Students Showcase International Learning Experience at Global Expo
Students on the Costa Rica Preview make tacos at Global Expo
Visitors to the University Commons traveled around the world in just a few hours at the annual Global Expo on April 5.
The 278 first-year and transfer students from 12 Preview courses showcased their global experiences, such as learning about ecotourism in Costa Rica and exploring the history of U.S. conflict in Vietnam. Attendees could delve into the culture of these countries, inspecting artifacts, consuming traditional foods and drinks, and discussing the lesser-known points of the visited locations.
At the Oman Preview station, students sold t-shirts to raise money for future students on the course who may need financial assistant.
“Preview is a once in a lifetime trip,” said Allyson McCreery, International Peace and Conflict Resolution program support specialist and co-leader of the Oman Preview. “We want to help students get there if they want to go.”
Sam Wragg ’20, a transfer Public Health major who said the international experience was his first time abroad and something he’ll remember for a lifetime, said Preview reinforced his knowledge of who he is and what he’s meant to do in life.
“It gave me a true understanding of what I’m here for—I’m a nurturer,” said Wragg. McCreery started the “Save Sam Fund,” which covered the $595 program fee and other expenses. “It made me realize there’s a lot of good people out there who will help you pursue your dreams.”
Preview courses went to ten destinations this year from March 9 to 17, including Oman, Ethiopia, France, England, Italy, Ireland, Vietnam, China, Costa Rica and Northern Ireland. Since its inception in 1994, Preview has taken nearly 8,000 students around the world to challenge ideas and explore study abroad options.
