International Student Track
Thursday, March 30, 2017
8:30 – 8:55 a.m.
International Student Track Welcome
Real III
Introduction:
Gastón Cantú
Director of Student Services
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
San Antonio, Texas
USA
Welcome:
Dr. Antonio R. Flores
President & CEO
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
San Antonio, Texas
USA
9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
International Student Track Opening Session: “Orientation to Studying Abroad – What to Expect”
Real III
Presenters:
Paula Solano
Director of International Relations & General Studies
Universidad Latinoamericana de Ciencia y Tecnología (ULACIT)
San José, San José
Costa Rica
Triana González
Director of International Engagement
Texas A&M International University
Laredo, Texas
USA
Dr. Sara Dumont
Executive Director, AU Abroad
American University
Washington, District of Columbia
USA
Abstract:
Studying abroad experiences can create anxiety for those participating in them for the first time. This workshop will highlight the different types of study abroad opportunities, from one-week to semester-long programs. Students will learn what to expect during their study abroad experiences and the differences between programs in Latin America, Europe and other continents.
10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
International Student Track Session: “The Importance of Study Abroad and International Exchange Opportunities”
Real III
Presenters:
Dr. Alejandra Barahona
Director, Center for International Programs and Sustainability Studies
Universidad Veritas
San José, San José
Costa Rica
Andrés Jaime
Director, Center for Career Development and Testing
Our Lady of the Lake University
San Antonio, Texas
USA
Andrés Morera
Director of International Admissions
Universidad Latina de Costa Rica
San Pedro, San José
Costa Rica
Jeff Longwell
Professor
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, New Mexico
USA
Abstract:
During this session, panelists will highlight the importance of integrating study abroad experiences into a student’s academic and educational plans. Presenters will underline how these experiences can help expand a student’s perspective and develop unique problem-solving skills that will help broaden a student’s outlook on the world. Most importantly, students will learn how studying abroad can help them become competitive as they enter, what has now become, a global workforce.
11:50 a.m. – 12:50 p.m.
International Student Track Session: “How to Finance Your Study Abroad Experience”
Real III
Presenters:
Viviana Sánchez
Coordinator of the International Finance Department
Universidad de Iberoamérica
San José, San José
Costa Rica
Daneen Johnson
Community Engagement Coordinator
Diversity Abroad
Berkeley, California
USA
Dr. Lunden MacDonald
Director, First–Year Success Program
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, Colorado
USA
Abstract:
One of the biggest barriers to participation in study abroad programs is financing. This presentation will provide concrete strategies that students can use to find financing options for their study abroad experiences. Presenters will share the most common options for financing study abroad experiences.
2:45 – 3:45 p.m.
International Student Track Session: “Credit Transfer – What You Need to Know”
Real III
Presenters:
Alan Earhart
Director of International Programs and Partnerships
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
USA
Dr. Eliseo “Cheo” Torres
Vice President for Student Affairs
The University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico
USA
Dr. Consuelo Stebbins
Assistant Vice President Emerita and Director of Latin American Studies
University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
USA
Abstract:
Study abroad experiences can range from social service projects to curriculum-based programs. This presentation will focus on what students need to know about credit transfer before they enroll in a study abroad program. Presenters will outline exactly what questions students’ need to ask about the courses they will be taking abroad in order to ensure that these courses will count towards their degree.
3:45 – 4:45 p.m.
Costa Rica and U.S. Student Roundtable Discussion and Networking Session.
(Refreshments will be provided.)
Real III
Bilingual Facilitators:
Gastón Cantú
Director of Student Services
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
San Antonio, Texas
USA
Andrés Jaime
Director, Center for Career Development and Testing
Our Lady of the Lake University
San Antonio, Texas
USA
Abstract:
This session will offer an opportunity for U.S. students attending the conference to meet with Costa Rican students for a networking session. Bilingual facilitators will help students interact with each other to share ideas, exchange viewpoints, and discuss international collaboration.
Friday, March 31, 2017
8:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Cohort A to visit to Universidad de Iberoamérica
Cohort B to visit to Universidad Veritas
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Cohort A to visit to Universidad Latinoamericana de Ciencia y Tecnología (ULACIT)
Cohort B to visit to Universidad Latina de Costa Rica