The GoAbroad Team pleased to bring you the 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards Finalists!  Today we celebrate and recognize the Innovative New Program Internship Abroad Finalists.

We received many wonderful nominations and the selection committee has chosen five finalists, listed here in alphabetical order. Throughout the month of May 2013, GoAbroad will highlight the finalists in each of the GoAbroad Innovation Award categories! Winners for each category will be announced during the GoAbroad Reception during the Annual NAFSA Conference & Expo.

Congratulations to the 2013 Innovative New Program Internship Abroad Finalists!

BridgeAbroad

Internship and Business Studies in Brazil

As the business world grows ever more international, a global outlook has become less a luxury than a critical tool for professional success. And BridgeAbroad’s Internship and Business Studies program has made it easier (and more fun!) than ever before.

Based in São Paulo, Brazil’s meteoric commercial capital, BridgeAbroad’s ten-week program combines graduate business studies at the renowned Business School São Paulo with a substantive internship in your field of interest. If you’re a current MBA student, there’s no better way to broaden your horizons as you immerse yourself in the fast-paced business culture of the Southern Hemisphere’s most important city.

CRCC Asia

CRCC Asia’s Internship + Travel Program

Over the past several months, CRCC Asia and The Dragon Trip have collaborated to create a unique program that combines the best that China has to offer. Through this joint Internship + Travel Program, participants are able to develop themselves professionally as well as explore all of the amazing sights and sounds to be found in the Middle Kingdom!

For the first part of the program, participants will engage in either a 1 or 2 month long internship with a top tier firm in the industry of their choice in Beijing or Shanghai. This is a fantastic way for students and recent graduates to take advantage of China’s booming economy,  build their resume, explore their interests within the professional world, and gain insight into the global workplace. This experience is valuable for participants who wish to one day engage in international business and those who simply want to boost their job prospects upon return to their home country.

After the internship component, participants will be given the opportunity to change out of their suits and ties in favor of their traveling clothes, as the next 20 days will be spent on a guided, backpacking tour throughout China! The program is designed to showcase the most breathtaking, unique and off-the-beaten-track sights in all of China. Participants will marvel at the Terra Cotta Warriors of Xi’an, play with the pandas of Chengdu, camp overnight at the Great Wall, and jump from the world’s highest bungee jump in Macau!

Though only initiated in mid-2012, this collaborative program has already proven immensely popular.  CRCC Asia’s new Internship + Travel program delivers the best of both worlds, with participants working to prepare themselves for their future, as well as discover the most amazing cultural, geographical and historical places in China!

Global Experiences 

Global Connections Networking Events

Global Experiences has become a leader in innovative Experiential Education programs offering international internship programs and career development in 10 cities around the world. Our goal is to focus on individualized education outcomes through personalized career development, strengths based customized internship placements and on the ground program management that differentiates us from others in this industry.

Global Connections networking events are one of Global Experiences newest innovations and have been added to the Global Experiences social program on location. Starting in London in 2012 these events create a professional community for interns, alumni and employer hosts that emphasize the importance of networking as a career development tool. Each event is a gathering of individuals from a variety of career fields, including guest speakers with practical advice on how to be effective at developing and maintain professional relationships, and employers willing to help students further develop their skills.  Interns are offered a warm, welcoming environment to practice speaking confidently about themselves to others, alumni share advice on how to maximize the internship experience and look to connect with potential employers, and employer hosts engage in cross-industry networking while learning more about the strengths and core values of Global Experiences participants.

Alumni of previous Global Experiences programs from around the world, some who are now employers themselves also attend the events and give advice to the current generation of interns. Including Alumni also allows us to offer continued value to our former participants as they build their network often while living in new cities themselves. Global Connections events shift the focus from the actual internship, to learning how to leverage the international work experience in a professional setting to ensure Global Experiences participants maximize the outcome from their international program.

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad

Global Personal Brand Discovery Toolbox

The GlobaLinks Learning Abroad internship program is now much more than just a placement - it is a global career-building experience. In 2012, GlobaLinks Learning Abroad re-invented the internship program, expanded to more countries, and added components that give participants the complete package they need to be successful not only during, but also after the program. The most remarkable addition is the Global Personal Brand Discovery Toolbox. This key component adds significant value to the program as it provides participants with training and tools to utilize their international internship experience  in their future career path.

The development of a personal brand is very important as a well-defined personal brand allows an individual to clearly differentiate themselves from the thousands of other graduates. The GlobaLinks Learning Abroad Personal Brand Toolbox helps participants discover and create their brand message for others, including potential employers. From the beginning of the program through to a participant’s return, each student is given numerous resources and tools in order to learn how to intertwine aspects of the international internship experience into a strong personal brand. The goal is to not only provide high-quality work experience and international discovery, but a solid framework that a student can use long into the future. The toolbox includes:

1. Workbook on Personal Branding – An easy step-by-step book that you can use for tangibles on building your brand

2. Business/Networking Cards – Specially designed business/networking cards to take with you on the program to encourage networking

3. Social Media Development – Resources or online workshop which focuses on LinkedIn account information and utilization

4. Personal Brand Assessment – A pre-departure assessment on current brand strength

5. Resume and Cover Letter Resources

HECUA

New Zealand Culture and the Environment: A Shared Future

The Higher Education Consortium for Urban Affairs (HECUA) and colleagues in New Zealand have developed an interdisciplinary program devoted to the interconnections of society and the environment in New Zealand. The program will be first offered in the fall semester 2012 (September - December), having received approval from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. The program will examine how social and environmental factors are shaping political and ecological dimensions of identity and culture, and how New Zealanders from many different backgrounds are envisioning and creating a shared future in Aotearoa New Zealand, the "Land of the Long White Cloud."

In the early part of the semester, discussions of history and culture with European, indigenous Māori, and Pacifica leaders will establish the complex bases of New Zealand’s identity and nationhood: its bicultural foundation and diverse multicultural population, the rich ecological setting, national commitments to peace and sustainability, and the challenges posed by globalization. Students will then learn about New Zealand's ecological history, the challenges of its "clean and green" national brand, and the sustainability frameworks that have been developed both by European and Māori New Zealanders.

**This post is brought to you by this month's GoAbroad Blog Sponsor, StudentUniverse . Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Big Ben by Moyan_Brenn, on Flickr

Today on GoAbroad we bring you a post from StudentUniverse featuring the most popular destinations to study abroad this Fall! StudentUniverse is the largest student deals site in the U.S. They were founded as a student travel agency and launched their service in 2000, providing students all over the world with exclusive deals. Read on to learn which destinations made the Fall 2013 cut:

Planning to study abroad in Europe the next Fall semester? According to a recent StudentUniverse study, these are the 2013 top 5 most popular cities students plan to study in this Fall!

5. Madrid

Students love Madrid for its world renowned night scene and length “siestas,” but they study abroad here for its globally ranked universities. The city itself it a unique combination of new and old with modern architecture surrounded by a picturesque landscape and traditions such as live bullfighting or flamenco dance performances.

4. Dublin

Ranked in the top 10 best student cities as reported by QS, Dublin personifies the fighting spirit, triumph over the odds and passion for family and justice. Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s oldest university and holds a reputation for its excellence in teaching and research. You will get the best of both worlds with its high tech facilities alongside historic buildings and lively surrounding city.

3. Rome

Roman Colosseum by Moyan Brenn, on Flickr

Roma! AKA the Eternal City, AKA the City of seven hills, AKA Caput Mundi. However you refer to it, study abroad in Rome is like no other experience. Take a walk through the medieval, baroque and renaissance eras while learning the history of art and politics and its influence on the developing world.

2. Paris

Home to romance, art and glamour, Paris offers unique culture and tradition to the academic you won’t find anywhere else in the world.  Learn the classic romantic language of French at schools such as the Sorbonne or the Institut Catholique while sipping an espresso with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop.

1. London

With over 20 different universities and institutes of higher education, students are sure to find a program that meets their needs.  Not to mention the culture and history to compliment the education. From the British Museum to Westminster Abbey and Big Ben to Trafalgar Square, the adventures through time are endless.

