As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it’s vital for engineers to have a global perspective. Studying abroad offers GW Engineering students an opportunity not only to explore the world but also to participate in it, giving them a powerful edge in solving complex global issues in their future careers.
Within GW Engineering, the Co-Curricular Engagement and Interdisciplinary Programs (CEIP) team helps connect students to various opportunities abroad. At two events this academic year, “From Seoul to SEH (Science & Engineering Hall)” and “Studying Across the SEAS (School of Engineering and Applied Science),” they worked to increase interest in global experiences through free food, hands-on activities, and stories from those who have studied abroad in the past.
Alana Lee and Zeina Nweashe, a global experiences ambassador and assistant, respectively, played a key role in hosting both events. Behind the scenes, they coordinated logistics, and during the events, they shared their own experiences of spending a semester in South Korea.
The partnership between GW and Korea University (KU) is one of the main programs in which GW Engineering students participate, as those accepted receive a stipend. They also enroll directly in KU classes for a truly immersive experience. Alumna Amarachi Elekeokwuri, B.S. ‘25, used these perks to cover her housing and travel expenses in and out of Seoul and to take a Dynamics of Korean Society class to explore Korean culture.
Elekeokwuri’s experience exemplifies the kind of cultural immersion and personal growth this program offers–a theme the team brought to life at “From Seoul to SEH.” By highlighting the cultural differences students might encounter in Korea, they hoped to spark curiosity about the global perspective students can gain at KU.
“Whether it is trying a new snack or dessert, visiting a historical place, or simply enjoying a conversation with someone new, I’ve found that the memories I have of small, yet fulfilling moments like these are some of my favorites to look back on when I think of my time abroad,” Lee stated.
At “Studying Across the SEAS,” the team worked to debunk common misconceptions about studying abroad so that more students can have these once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Lee shared that she often hears that engineering students think going abroad will delay their graduation date and that their GW scholarship will not apply–myths that were debunked by showcasing the resources across the university.
The team encouraged students to start planning early. Meetings with academic advisors will help them plan their schedules to meet curriculum requirements and graduate on time, while GW’s Office of Student Financial Assistance and Office for Study Abroad can confirm that their scholarship still applies. In fact, the Office for Study Abroad offers additional scholarship opportunities that may even make a semester abroad less expensive.
Nweashe was among the students who shared their experiences at global experiences events, providing a firsthand account of what it’s like to apply and then live in another country. The team hopes that by hearing these stories, attendees were inspired to be curious about the world around them and to explore global experiences, whether through KU or one of the other 150-plus programs across 60 countries available at GW.
“Being part of ‘Studying Across the SEAS’ was a meaningful experience because it gave me the opportunity to reflect on my study abroad journey and share it with other students. I really enjoyed contributing my perspective and helping encourage other SEAS students to explore opportunities abroad,” Nweashe shared.
Reflecting on her own application process, Lee emphasized that hearing from other engineering students who had studied in South Korea helped her prepare. “I learned about student life at KU, what to expect with the public transit system, making friends abroad, and so much more that you might not get from reading a pamphlet online!” she said.
Do you think studying abroad is right for you? Contact GW’s Office for Study Abroad to learn more!