effective communicator and a leader, which is vital in the healthcare profession. Let alone talking about my Senior Research, where elaborate analysis of studies came into reality of me studying the participants in real life.

To all prospective international students: I encourage you to apply to Stetson University. This supportive community, coupled with academic excellence in the beautiful sunshine state, will undoubtedly enrich your life. Embrace the challenge; you are the architect of your own future. Never stop believing in yourself and striving for self-realization.

My Stetson experience has been a wild ride-a rollercoaster of knowledge, compassion, hope, success and failure. None of this would have been possible without the incredible people who shaped my journey. I laughed, cried, grew and flourished at Stetson. Stetson is a place to be, Stetson is home, Stetson is my sole.

Everything is possible! Never stop believing and doing everything for your own self-realization! I am profoundly grateful to everyone who supported me on this journey and to the universe for this unparalleled experience. I am ready to embrace my next endeavors with optimism and determination.

So, here’s to Stetson, to our incredible journey together, and to a future where Ukrainians and Americans fly side-by-side towards a healthier, brighter tomorrow! And hey, if I ever find myself missing that Florida sunshine during my studies at Brown University for my MPH, you can bet this Hatter will be hopping on the next flight back to the warm Floridian home I found at Stetson!

“Once a Hatter, always a Hatter”. Couldn’t be happier to say this as a Stetson Alumna.

April 14, 2024July 10, 2026

Florida Lessons from Abroad Conference

By Sara Hassler

April 5th, 2024 marked a new day for study abroad at Stetson University. WORLD: The David and Leighan Center for International Learning, hosted their inaugural state conference here in Deland. Attendees and presenters from all over Florida came together to enjoy the fruits of their labor from their time studying abroad. Neighboring schools like University of North Florida, University of South Florida, University of Central Florida and Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, came together to host the Lessons from Abroad Conference.

Shaun O. Smith and pal present at the Florida Lessons from Abroad Conference

The morning began in Lee Chapel with a warm and proud welcome from President Christopher Roellke, led by Provost Skomp sharing her support for the conference and her own mention of leading a study abroad program in her past. The opening ceremony was concluded by Assistant Director of International Learning Programs, Melanie Smith, who joyfully directed the group towards the first presentations in Brown Hall and Sage Hall. Presentations now having begun, the two halls were brimming with stories about traveling abroad, becoming international students, and all the wonders of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to pursue higher education. Presenters stretched from Stetson students to students from the visiting universities giving their take on their lessons from abroad.

The day was nicely interrupted by a break for lunch in the Stetson Room, where attendees and presenters had a chance to learn how to utilize their study abroad experience in their resumes and ventures into the workforce. Presentations led by University of North Florida and Stetson University aimed at teaching students how to include their experiences abroad in their resumes and how to account for the lessons they encountered while abroad. From missing a bus in Europe to remastering the experience to demonstrate a student’s critical thinking skills, attendees were provided with worksheets that allowed them to identify learning objectives that matched with their time abroad.

After lunch, presentations continued and the conference was later concluded with closing remarks in Lee Chapel. That marked the end to the first ever statewide Lessons from Abroad Conference at Stetson University, the beginning of a great tradition that will hopefully be continued for years to come.

Note: Stetson University pioneered the first university-wide Lessons from Abroad Conference on March 31, 2023. The concept was expanded to a statewide initiative thereafter.

Monique Silva Dias and Elisa Mullisi present “Two Sides of a Study Abroad Story”

April 12, 2024April 12, 2024

Study Abroad Photo Contest 2024

Thank you to all the students who submitted pictures for WORLD’s 2024 Study Abroad Photo Contest! WORLD staff deliberated and narrowed the choices down to our top 10 finalists. Now we need your help to determine the winner!

Please take a look at the photos below and then cast your vote for your favorite three photos by noon on Friday, April 19!

**Enchanted Red in the Wind** by Anuket Goins (Kyoto, Japan)

**Venice Walking Pathways** by Audrey Best (Venice, Italy)

**The Hills are Alive** by Caley Petersen (Innsbruck, Austria)

**Castelvecchio Fortress** by Alexandria Metivier (Verona, Italy)

**Shinjuku Night** by Abigail Edwards (Tokyo, Japan)

**Cambridge, United Kingdom** by Emily Basdeo (Cambridge, UK)

**Saraguro Beauty** by Jazlyn Gregory (Saraguro, Ecuador)

**Vibrant Venetian Canal** by Laura Cheshire (Venice, Italy)

**Kiyomizu-Dera Temple** by Mallory Holland (Kyoto, Japan)

**The Kelpies** by Meghan Steward (Grangemouth, Scotland)

Please remember to cast your vote for your favorite three photos by noon on Friday, April 19!

April 8, 2024

Rinker Global Scholars Program: Madness in Venice

-Written by: Heather Fontaine; Adapted from StetsonToday

During Spring Break in March, 16 Stetson students traveled to Italy for nine days, led by their two course professors, as part of the Rinker Global Scholars Program. All of the students were selected for the study abroad opportunity and given a generous scholarship from Drs. David and Leighan Rinker, which significantly subsidized the program’s cost.

The 2024 Rinker Global Scholars explore Venice as part of their class on mental health reforms in Italy

The new course, Madness in Venice, explores how the conceptualization of mental illness has changed across time –— developed and co-taught by Michael Eskenazi, PhD, associate professor of Psychology, and Melinda Hall, PhD, associate professor of Philosophy and interim associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

“No matter the student’s major, they understand the importance of mental health,” Eskenazi said. “Given the recent trends in college student mental health, this course topic was a timely and worthwhile investment for the Rinker Global Scholars Program.”