Want to know how to get there cheap? Check out the Top 5 Ways to Save While Studying Abroad!

Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week:

• Blog of the Week: Paper Planes
  It's Friday -- and time for GoAbroad's Blog of the Week! This week's selection is: Paper Planes Feeling a little lost? You aren't alone. This week's Blog of the Week, Paper Planes, embraces the concept of being a little lost, regardless of how old you are, and allowing it to feed your wanderlust. As blog [...]
• 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards: Innovative New Program Volunteer Abroad Finalists
  The GoAbroad Team pleased to bring you the 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards Finalists!  Today we celebrate and recognize the Innovative New Program Volunteer Abroad Finalists. We received many wonderful nominations and the selection committee has chosen five finalists, listed here in alphabetical order. Throughout the month of May 2013, GoAbroad will highlight the finalists in each of the GoAbroad [...]
• International Education & GoAbroad Across America: INFOGRAPHIC
  Have you been following GoAbroad's travels in the GoAbroad Bus around the country? Throughout 2012 and into 2013, GoAbroad.com has visited a variety of international education offices and university campuses, and participated in numerous study abroad fairs, bringing a wealth of meaningful travel resources direct to students' fingertips! We are now pleased to showcase the results of these [...]
• 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards: Innovative New Program Study Abroad Finalists
  The GoAbroad Team pleased to bring you the 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards Finalists!  Today we celebrate and recognize the Innovative New Program Study Abroad Finalists. We received many wonderful nominations and the selection committee has chosen five finalists, listed here in alphabetical order. Throughout the month of May 2013, GoAbroad will highlight the finalists in each of the GoAbroad [...]
• Post-Grad Panic: I Need a Job!
  The school year is over and you still don't have a job. Some of your friends are still finishing up final exams while others have already started full-time positions. But you're somewhere in between; no longer a student (technically) but not yet into your career. You're out there, floating, desperately trying to find that current [...]
• GoAbroad Weekly Digest: Saturday, 11 May 2013
  Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week: Blog of the Week: Ways of Wanderers It's Friday -- and time for GoAbroad's Blog of the Week! This week's selection is: Ways of Wanderers This week's Blog of the Week, Ways of Wanderers, comes to readers from travel blogger Jessica. The appetite she has for [...]

It's Friday -- and time for GoAbroad's Blog of the Week! This week's selection is:

Paper Planes

Feeling a little lost? You aren't alone. This week's Blog of the Week, Paper Planes, embraces the concept of being a little lost, regardless of how old you are, and allowing it to feed your wanderlust. As blog creator, Alana, says about Paper Planes: "I haven’t traveled to as many places, worked as many jobs, have as great of photos, been traveling as long or lived in as many countries as other people. But I can share this journey of mine and hope that others may fulfill a bit of wanderlust or take something away from the places I’ve been and the lessons I’ve learned." Combine this with the topics Paper Planes covers - from budget travel tips to what it's like living as an expat in Thailand - and you can rest assured this is a travel blog you won't want to miss!
Why We Love It

In 2011, Alana quit her 9-5 job to go travel and experience the world. She explains that she "wanted different stories, problems, discoveries and connections 'before it was too late'." Nearly two years later, Alana is still living abroad, planning her next move, and documenting each adventure on Paper Planes. Whether she's discussing the re-entry process and culture shock, how to navigate a market in Chiang Mai, or simple ways to save money when living abroad, Paper Planes is successful in how it serves as a resource and inspiration to others to make the leap and travel abroad.

In Alana's own words, "I’ve always been fascinated by other cultures, places, traditions, languages, and people.  I love piecing a new place together, appreciating what makes it special, and seeing how different people live their lives.  I also don’t have the slightest clue of where I want to be or what I want to be doing,  so am using this time to figure that out." Like we said before, if you're feeling a bit lost yourself, Paper Planes is the blog you want to be reading!

Check out Paper Planes for more updates from Alana and explore GoAbroad.com for thousands of ways to live and work abroad!

Every week GoAbroad features an abroad-related blog as our selection for Blog of the Week. The featured blog has been chosen because it features interesting and well-written abroad or travel-related experiences. Do you know a blog you'd like to nominate for the GoAbroad Blog of the Week award? Get information on how to submit a nomination on the GoAbroad Blogger Programs page!

**This post is brought to you by this month's GoAbroad Blog Sponsor, StudentUniverse . Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

The GoAbroad Team pleased to bring you the 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards Finalists!  Today we celebrate and recognize the Innovative New Program Volunteer Abroad Finalists.

We received many wonderful nominations and the selection committee has chosen five finalists, listed here in alphabetical order. Throughout the month of May 2013, GoAbroad will highlight the finalists in each of the GoAbroad Innovation Award categories! Winners for each category will be announced during the GoAbroad Reception during the Annual NAFSA Conference & Expo.

Congratulations to the 2013 Innovative New Program Volunteer Abroad Finalists!

African Impact

Chimpanzee and Wildlife Orphan Sanctuary, Zambia

Described by Jane Goodall as ‘the most wonderful place on earth’, Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage in Zambia is the largest chimpanzee sanctuary in the world, and home to African Impact’s Chimpanzee and Wildlife Orphan Care Project.

Chimfunshi gives refuge to over 100 chimps rescued from the bush meat trade, circuses, zoos and bars (where they are chained up for entertainment and inadequately cared for).  In partnership with Chimfunshi, African Impact runs a volunteer program on the banks of the Kafue River in Northern Zambia to help rehabilitate and conserve rescued chimps.

VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES:

Volunteers assist in important primate research, behavioural enrichment activities for the chimps, farming, building and refurbishing enclosures and conservation education for the local community.  The creation of chimp identikits has also been used for our ‘Chimp of the Week’ posts on our Facebook page where we share with followers the history and personality of one chimp every week; and the kits are essential for research and  keeping visiting tourists informed.

NEW INNOVATIONS:

The newest innovation to be carried out on this project is the introduction of fruit-tree farming to aid self-sufficiency and sustainability.  Exotic fruits such as mangos, avocados and guavas are well loved by the chimps, and the indigenous trees such as Monkey oranges and Fig trees are propagated from bush cuttings in the vicinity.  Produce is organically grown and the carbon footprint greatly reduced by green farming practices and elimination of need for transport.  Fruit scraps are used to re-fertilize the soil for next planting.   Fruits and vegetables not used to feed the chimps are sold to raise further funds for the sanctuary.

The volunteer program at Chimfunshi has grown steadily with over 1,300 volunteer hours accumulated in 2012 alone; and a continued focus on new innovations and ideas for long term sustainability.

GeoVisions

Conversation Corps Argentina

Travel for less.  The program is designed to provide plenty of time to experience the Argentinean culture. Do you want to learn Spanish or brush up on your language skills?  If available near your placement, GeoVisions will provide assistance in identifying suitable language lessons. Language classes are optional and at your additional expense. Conversation Corps volunteers are typically placed in the Cordoba region.

This program also focuses on cultural exchange and host families are not only excited to learn English but also love to share the characteristics of their country, culture and cuisine.

International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Sri Lanka Program

One of IVHQ’s newest program destinations, there are a wide range of volunteering projects in Sri Lanka, including Childcare, Teaching, Elderly Care, Temple Renovation, Medical and Turtle Conservation.

The IVHQ Sri Lanka volunteer program is based in the sacred city of Kandy, with projects based in and around the city. The Turtle Conservation project is based in Ambalangoda. Through the renovation of Buddhist temples, this project offers a unique opportunity for volunteers to learn about manual Sri Lankan construction methods, without the aid of machinery.

Volunteers on the Renovation project also have the opportunity to gain a greater appreciation of the Sri Lankan culture through interacting with villagers and children, to whom the temples hold great significance. Volunteer efforts will be focused on repainting and cleaning the temples, assisting with the construction of temples and helping the temples establish community centers for the youth of the village.

