Northern Michigan University Receives $35,000 for Study Abroad Opportunities with Education Students

Northern Michigan University receives 35,000 dollars for study abroad opportunities for education students. Northern Michigan University will receive a portion of the 1.3 million dollars awarded to 37 universities for increasing study abroad opportunities as a part of the 2024 Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students grant program. The university will partner with the nonprofit Heart to Heart Belize, for faculty to lead students on a 10-day immersive opportunity in literacy-based activities in San Ignacio next year. During the 10 days, students will assist teachers in local classrooms, tutor small groups, and distribute books at community markets.

Assistant Professor Kristen White says that the student population of classrooms in the United States continues to diversify. Additionally, future educators need to have a diverse range of experiences working with people to develop effective teaching skills. The IDEAS program grant will include an exchange that will bring the Heat to Heart Belize Founder to campus for a presentation during the upcoming winter semester. Northern Michigan University education faculty are responsible for earning the grant award to vouch that international education can serve as important exposure to other cultures for future educators through their past experiences abroad. Northern Michigan’s faculty will also partner with regional tribal and community colleges to encourage transfer students to learn about study abroad opportunities.

Assistant Professor White and colleagues Bethany Bergh and Laura Kennedy worked to bring the 35,000-dollar education program grant to Northern Michigan University. Those interested in learning more about the IDEAS program grant awarded to Northern Michigan University for study abroad opportunities can find more details here.