On campus during the semester, the students learned about the different approaches that philosophers and psychologists use in understanding history and human behavior, specifically honing in on the history of mental illness treatments over time in Venice. Once abroad, the experiential learning journey started with a short ferry ride to the San Servolo Insane Asylum, where the students were able to understand how people with mental illness were treated before the passage of the Basaglia Law in 1978, which led to more ethical mental health treatment and practices.

The now-museum was full of instruments, equipment and imagery of patients who were held at the asylum. While an eerie energy filled the spaces of this once leading-edge psychiatric hospital, a sense of peace was felt knowing legislative changes had influenced not only better care for people with mental illnesses, but increased awareness of disability justice activism, having a positive ripple effect across the globe.

“Coming out of Venice now, our class is a lot closer, and were able to talk about these issues in a much more important and personal way than we had before,” commented Laura Cheshire, a senior Art Therapy major.

In addition to exploring other clinically relevant locations that coincided with their classroom studies, students enjoyed St. Mark’s Square, including famous landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Grand Canal, where continually operating gondola tours begin and end.

Students explore Piazza San Marco in Venice

Venturing out of Venice to visit Verona, Bologna, and the islands of Murano and Burano, adjacent to the Venetian Lagoon, the group witnessed a private glass-blowing demonstration. Also, they toured a town sprinkled with small brightly painted houses owned by locals who have mastered the craft of lacemaking for hundreds of generations.

“The excursions allowed students to acquaint themselves with the harmonious aspects of Italy,” Hall noted. “I hope to call students to wonder about our obligations to others and to ourselves, the social structures and systems which impact the ways we understand each other and our own subjectivity, and who belongs in our moral communities and why.”

Eskenazi believes that as Stetson’s new Strategic Priorities outline the importance of people, culture and inclusive excellence, this study abroad course taught students the power of global citizenship by showing them the implications and improvements one country can have on the world.

“I have seen immense personal and academic transformation in students as they open their minds to new experiences, interact with people from different cultures, and learn how historical events in foreign countries are directly related to their studies and lives today,” Eskenazi concluded.

You can view a short video of the students’ experience on YouTube.

Note: You can learn more about the Rinker Global Scholars Program on WORLD’s website. The 2025 program will take place in Venice again and will focus on Music and Art through History.

February 9, 2024February 19, 2024

WORLD Fair

by: Damaria Y Ramierz-Espinal

On February 2^nd while students were in their daily routine with either classes or other matters, at WORLD we were preparing for a wonderful event that morning. The WORLD Fair was in full swing with the festivities and excitement from the children from an elementary school visiting our campus.

Nearly 80 3rd and 4th graders had the opportunity to learn about multiple countries and cultures from around the world. In total, Stetson students presented 15 tables with each one highlighting a different country or continent. The children had a fantastic time at the fair with a range of games, food, activities, and fun facts for them to explore. Everyone one who tabled also had a great time interacting with the children as they were able to share a piece of new cultures and home with them. The WORLD Fair was a great success with everyone having a blast during the event!

Children learning about Ghana and Nigeria, and the continent of Africa. They even got to try on traditional clothes

Our FLTA Scholar showing children how to write their names in Egyptian letters

A Spanish children’s running game – the first one to grab the Spanish flag wins

Norwegian children’s game “Spijkerpoepen”

Students wrote down what they learned from our Stetson students

January 20, 2024January 31, 2024

International Student Orientation, Spring 2024

By: Anne Walcher

As the sun dawned on this Tuesday morning, the campus of Stetson University was quiet and calm. Only a few students stayed on campus over the winter break. But the WORLD Office with all its ambassadors buzzed with excitement and anticipation. It was the start of International Student Orientation Days, a time for WORLD to welcome new students from all over the world. The welcoming committee gathered in U-hall, ready to extend a warm Stetson welcome to the arriving students and ready to help move them into their new home.

The official kick-off took place Wednesday. The day started early (no worries, we had plenty of coffee) with a jam-packed schedule at the Lynn Business Center. WORLD aimed to provide our new internationals with essential knowledge from Immigration Basics, Handling the Logistics, Student Health Insurance to Living on Campus and Working on Campus. However, it wasn`t all business- after a fun campus-wide scavenger hunt we had a delightful lunch from Moe`s, fueling students for the remaining activities. In the afternoon, the group embarked on a trip to Walmart for some essential shopping. The day ended with a cozy Pizza dinner at WORLD, providing the perfect setting for students to unwind and share stories.

The second day started a little bit later but there was no shortage of enriching activities. Presentations about Academic Culture in America and a following Mock Class were combined with Campus tours, showcasing the main buildings and key locations on campus. A break and lunch from Publix offered moments of relaxation and sustenance for the last presentations of International Student Orientation. Finally, the group gathered for a picture in front of the iconic fountain- a symbol for unity and shared experiences.

Reflecting on these days of orientation, it was a blend of many feelings. We had stressful moments trying to find one student’s luggage, funny moments laughing about stories students shared with us and sometimes even sentimental moments because these days reminded us how we felt when we arrived at Stetson. Friendships were made, and the shared experiences created a strong sense of community.

The New International Student orientation days were not just an introduction; they were the first chapter in a story of cross-cultural connections, personal growth, and the pursuit of knowledge on our vibrant campus of Stetson University.

Welcome to all our new international students!

December 5, 2023December 5, 2023

Nigerian Culture Hour

WORLD Ambassadors worked with the African Student Union and the International Student Organization to host Nigerian Culture Hour at WORLD on Friday, December 1 at 5pm. More than 30 students were in attendance to learn some fun facts about Nigeria, playing a Mentee game, and enjoying real Nigerian food prepared by Deltona caterer Forks & Fingers Nigerian Cuisine.