Rustic Pathways

Floating Village Service in Cambodia

Volunteers begin their trip exploring the remnants of Cambodia's turbulent past with a trip to the S-21 Genocide Museum and the infamous Killing Fields. This interactive morning introduces participants to the country's complex history and gives a solid cultural and historical base before journeying deep into the countryside. After lunch we'll hop in our private vans and head north to the town of Battambang where we will depart for life on the water and family.

Hop aboard Rustic Pathways' own Cambodian Riverboat and spend the week traveling on an amazing stretch of water that runs from the town of Battambang, along the great Tonle Sap Lake, all the way to Siem Reap. This is one wild ride through the heart of Cambodia. Prepare to witness extreme poverty and tremendous joy as our boat shows up in these rarely visited floating villages.

While the Cambodians that live on the rivers are able to catch enough food to survive, the children that grow up in these communities often have no access to toys, materials or outside stimulus. When our brightly colored boat comes through kids quickly spread the word that we're in town. Invite them aboard and play some games, blend up some fruit shakes, get the karaoke machine going, organize art classes and English workshops, and at the end of each stop give away the pencils, pens, paper and crayons that they've been using.

UBELONG

Volunteer in Morocco

Rabat, which means "fortified palace" in Arabic, is the capital and third largest city of Morocco. It sits on the Atlantic Ocean and Bou Regreg River, and on the opposite shore of the city of Sale. Rabat is Morocco's Royal City – it is the seat of the Royal Family – and is known as the “Washington of North Africa”, because of its green parks, wide boulevards, monuments, embassies and government buildings. Rabat exudes the richness of Moroccan culture in a calm and refined manner. Its medina is well preserved, and its array of small businesses ranging from coffee shops to leather merchants to vegetable stands impressive. Rabat's newer neighborhoods are also welcoming and highlight the country's modernization.

However, Rabat is plagued by Morocco’s striking economic disparity between the poor and rich. Unemployment is an issue, especially for the dissatisfied young. Social services like education and healthcare are also lacking for the poorest, and for them there is little hope of breaking the poverty cycle. In Rabat there are numerous opportunities available to you, including working with local women, teaching and caring for children.

**This post is brought to you by this month's GoAbroad Blog Sponsor, StudentUniverse . Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Have you been following GoAbroad's travels in the GoAbroad Bus around the country?

Throughout 2012 and into 2013, GoAbroad.com has visited a variety of international education offices and university campuses, and participated in numerous study abroad fairs, bringing a wealth of meaningful travel resources direct to students' fingertips!

We are now pleased to showcase the results of these efforts in the "GoAbroad Across America" Infographic.  

GoAbroad Across America 2012: 

Click here to view the GoAbroad Across America Infographic in detail!

As the leading website for meaningful travel, GoAbroad has been providing a resource for US based students, participants, and those seeking adventure for over fifteen years. The map in the infographic above shows search volume on GoAbroad.com based on an individual's current location. Where does your state rank? (Don't see your state? Not to worry! We have many more places to visit over the coming year. Stay tuned for details!)

Whether students are interested in volunteering abroad, study abroad, or internships abroad, GoAbroad is dedicated to matching individuals to thousands of international opportunities through the Online Advisor Tool and by having GoAbroad representatives on campus to chat in person with students. We can't wait to visit even more campuses to help make YOUR travel dreams a reality!

The "GoAbroad Across America" Infographic also showcases where and how GoAbroad.com  influences the major international education sectors. If you've ever wondered how GoAbroad connects with users through our social media channels, or how many real world connections GoAbroad makes, now is your chance.

Through these efforts and more, GoAbroad.com is able to better connect with prospective participants, and continues to influence students, young adults, and professionals to enhance themselves through international experiences.

Interested to learn more about GoAbroad's history? Click here to see a timeline of GoAbroad over the last fifteen years!

The GoAbroad Team pleased to bring you the 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards Finalists!  Today we celebrate and recognize the Innovative New Program Study Abroad Finalists.

We received many wonderful nominations and the selection committee has chosen five finalists, listed here in alphabetical order. Throughout the month of May 2013, GoAbroad will highlight the finalists in each of the GoAbroad Innovation Award categories! Winners for each category will be announced during the GoAbroad Reception during the Annual NAFSA Conference & Expo.

Congratulations to the 2013 Innovative New Program Study Abroad Finalists!

Antioch University Education Abroad

Community Development in Cameroon Program

Antioch Education Abroad (AEA) of Antioch University, in partnership with the University of Buea (UB) in Cameroon developed a semester-long study abroad program – “Community Development in Cameroon.” First offered in Spring 2012, this is a thematic program with two key innovative elements: direct-enrollment and integrated service learning. Students are immersed in the theme of community development through a uniquely-designed seminar course, service learning, and direct enrollment into thematically-related UB courses.

The program is anchored by the Community Development Seminar, co-designed and co-taught by the Program’s Lead Faculty Member (a UB professor) and the Program’s Academic Coordinator at AEA. In this Seminar, students explore the theoretical perspectives of community development and the initiatives that are taking place in Cameroon. Sustainable community development is central in the curriculum and focuses on projects that benefit the current population without adverse cultural, economic, or environmental impacts on future generations.

The curriculum is fleshed out by the students’ selection of courses from regular UB offerings, including Community Health Practice; Environmental Economics; Women and Social Policy; and Local Government. The focused list of direct-enrollment courses allows for academic oversight by AEA, continuity in the program theme, and students’ full immersion.

An integral component of the Seminar is the service learning experience. Throughout the semester, students spend at least five hours per week volunteering with an organization working on community development or outreach in Buea. The service learning allows students to pair academic learning with hands-on practical experience, providing an invaluable opportunity to learn from and contribute to the local community, while exploring future career paths.

Colorado Mountain College

Cuban Revolution in the 21st Century Program

I became aware of the new regulations for academic travel to Cuba at the 2011 NAFSA conference in Vancouver, Canada. I returned to my institution (Colorado Mountain College) determined to find an instructor willing to put together a trip.

Mr. Gumbrecht was already far along in his planning, and had apparently also been waiting for the opportunity. He put together a trip with considerable difficulty, and took 20+ students to Cuba in early 2013.

Colorado Mountain College is a community college located in predominantly white, upper-class ski-resort communities. There was and is no incentive for instructors to put in the extra work to design, organize, and seek approval for a study abroad program, and there is shockingly little "organic" demand for such programs.

Additionally there was of course resistance to sending "our" students to Cuba, based on political beliefs (but masked as economic, educational, or risk-management concerns). Bob never wavered, and brought the program to fruition in spite of personal attacks and resistance even from his own campus Dean. His efforts have allowed 20+ American community college students to glimpse the real world outside of the US media hologram, probably changing their lives for the better forever.

Semester at Sea

Unreasonable at Sea Program

Semester at Sea, in partnership with the Unreasonable Institute, has launched the “Unreasonable at Sea” project on the Spring 2013 voyage. Unreasonable at Sea is an international accelerator for tech entrepreneurs that will enable Semester at Sea students to study entrepreneurship while tackling the world’s most pressing issues with those who are actually doing the work. Participants will have the opportunity to sail, work, and learn from some of the world’s most renowned innovators and mentors.

SIT Study Abroad

Morocco: Field Studies in Journalism and New Media Program

Since its launch in the spring of 2012, SIT’s Morocco: Field Studies in Journalism and New Media program has provided students with on-the-ground field experience in journalism. In its short tenure, SIT students on the program have had their work published in major media outlets such as The New York Times, GlobalPost, Outside Magazine, and Runner’s World.

This study abroad program provides students a unique opportunity to enhance their professional reporting skills under the supervision of veteran journalists. Based in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, students engage in ongoing reporting assignments, team reporting, and peer editing to create the feel of a working newsroom. Instruction accommodates work in students’ preferred media format – print, video, audio, photography, and/or multimedia. Students learn from leading Moroccan scholars and academics about all aspects of Moroccan society, politics, and cultures.

The focus of the program is on gathering, analyzing, and crafting a major feature story, which has the possibility of being placed in a US media outlet. The program briefly reviews the basics of doing journalism but is primarily an opportunity for students to practice doing journalism in the field in a different cultural context. Student feature stories—produced during the program’s Independent Study period—are considered for publication (print, broadcast, or online) under the student’s byline.

