NESA UGRAD Students Share Academic Exchange Experience and Future Plans to Change the World

On March 31, 2012, seventy-nine participants from the Near East and South Asia Undergraduate Exchange Program (NESA UGRAD) gathered at the University of Missouri for a re-entry workshop where they reflected on their study abroad experiences in the U.S., prepared for returning to their home countries, and shared their future aspirations.

Sponsored by The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, NESA UGRAD is a one-year undergraduate exchange experience for students from underrepresented regions in the Near East and South Asia. Each year emerging student leaders are placed in diverse host institutions across the U.S. where they engage in full-time coursework, community service, professional development, and cultural enrichment activities.

The re-entry workshop prepared students for cultural re-adjustment upon their return home, provided practical tools for students' future careers, and strengthened alumni networks. Students attended presentations focused on reverse culture shock, processing and reflection, resume and interview preparation, and brainstorming sessions on alumni engagement.

"Each of us comes from a country that has some kind of troubles at home, and sometimes we feel depressed like nothing can ever change. But this program has given us the strength to go home and really make a difference in our lives, our countries and the world. We feel hopeful," commented Joanna, a NESA UGRAD student from Lebanon.

Many NESA UGRAD fellows plan to continue community service activities at home while completing their studies at their home university. Many fellows commented on how they plan to use their new global perspective to promote understanding and peace in their professional and personal endeavors.

Click here to learn more about the NESA UGRAD program.