The program is being run in partnership with Mary Stucky, co-founder of and lead journalist at Round Earth Media, one of the most successful and highly respected news organizations in media. Mary Stucky has vast experience mentoring young, independent reporters. SIT students receive hands-on mentorship from Round Earth Media reporters, as well as prominent Moroccan journalists.

University of South Carolina

International Perspectives on Higher Education Faculty-Staff Study Abroad Program

In support of the University’s strategic plan, USC Study Abroad launched the International Perspectives on Higher Education faculty/staff study abroad program.  Eleven faculty, staff and administrators took part in a week-long program that included guest lectures and visits to study abroad sites in Spain and France.  Participants were charged with developing follow-on projects that would allow them to bring their experiences back to campus.

“My goal was to provide participants with the opportunity to live the student study abroad experience, to be a part of a faculty-led program themselves, and to see where students live, go to class, and intern.  We encouraged them to reflect on what they were experiencing, and challenged them to think about how it was impacting them personally and professionally.” - Jennifer Engel, program director.

As a result of the program:

• Three USC employees left the country for the first time.

• Multiple curriculum integration, course and program development projects were initiated.

• Academic advisors adjusted their advisement strategies to increase access and help students connect their coursework, international experiences and future careers.

**This post is brought to you by this month's GoAbroad Blog Sponsor, StudentUniverse . Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Help Wanted by photologue_np, on Flickr

The school year is over and you still don't have a job. Some of your friends are still finishing up final exams while others have already started full-time positions. But you're somewhere in between; no longer a student (technically) but not yet into your career. You're out there, floating, desperately trying to find that current of success that everyone else seems to be cruising down.

Well take a deep breath, friends; we've all been there. Instead of panicking, why not take advantage of this temporary career break? Use this time to do something for yourself before your life is taken over by a full-time job. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a gap year abroad!

Can't afford it? We saw this coming. That's why here at GoAbroad we've dedicated a section of our website to assisting you with finding jobs abroad. With more than 1,000 job opportunities listed on GoAbroad.com, you're sure to find something to pay for your time spent abroad.

Here are a few work abroad opportunities to get you started on your search:

Teach

Teaching abroad is becoming a popular way for travelers to explore without racking up travel expenses. If you're a native English speaker, you can teach English abroad. Teaching abroad jobs can be found all over the world. Since so many institutes from across the globe are hiring English teachers, hours, salary and requirements vary. If you want to earn more money and better your chances of finding a teaching abroad job, becoming certified in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is a good idea. You can become TEFL certified by enrolling in and completing a TEFL class. If you aren't concerned with the amount of money you make, teaching abroad programs that don't require TEFL certificates can be found.

Au Pair

Courtesy of Darek214, on Flickr

Like English teachers, Au Pairs are in demand and can find work in almost any country. For most programs, Au Pairs are required to be in good health, have at least a high school diploma and be able to pass a background check. Au Pairs are also usually required to be somewhere between the ages of 18 and 30. As an Au Pair, you would live with a host family and take on the responsibility of caring for the family's children while parents are at work. Your responsibilities may also include running errands and doing light housework. Like many jobs abroad, Au Pairs abroad usually earn enough money to pay for living expenses abroad and do a little traveling once the job ends.

Intern

Maybe you aren't interested in being an Au Pair, camp counselor or ranch hand; you'd rather continue to advance in the field you're passionate about. If this is the case, you could search for an internship abroad. The downside of internships abroad is that most are unpaid, and many actually require you to pay a fee that covers housing and meals. But don't let this stop you from applying for internships in other countries. When future hiring managers see that you had a business internship in Germany, it'll be hard for them to pass you up. If you're concerned about money, inquire about part-time employment opportunities before accepting an internship abroad.

Find a Career

Are you planning on living abroad for an extended period of time? If so, search GoAbroad for a  full-time, salaried position in your field. Use the drop-box to narrow down your options based on country and job type. Finding and applying for full-time jobs abroad can be a challenge, so if your heart is set on living in a certain country, you can use a job placement company to help you find work. These companies will find jobs for you to apply for and make sure that you have all of the necessary paperwork for living and working in that country. Using a company such as this requires a fee, but it also guarantees that you'll find a position that fits your interests and skill-sets. You can find different verified job placement companies on GoAbroad.com under jobs.

If you worked abroad, where would you want to go and what would you want to do? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Want to go abroad but feel overwhelmed by the options? Fill out this form and let us do some of the work for you! Tell us more about what you are interested in and when you want to go. We'll use this information to search our directory for programs that may interest you. Then we'll email you our findings!

**This post is brought to you by this month's GoAbroad Blog Sponsor, StudentUniverse . Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week:

• Blog of the Week: Ways of Wanderers
  It's Friday -- and time for GoAbroad's Blog of the Week! This week's selection is: Ways of Wanderers This week's Blog of the Week, Ways of Wanderers, comes to readers from travel blogger Jessica. The appetite she has for adventure is immediately clear with her philosophy to travel: "it's pure insanity not to try everything, experience everything, and do [...]
• Dreaming of Europe? Four Sights to Explore
  Dreaming of exploring Europe this summer and in need of ideas of destinations to explore? Today on GoAbroad, we bring you a guest post from Party Earth - where they describe four unique and interesting sights to explore throughout Europe. From the gorgeous views to admire at Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Italy to the energetic [...]
• 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards: Marketing & Social Media Finalists
  The GoAbroad Team pleased to bring you the 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards Finalists!  Today we celebrate and recognize the Innovation in Marketing and Social Media Finalists. We received many wonderful nominations and the selection committee has chosen five finalists, listed here in alphabetical order. Throughout the month of May 2013, GoAbroad will highlight the finalists in each of the [...]
• Five Tips to Save While Studying Abroad
  Today on GoAbroad we bring you a post from StudentUniverse featuring some easy ways to save while studying abroad. StudentUniverse is the largest student deals site in the U.S. They were founded as a student travel agency and launched their service in 2000, providing students all over the world with exclusive deals. Read on to learn [...]
• GoAbroad Weekly Digest: Saturday, 4 May 2013
  Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week: Do You Really Need a Co-signer For a Student Loan? Today on GoAbroad, we bring you the latest guest post from InternationalStudentLoan on how to decide if you should have a co-signer when applying for study abroad student loans!  What is the difference if you're studying [...]

It's Friday -- and time for GoAbroad's Blog of the Week! This week's selection is:

Ways of Wanderers

This week's Blog of the Week, Ways of Wanderers, comes to readers from travel blogger Jessica. The appetite she has for adventure is immediately clear with her philosophy to travel: "it's pure insanity not to try everything, experience everything, and do exactly what we want with our lives. Perhaps I’m speaking from youthful naivety, but I am convinced that people are capable of having everything they want simply by believing those things to be possible."  We love it already! Jessica invites readers to wander with her as she sets out to discover how to get the most out of traveling on a budget, and how to live as an expat anywhere in the world!

Why We Love It

As Jessica notes, the goal of Ways of Wanderers is to provide "inspiration and information to make traveling and relocation possible for anyone and everyone who has ever wanted to see the world" and we love that she is transparent about learning how to travel as she goes. It allows Ways of Wanderers to be a great resource for any type of traveler - whether you're new to living abroad as an expat or already a seasoned traveler. If you're looking to save on your own travels abroad, we think you'll also enjoy the advice Ways of Wanderers shares in regards to seeking out work and volunteer opportunities in a variety of global destinations. In Jessica's own words, "we are as much roaming expats as we are travelers." You won't here us contradicting that

Make sure to check out Ways of Wanderers for more fun practical advice, as well as candid reflections on travel, relationships and life abroad. Don't forget to also explore all the ways you can live and work abroad on GoAbroad.com!

Every week GoAbroad features an abroad-related blog as our selection for Blog of the Week. The featured blog has been chosen because it features interesting and well-written abroad or travel-related experiences. Do you know a blog you'd like to nominate for the GoAbroad Blog of the Week award? Get information on how to submit a nomination on the GoAbroad Blogger Programs page!

**This post is brought to you by this month's GoAbroad Blog Sponsor, StudentUniverse . Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Piazzale Michelangelo by Eric Molina, on Flickr

Dreaming of exploring Europe this summer and in need of ideas of destinations to explore? Today on GoAbroad, we bring you a guest post from Party Earth - where they describe four unique and interesting sights to explore throughout Europe. From the gorgeous views to admire at Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Italy to the energetic atmosphere of Las Ramblas in Barcelona, Spain, we're sure you'll enjoy all that these destinations have to offer! Let us know which your favorite from this list is in the comments below.

Europe is a continent sized adventure land, mesmerizing idealistic tourists with the promise of history, romance, and memories to last a lifetime. With so many enticing options, planning your trip across the pond can be overwhelming. Here are a few places that are sure to captivate your adventurous spirit and exceed your expectations for the ultimate European vacation!

Vondelpark

Amsterdam

Vondelpark, Amsterdam, courtesy of Party Earth

Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, Vondelpark is the city’s largest green space, boasting a bike trail, multiple ponds, four restaurants, and stunning grassy fields. Thousands of locals, tourists, and students flock to Vondelpark daily, soaking up the sun’s heat in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Groups of friends are always seen playing soccer on the grassy landscape or riding bikes around the park’s outer path. During your European adventure, Vondelpark should definitely be on your list of things to do in Amsterdam.

Piazzale Michelangelo

Florence

Perched upon a hill overlooking the entire Florentine valley, Piazzale Michelangelo is one of Florence’s most unique and beautiful squares because of its overarching view. Although the square is located a bit outside the city’s center, about a 10 minute cab drive, it is the perfect location to relax with friends over a bottle of wine while admiring the Florentine landscape. The panorama is especially breathtaking just before sunset, when guests see Florence dazzling in lights. Though Piazzale Michelangelo is mainly a tourist hub, with just a few locals, it is definitely one of the most spectacular places to visit Florence.

Las Ramblas

Barcelona

There are hundreds of things to do in Barcelona, but for an amazingly energetic atmosphere and cultural vibe, you can’t miss out on Las Ramblas, one of the most captivating streets in the city. It is not only a beautiful avenue, outlined with towering trees and ornate buildings, but a popular shopping quarter. Local and internationally known shops and stores, like Zara, line the outskirts of Las Ramblas, which is always filled with locals, tourists, and those simply out for a stroll. One of the key attractions on Las Ramblas is La Boqueria, an outdoor market offering specialty foods, meats, seafood, and desserts. After spending a day of shopping on Las Ramblas, La Boqueria is the perfect location to rejuvenate during lunch and experience the local culture.

Hofbräuhaus

Munich

Hofbrauhaus, Munich, courtesy of Party Earth

A signature to Bavarian culture is the beer and Hofbräuhaus is a historic landmark in Munich combining this German tradition with bratwurst, pretzels, and good company. The moment you step into the doors of Hofbräuhaus, sounds of a Bavarian band and guests singing national songs ring through your ears. The ceiling is adorned with elaborate paintings of flowers while waitresses, donning traditional Bavarian dress, weave through the crowds selling giant pretzels to patrons. A “come as you are” mentality fills the atmosphere of Hofbräuhaus. Rather than being seated by a waitress, guests are welcome to sit at any one of Hofbräuhaus’ long tables, fostering a friendly environment of mutiple nationalities. For things to do in Munich, Hofbräuhaus should definitely be at the top of your list.

The GoAbroad Team pleased to bring you the 2013 GoAbroad Innovation Awards Finalists!  Today we celebrate and recognize the Innovation in Marketing and Social Media Finalists.

We received many wonderful nominations and the selection committee has chosen five finalists, listed here in alphabetical order. Throughout the month of May 2013, GoAbroad will highlight the finalists in each of the GoAbroad Innovation Award categories! Winners for each category will be announced during the GoAbroad Reception during the Annual NAFSA Conference & Expo.

Congratulations to the 2013 Innovation in Marketing & Social Media Finalists!

EF Education First

EF College Study Tours Guidebook

EF College Study Tour's new Guidebook design was conceived to do what no other program provider’s brochure does today: match the right program to the right educator (or institution) through a dynamic, individualized experience.

The experience was designed on the basis of end-to-end support- we wouldn’t reject the idea that a partnership can start as early as when an educator looks at a print brochure. And it was modeled with a question: “What would a print brochure be like if it behaved like a digital piece?”  The answer was a responsive design that includes expert local knowledge and industry leader quotes, living iconography and program attribution, “featured” editorial spreads, a flip-out program legend that is accessible no matter where you are in the Guidebook and [most importantly] a table of contents that offers multiple perspectives on individual programs, allowing the reader to find the one that’s right for them.

And whether it’s through the flex-grid layout of the program pages (that pack in just enough detail to help educators and administrators alike prepare for richer conversations with us), or whether it’s the inspiring world-class copy and photography, one thing is for sure: the new Guidebook is a product of the whole study abroad industry collaborating. We spoke to clients in our office, talked to industry colleagues at NAFSA regionals, brought in our expert local guides from overseas and even sent our own creative staff abroad to collect iconic imagery where they learned why it is that we do what we do. The world becomes richer when we can show someone what it’s like out there and we think the new Guidebook puts the globe at educators’ fingertips.

Purdue University

Study Abroad Storytellers

Study Abroad Storytellers was an open-mic event that brought returned students together with an audience of prospective participants.  This event, partnered with the Purdue Student Union Board, took place during International Education Week.  The objective was to provide a casual venue for students to hear about adventures had abroad, thus being inspired to seek their own.

Domestic returnees, international & exchange students, as well as faculty program-leaders were invited to take the stage to tell a 2-5 minute tale.  Some stories were hilarious, while others were thought-provoking; all were entertaining.  Our Union Commons played host and free coffee was provided.  The event was heavily promoted, but as with any open-mic, there was concern over participation.  That faded fast as a queue of enthusiastic storytellers grew throughout the evening.  Quite a few shared more than one.  Some came with their stories rehearsed.  Others just happen to be studying near-by and jumped at the chance to join-in.  As past participants bonded over similar experience we practically had a Re-Entry workshop on our hands.

The event allowed us to market study abroad in a more personal way.  By sharing stories about cultural faux pas and aha! moments, we painted pictures of what international education can truly be about.  This endeavor succeeded in a way no publication, or more technical marketing campaign has.  Through simple stories, connections were made and a thirst for meaningful travel was ignited.  For the storytellers, it was strengthened through reflection and self-evaluation.  Shortly after the final tale was told, many more were shared at the pub down the street.

Through this effort, a new excitement for studying abroad was generated on the Purdue campus.  Sometimes a basic idea can end up being the most innovative of all!

Study Abroad Spotlight

Study Abroad Spotlight Platform

Since its launch last October, Study Abroad Spotlight has filled a previous void within the industry by bringing students, parents, and education abroad professionals together through an innovative marketing and social media campaign.

Study Abroad Spotlight offers students a free forum to share their stories with their peers from across the country. We invite students who have studied all over the world (and through any program imaginable!) to reflect on their time abroad, answer a few questions, and inspire someone else to study abroad by sharing their Spotlight.  This also provides a platform for study abroad alumni to showcase their experience abroad to future employers by including a link to their spotlight on their resumes.

Parents can also submit their own Spotlights to reassure other parents that studying abroad is an invaluable experience for one’s son or daughter. And if that wasn’t enough, we also encourage education abroad professionals to share their love for the field by submitting their own Spotlights.

Study Abroad Spotlight has integrated its blog, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn to communicate with prospective study abroad students, study abroad alumni, and even those who just simply have a love for overseas travel and study.  Study Abroad Spotlight’s Director of Spotlighting, Sparky the Spotlight, even has his own eNewsletter to share his latest and greatest news on all things study abroad.

Study Abroad Spotlight recently celebrated their 100th Spotlight submission – quite a feat for a website that started as an idea and has grown into a game-changer in the world of study abroad.  Sparky is proud of his team and their vision to connect with study abroad enthusiasts on a number of social media levels, and looks forward to the future growth and success of Study Abroad Spotlight.

University of South Florida EA Office

Spotlight on Education Abroad for Sophomores (SEAS)

At the University of South Florida we have identified a ‘sweet spot’ for study abroad that spans from the summer before sophomore year to the summer after sophomore year which allows students the greatest flexibility in course selection, accessibility to funding and time to be inspired by their experience and study abroad again.  Our university-wide Spotlight on Education Abroad for Sophomores (SEAS) Campaign kicked off in the Summer of 2012 and has since reached over 2,000 first and second year students.  A targeted marketing campaign was strategically implemented in partnership with the USF Offices of New Student Connections, Orientation, Housing and Residential Education, Transitional Advising as well as USF’s Living and Learning Communities (LLCs).

The USF World Education Abroad (EA) Office staff, with the help of 50+ study abroad alumni GloBull Ambassadors, incorporated SEAS into our weekly ‘Getting Started’ sessions and annual outreach events as well as developed a portfolio of SEAS specific programming focused on first and second year students, such as our LLCs SEAS the World Nights and SEAS First Year Experience curriculum.  In the eight months the campaign has been in place we’ve already seen a significant increase in study abroad participation by second year students from sophomores making up 5.8% of overall enrollment in Spring 2012 to 15.4% during Spring 2013.  While it is too early to provide data for Summer 2013, preliminary analysis indicates that this trend will continue resulting in significant growth of participating sophomores for the academic year.

We believe the strength of this program is its simplicity, capitalization on strategic student affairs partnership and emphasis on in-person peer-to-peer engagement.  In the age of social media marketing, we believe that our SEAS initiatives suggests that there is still room for innovation in a print-driven recruitment campaign when it’s accompanied by intentional face-to-face programming.

WeHostels

Before I Die Video Campaign

The Before I Die video campaign has inspired hundreds of people who want to realize their travel dreams. By asking travelers to share their dream trip, WeHostels has started a conversation in the travel community and pushed the dreamers to make their trip a reality. The video combined with a tweet stream of travelers' entries is a great innovation in marketing and social media.

**This post is brought to you by this month's GoAbroad Blog Sponsor, StudentUniverse . Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Train Travel by bortescristian, on Flickr

Today on GoAbroad we bring you a post from StudentUniverse featuring some easy ways to save while studying abroad. StudentUniverse is the largest student deals site in the U.S. They were founded as a student travel agency and launched their service in 2000, providing students all over the world with exclusive deals. Read on to learn more about the tips they have to offer!

Study abroad is more affordable than you think. Most times, you will find the exchange program is cheaper than your current school’s program as well as room and board. The real expense can be in your travels. No worries though! We have some 5 tips to keep you on a student budget.

1. Find a Cheap Flight

International flights can be the most expensive part of your trip. However, if you do your research you can find some amazing deals. Be flexible in your dates of travel and always check for student discounts.

2. Once You Are At Your Destination, Travel By Train!

It’s one of the cheapest forms of transportation. If you’re in Europe, purchase a Eurail pass and see any surrounding country at a price even a broke college student can afford.

3. Walk or Take a Bike to Get Around

Biking and walking is eco-friendly, allows you to take in more of your surroundings and, best of all, FREE! You study abroad to take in another culture. Get out there and take full advantage the cheapest way possible.

4. Part of Taking in Another Culture While Abroad is Through Food

But dining out every day adds up in your bank account. Try getting traditional ingredient at a local market and cook for yourself. Take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic dishes or Google it for free.

5. Seeing the Sites is Another Expense Easy to Add Up

However, many companies offer great discounts on tours and activities exclusively for students. Doing things in a group can also give you negotiation power for a discount. Alternatively, create your own tour by foot with a map.

It’s all about planning ahead and getting creative!

Save more the next time you travel by booking with StudentUniverse!

Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week:

• Do You Really Need a Co-signer For a Student Loan?
  Today on GoAbroad, we bring you the latest guest post from InternationalStudentLoan on how to decide if you should have a co-signer when applying for study abroad student loans!  What is the difference if you're studying outside the United States, or if you're an international student coming to the U.S.? Read on to learn what the best decision for [...]
• Announcing the NAFSA 2013 #TweetIEs
  Are you getting ready to head to the NAFSA 2013 conference in St. Louis? Are you also a fan and/or avid user of social media? Then consider attending the #NAFSA13 TweetUps that will be happening at the conference! These TweetUps will be kicking off on Tuesday, May 28, and conclude with the #TweetIEs TweetUp Awards [...]
• Volunteering in the Philippines: A Trend on the Rise
  Volunteering in the Philippines is on the rise. Due to its geographic location; the Philippines has often been a nation that has failed to attract the same volume of volunteers as some of its South East Asian neighbors like Thailand or Vietnam. However despite being slightly off-the-beaten track, the number of volunteers now reaching Philippine [...]
• GoAbroad Weekly Digest: Saturday, 27 April 2013
  Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week: Adventure in a Day: Zagreb, Croatia Welcome to the Adventure in a Day series from GoAbroad! We have teamed up with Tina Kadoic, a videography freelancer from Croatia to bring you some original videos of different worldwide destinations! These videos walk you through a day in [...]

Classroom Work by Elmira College, on Flickr

Today on GoAbroad, we bring you the latest guest post from InternationalStudentLoan on how to decide if you should have a co-signer when applying for study abroad student loans!  What is the difference if you're studying outside the United States, or if you're an international student coming to the U.S.? Read on to learn what the best decision for you may be! 

Students who want to study outside their home country put many hours into finding the perfect school and preparing for their journey into a new culture. Completing applications, submitting letters of reference, confirming that credits will transfer and finding financial support are all top priority for students heading abroad for a semester or year. If you are included in this bunch and have decided that you need a private student loan to help fill the financial gap, you might be trying to find the answer to whether or not you need a co-signer for a private student loan. The answer: it depends.

There are a few different categories that students who are studying outside of their home country fall into. Find which category fits your situation and discover if you will need a co-signer to receive a private student loan:

If You Are a US Citizen/Permanent Resident Studying Outside Your Home Country:

You may be directly enrolled in a school outside the US or enrolled in a school inside the US that you are studying abroad through. Either way, if you are a US citizen or resident, you do not need a co-signer if you have a long line of good credit history. However, having a co-signer is still a good idea as it can increase the likelihood that you will qualify for a loan, and can help you receive the best interest rate possible if a loan is granted.

If You Are Not a US Citizen/Permanent Resident Studying In the United States:

If you are directly enrolled in a school inside the US, you will need a co-signer to receive a private student loan. Your co-signer must be a US citizen or permanent resident with good credit history who has lived inside the US for the past two years.

Something to keep in mind is your co-signer will be just as responsible for the loan as you are and it’s best that they understand the responsibility that comes along with being your co-signer before making the commitment.

Click here to use the Study Abroad Loan Comparison Tool! 

Are you getting ready to head to the NAFSA 2013 conference in St. Louis? Are you also a fan and/or avid user of social media? Then consider attending the #NAFSA13 TweetUps that will be happening at the conference!

These TweetUps will be kicking off on Tuesday, May 28, and conclude with the #TweetIEs TweetUp Awards on Friday, May 31. GoAbroad is thrilled to be co-hosting these TweetUps alongside Mandy's Mashups, Academic Programs International, NAFSA: Association of International Educators, and GoMedia.

What is a TweetUp?

A TweetUp is an event that brings together people who use Twitter, allowing them to connect and get to know each other in person. The TweetUps at NAFSA present a great chance to connect with other international educators who you may only know through social media, as well as learn and share more than you can with 140 characters at a time

Even if you aren't on Twitter, these TweetUps are also an opportunity to learn about the platform and how to utilize it. We encourage attendance from anyone interested in learning more!

Attend & Win Prizes!

Did we also mention that there is the chance to compete for prize giveaways when you attend the NAFSA 2013 TweetUps? Check out what the theme is for each TweetUp, and what you have the chance to win!

The First TweetUp - Best Social Media T-Shirt

WHEN: Tuesday, May 28 @ 12:30 - 1:00PM CST

WHERE: America's Center Washington Lobby West

The first TweetUp will kick off on Tuesday, May 28 with the chance to show off your best social media t-shirt. Don't be afraid to let your inner social media nerd shine, as this is your chance to bring your 'A' game!

The hosts of the NAFSA 2013 TweetUps will determine the winners of the best t-shirts, and the winners will receive a surprise gift from one of the prize sponsors below!

1. Abroad101
2. Academic Programs International (API)
3. AIFS
4. CEA Study Abroad
5. Chronicle of Higher Education
6. CIS Abroad
7. Cultural Vistas
8. FundMyTravel
9. GlobaLinks Learning Abroad
10. GoAbroad.com
11. Go Overseas
12. GoMedia
13. HootSuite
14. Mandy’s Mashups
15. Melibee Global
16. The PIE News
17. STA Travel
18. Study Abroad Store
19. Terra Dotta

The Second TweetUp - The #TweetIEs Awards

WHEN: Friday, May 31 @ 10:30 - 11:00AM CST

WHERE: America's Center Washington Lobby West

To wrap up the conference, the hosts of the NAFSA 2013 TweetUps are thrilled to bring you the #TweetIEs Awards! In addition to receiving a goodie bag for attending, the #TweetIEs Award winners will be presented. Winners will recieve a surprise gift from the sponsors mentioned above.

The categories which will be presented and awarded during the #TweetIEs include:

• Best #NAFSA13 Tweet
• Best Video or Vine
• Most Creative #IamIE
• Most Creative Exhibit Photo
• Most Creative Session Photo
• Most Creative Reception Photo
• Wittiest Tweet
• Best booth giveaway (Instagram photo)

To have your tweets considered for these categories, you can begin tweeting them during the first TweetUp on Tuesday.

Keep in mind that you MUST use the #NAFSA13 hashtag in your tweets to be considered for any of these award categories.

We hope to see you at the NAFSA 2013 Annual Conference & Expo, as well as at the TweetUps! If you have any questions about the NAFSA 2013 TweetUps, please contact Tiffany Harrison, by email: moc.daorbaognull@nosirrah.ynaffit or Kayla Patterson, by email: moc.daorbaognull@nosrettap.alyak

Click to download this infographic about volunteering in the Philippines

Volunteering in the Philippines is on the rise.

Due to its geographic location; the Philippines has often been a nation that has failed to attract the same volume of volunteers as some of its South East Asian neighbors like Thailand or Vietnam. However despite being slightly off-the-beaten track, the number of volunteers now reaching Philippine shores is steadily on the increase.

A number of factors have contributed to this trend, including (but in no way limited to) an increase in Philippine government spending on its tourist industry, more accessible and affordable regional airfare options and a surge of activity and marketing efforts by coordinated between local NGO's and their international partners.

In particular, a GoAbroad.com study has highlighted that in the last three years there has been an approximate 32% increase in individuals participating in structured volunteer abroad projects.

On GoAbroad.com alone, the Volunteer Abroad in the Philippines Results Page received over 12,000 Page Views in 2012 whilst on a month to month basis, Google records approximately 5,000 searches related to volunteering in the Philippines.

The country's growing popularity isn't difficult to comprehend either; thanks to its hospitable and English speaking inhabitants, the Philippines excels as being a nation that is perfect for accommodating foreign volunteers.

Aside from this, the natural beauty, warm climate and ecological diversity of the Philippines - which boasts some of the worlds best diving spots is also an enticing attraction especially for individuals wanting to get involved with marine and rainforest conservation.

What are Volunteers Doing in the Philippines?

Despite some of the recent economic improvements; the Philippines continues to be a nation that faces numerous socioeconomic hardships as 1 in 3 of its citizens live beneath the poverty line making less than a dollar a day. As a result, access to basic healthcare, education and social welfare support continues to be a daily struggle for numerous Philippine families.

As volunteering increases, so to do the number of projects related to Public Health. In recent years the growth of Public Health Volunteering has dramatically increased as volunteer-related projects begin to focus on fundamental social issues such as basic human nutrition.

Some multifaceted volunteer organizations such as Volunteer for the Visayans have recently posted that approximately 58% of its volunteers now visit the Philippines to engage in public health programs; with its Nutrition Public Health Project leading the way as its most popular project.

"Our Nutrition Public Health Project has been progressively getting more and more popular since it was launched in 2009, we have a lot of international interest in the project and are beginning to formalize more academic partnerships with universities in Europe, the United States and Australia who want to get involved in this type of Public Health work" says Wimwim Canayong, Director of Volunteer for the Visayans.

Aside from this, Child Welfare Projects related to orphanage work and street children programs continue to be popular as local NGO's and government organizations attempt to address the issue of thousands of unwanted and abandoned children; many of whom face health, education and psychological problems.

As the Philippines also begins to move from a traditional agriculture based economy to an industrial one, the threat of damage and destruction to the fragile local ecosystem is also becoming more of a major concern. Programs coordinated by company's like Coral Cay which aim to promote marine and coastline conservation are also remaining strong.

Who is Volunteering in the Philippines?

Whilst countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have tended to lead the way with regards to volunteering in the Philippines; recent years have shown an increase in volunteering from regional neighbours such as Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Singapore. Aside from this the Philippines has begun to draw an increase in volunteers from other nationalities including the Middle East and Scandinavia.

Due to a combination of an overall industry trend and the strong attraction of Public Health and Child Welfare Projects, the Philippines continues to be a popular destination for solo female volunteers.

With a rich and vibrant culture, the Philippines looks set to continue to grow as a volunteer hot spot. For more information on volunteering in the Philippines check out GoAbroad.com's listings for volunteer abroad programs in the Philippines.

Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week:

• Adventure in a Day: Zagreb, Croatia
  Welcome to the Adventure in a Day series from GoAbroad! We have teamed up with Tina Kadoic, a videography freelancer from Croatia to bring you some original videos of different worldwide destinations! These videos walk you through a day in the life of a specific city, to give you a taste of you'll discover in your own [...]
• Where Music Meets Travel: An Interview with Brandon Phillips from The Architects
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• Spanish & Cultural Competency with Sol Education Abroad
  Today on GoAbroad we bring you an interview with Brent Hunter of Sol Education Abroad. Sol is a quality study abroad provider with programs in the Spanish-speaking world, and was founded by Esteban Lardone and Brent Hunter with some unique built-in commitments. GoAbroad recently caught up with Brent at his favorite neighborhood bar-b-q in Austin, and [...]
• GoAbroad Weekly Digest: Saturday, 20 April 2013
  Here's what we featured on the GoAbroad blog this past week: Why Choose a Volunteering Vacation Over a Standard Holiday? To vacation or volunteer, that is the question. Which is the better option and how do you decide where to go? Today on GoAbroad, we bring you a guest post from Holly Tennant of African Impact, where she [...]

Zagreb by Mario Fajt, on Flickr

Welcome to the Adventure in a Day series from GoAbroad! We have teamed up with Tina Kadoic, a videography freelancer from Croatia to bring you some original videos of different worldwide destinations! These videos walk you through a day in the life of a specific city, to give you a taste of you'll discover in your own adventures!

Today's Adventure In a Day introduces: Zagreb, Croatia. Tune into the the video below to see what it's all about and check out Tina's recommendations for the top five places to explore in Zagreb.

Top 5 Places to Explore in Zagreb

Wether it's a beautiful spring day or a white Christmass idyll you can never go wrong with these places!

1. Lake Jarun

My personal favorite and a hot spot for many tourists. It's a perfect place to catch some tan, take a walk by the river, throw some Sunday barbeque with friends, play sports or just rest on the beach or in the nearby caffe watching beautiful sunset painting the nature.

The lake is the location of the Jarun sports and leisure center, where people can row, paddle, sail, surf, swim, jog, bike, roller skate, and skateboard. Around the lake are many nightclubs and cafes.

2. Park Maksimir

More than one hundred bird species, preserved hundred-year-old oak forests, amazing ZOO, meadows, lakes and streams and miles of small paths for you to wander arround.

Park Maksimir is to Zagreb as Bois de Boulogne is to Paris, Tiergarten to Berlin or Regents Park to London so you simply can't go wrong with visiting this one.

3. Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

If you wanna know something about the history of Zagreb you just have to go to the Upper Town. 5 minute walk from the main square will take you to beautiful and historical views of old Zagreb.

You can go with some romance there, watching the city from up above with some street musician playing in the background.

4. Sljeme

The highest peak at 1,035m of a mountain Medvednica. The area of the park is 228.26 square kilometers and about 63% is covered with forest.

It's a place perfect for every time of the year. Hiking, skiing, biking, tracking, family gathering, adventures, resting your body and soul or drinking a great coffee while having the whole city on the palm of your hand.

5. Or Simply Have a Coffee!

That's what we usually do. Get dressed, meet up and go for a coffee or a snack. Simply come to the main square and look around you –in the  river of caffe bars you just have to be able to find your perfect spot and chill as never before! Try it, you might get addicted to it!

Tina Kadoic is a young and enthusiastic videography freelancer from Croatia. Mostly self-taught and with a screenwriting diploma from London she already has hundreds of successful projects and clients behind her.  Be sure to check out her YouTube channel and extended biography and video portfolio.

Brandon Phillips, of The Architects

Today on GoAbroad we bring you another interview with a musician who possesses a passion for travel. And not just travel, but online fundraising for meaningful travel experiences. See what GoAbroad Rep and Fund My Travel Director, Victoria Mita, has to offer readers today....

Still buzzing with excitement from the Frank Turner: Where Music Meets Travel piece, I was scrolling through his ‘tweet feed’ for some updates when the likes of something which, surely I could have only dreamed up, caught my eye. From one click to another, I discovered that another historically creative band, was sharing an Indiegogo campaign.

This was particularly interesting to me because I recently earned a position, directing another special, crowd-funding site, one specifically made for travel. My initial reaction question was, “What would an already well established band be creating an online fundraiser for?” I was so used to seeing individuals or organization groups make these things, not notable musicians...

Clicking right along, I soon figured out what they were doing and I was utterly inspired by their project’s individuality. Despite not knowing much of their music, I was immediately drawn into all of the updates, incentives and explanations on their campaign page. I quickly became a fan as I “got to know” the band and their project better. I donated a little something for the effort, as I appreciated the concept. Then I began following their social media channels for updates over the next month.

Concurrently, while I was doing more of my own research about online fundraising, I was amazed not only by the amount of times the band would post up about their campaign but also by how inclined I was to keep checking in and even to share their campaign out to my own network. By this point I was emotionally invested too. I really wanted to see them succeed! With two of my biggest passions joined, music and fundraising, I decided I had to talk to these guys...

The band I’ve been mysteriously referring to is The Architects, and lead vocalist, Brandon Phillips, kindly agreed to answer a few of our questions:

First and foremost, what made you guys think to use a crowdsourced funding site for your project, how did this all come about?

Brandon Phillips on stage

For starters, our project by the very nature of its scope seemed to demand some new channel for funding. Border Wars is a concept album and comic book that is delivered to fans in five episodes – each episode consisting of six or so songs packaged inside a full size comic. Thus, there is an intense amount of legwork involved in the pre-production of each episode – writing scripts, writing songs, illustrations, layout design, recording, mixing, mastering, etc.

It’s also considerably more complicated and expensive to manufacture and distribute than a regular CD or LP. When you tally all that up, there is a huge disincentive for a regular record label to want to be involved no matter how cool they think the product is. Distributors are actually unnerved by the fact that the episodes of our album are not going to be the same size and shape as all other albums.

If you think that sounds ridiculous, I agree with you and it’s been our wager that fans of the band, fans of punk rock and fans of comics will agree as well. Crowdsourcing the funding was something we really agonized over as a band. There are matters of ethics and matters of ego at stake. In the end I’m very glad we opted to give crowdsourcing a fair shake because it’s been not only really useful for us as an insurgency in a zombie-industry, but it’s also been really energizing to see people react in real time to updates and tweets and the like.

It seems like it would take up a lot of time to maintain the campaign so proactively. Does all of the updating, commentary and media uploading ever become a hassle? What motivates you to keep up such consistent efforts?

I won’t lie, it is a massive time-suck having to handle all the updates and social media and so on. That said, I definitely prefer spending a few hours a day on a campaign that is verifiably raising money toward our goal, than spend those same hours trying to get my admittedly unorthodox project onto the radar of some record label big wig who has an 85% probability of blowing me off for Lakers seats.

Your campaign is unique from those on the site I work with, because FundMyTravel was made for study abroad students, volunteers and other travelers. You have a project in the works, which your donors will get something from in the end. Do you have any ideas or suggestions about ways that travelers might make their pages more creative and interesting for donors, like yours?

I’m not sure what is and is not being done in that area but it seems to me that if contributors got either a printed or a PDF travelogue that included photos, journals, report cards, etc. that they might get more of a sense of ownership over the journey they are sponsoring. That is honestly the part of this that I have the most fun with as well as the part that was intended to be more fun for fans than your typical album  - the sense that everyone who is contributing feels more ownership of this album, this band, and this campaign, than the guy or gal who just marched into Wal-Mart and picked up the new Brad Paisley album.

That person probably already likes a song or two and they’ll for sure play those songs in the car or at home, but as for the rest of the album…who knows if they ever get around to really listening to it? Will they rave to their friends about it? Maybe so. I digress. The point is, when I was a kid the bands we loved were ours and if crowdfunding is the way to bring that kind of passion back to a hopelessly over-commercial and overexposed music business, then that’s what I want to do.

The Architects

What has been the biggest surprise for you about the experience of making and sharing this online campaign for the Border Wars Concept Album and Comic Book?

I was absolutely dumbfounded at how fast the support started pouring in. It was like walking up to the prettiest girl in school and kissing her, knowing full well that there may be a swift and hard knee to the groin in the immediate future, but instead she kissed back. Pure elation.

You’ve been quite successful with the project, with over 170 funders and reaching over half of your goal within a fairly short campaign length. It only just launched in March right? What do you think is the biggest contributing factor to this success?

It’s hard to say but, I’d like to think people are more willing to contribute because we are asking them to help us do something different.

What was the most challenging part of this campaigning process for you?

Getting over the initial trepidation that crowdfunding is like some kind of digital panhandle or grift. In hindsight I think a lot of people have that impression because there have been so many really obnoxious campaigns that seem to come with a sense of entitlement rather than a sense of ownership or collaboration or even a fair deal. Honestly, if all I were trying to fund was a CD in a jewel box, I’d probably still feel like a bit of a hack about it. The fact that we are doing something different gives us some latitude maybe.

What has been your favorite part about the Border Wars Concept Album project, what are you most excited about going forward?

I love that we are combining narrative, illustration and music in one thing and then releasing it episodically, so my favorite part may have been when it took hold that people understood what we were doing without having to hear some crazy long sales pitch. I’m really excited to see how people react to not just that first episode arriving in the mail or digitally, but also to the second and third episodes and so on. I’m dying to know how the story and the characters and the songs affect people.

Will there be much concert traveling and promotional touring in the works for you with the first Border Wars Album release? Do you enjoy being on the road and traveling?

There is almost nothing as satisfying or rewarding than touring. I adore the road and hopefully we will be out on it for a very long time with Border Wars.

And we will look forward to hearing more and seeing you out there!

For any travelers working on their own crowd-sourced campaigns, Brandon shared some amazing tips with us:

• Remember to do something different and dispel the notion of entitlement.
• Invest the time and effort to make your campaign especially yours.
• Be persistent and help your donors find a way to gain a sense of ownership in  your project.

To learn more about this project from The Architects, check out their campaign here. To see them live, visit their facebook page for tour updates here.

**This post is brought to you in part by this month's GoAbroad Blog partner, KCP International! Looking to study and improve your Japanese abroad? Be sure to check out KCP's programs in Tokyo!