DARE: Desert Academic Retreat Open for Applications

• January 7th, 2026
• in International Main

Applications are open for Ben-Gurion University of the Negev’s DARE: Desert Academic Retreat. This is an opportunity for senior faculty to immerse themselves in the desert while advancing their research and participating in cultural exchange and collaborative opportunities with BGU’s renowned faculty.

Deadline for application: Feb 15, 2026.

For eligibility, program information and dates, visit https://www.bgu.ac.il/en/u/vps/international/dare/.

DARE_digital flyer

Home Away From Home: Community at International Coffee Hour

• January 6th, 2026
• in Capstone International Services International Main

Home Away From Home: Community at International Coffee Hour

The University of Alabama Student Center is always busy at lunchtime, but if you walk by at midday on a Friday, you’ll see room 2100 is nearly packed. What is it — free football tickets? An unannounced appearance from Taylor Swift?

None of the above. The big draw is the International Coffee Hour.

“International Coffee Hour is really our premier event that our office puts on,” said Mitchell Wolf, international programs coordinator for the Office of International Student and Scholar Success.

“We really want to facilitate intercultural learning on campus,” Wolf said. “We want to expose University of Alabama students to what the world is like out there through meeting international students, to exposing them to culture, while also supporting our international students that are here far away from home.”

Launched as a small event more than two decades ago, International Coffee Hour now attracts close to 300 students every week – about 100 more than last year’s average.

Each week, the coffee hour salutes a different country. ISSS usually draws from the top ten countries where UA’s international students come from, plus a mix of other nations. A light lunch prepared by Bama Dining reflects the cuisine of that week’s country. This spring the global hopscotch includes Bangladesh, Nigeria, Canada and seven other nations.

Beyond the food, International Coffee Hour is like a town square, a place where people from Alabama, the rest of the U.S. and dozens of countries meet and build friendships. That’s what happened to Lucy Spear, a Fayette native who serves as a peer advisor for international students.

“I think there’s something so powerful about having a conversation with someone who grew up differently from you. It helps you understand people more,” Spear said. “Manogya Khanal, she’s one of my best friends, and she’s from Nepal. Without coffee hour, I wouldn’t have met her.”

Khanal came to UA to study mechanical engineering and serves on the International Peer Advisory Council board. She said she loves what International Coffee Hour brings to the campus.

“I think coffee hour, in its core, stands for the exchange of culture and diverse groups of people coming together, asking questions or sharing their knowledge, where you can just talk about your shared curiosity…I can teach you so many things about my country, and you can teach me so many things about living in the States,” Khanal said.

During the coffee hour, room 2100 is filled with students’ voices. The conversations can be about almost anything: big things, such as global current events, and small things, like weekend plans, classes, memes and jokes.

“I think that’s one thing I like about coffee hour: it could be as deep as you want it to be. You can get as much as you want from it,” Spear said.

Each of the coffee hour events feels like a home away from home, Khanal said, because the conversations and camaraderie give her a chance to bond with students whose homes span the country and the world.

“Very lasting and meaningful relationships that I hope that I can carry on after college as well,” she said.

The International Coffee Hour’s future may include a bigger space and more cultural engagement, such as dance presentations or informal talks, Wolf said. But the bottom line will stay the same: getting people from different places into the same room to learn, discover and form strong, long-lasting bonds.

“We’ve got something good here at The University of Alabama and something that we should be proud of,” he said. “And we want more and more students to be able to experience it.”

The International Coffee Hour’s spring semester launches Friday, Jan. 16. The hour is held most Fridays in the UA Student Center, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information, including a schedule of the countries featured this year, can be found at UA’s Capstone International Center website.

Three ELI Students and Their Reasons for Studying English

• November 6th, 2025
• in English Language Institute International Main

“UA is cool. It’s quite different from German universities because the campus is like a small town, and everyone is proud of it,” assessed ELI student, Dominik Souard, who is employed in an IT consulting firm near Frankfurt. Although he uses English documents every day in his job, he wanted to develop his fluency. Dominik searched for a large, traditional, and dynamic campus with college sports and finally chose the ELI because it gave him the opportunity to live on campus during his four-week program. “Americans are open people and easy to get in touch with,” he concluded. 
 
 

On the other hand, Jieun Choi came to UA from Korea with her husband, who is working in the English Department. She currently has conditional admission for a Doctor of Musical Arts degree and is studying to satisfy the English proficiency requirement. In addition to developing her English, Jieun plays violin in the Tuscaloosa Symphony and teaches Korean in the Critical Languages Program. She appreciates Tuscaloosa because it is a “safe and clean city with a good environment for study.” 
 
 

Improving her professional profile is Diana Gil Bora’s purpose in studying English. She is from an Indigenous community in Colombia and hopes to work in The National University on a campus located in the Amazon region. She noted, “I believe in education to resolve issues in my community. I want to guide young people in educational processes such as admission to the university, finding scholarships and studying abroad.”  She is sure that her own experience at the ELI will help her do that.

Register for the Conference on Global Learning 2025 | Online

• October 21st, 2025
• in COIL International Main

November 12-14, 2025 | Online | Visit the conference website for more information and registration!

The AAC&U Conference on Global Learning explores practical and theoretical approaches to global learning at the course, departmental, and institutional levels. This conference includes opportunities to examine tactics and strategies that make global learning experiences more inclusive.

• Click here for complete registration pricing.
• Need more information about the meeting? Meeting Details
• Questions about registration? Contact registration@aacu.org.
• To register three or more individuals from the same campus as a team, please contact the conference registration office at registration@aacu.org.
• Problems with login or creating an account? Contact support@aacu.org.
• If you are from a Low and Middle Income Country, you are eligible for a reduced rate. Please contact registration@aacu.org if you have questions.

By registering, I agree to the following conditions:

• Refunds will be provided for cancellations received in writing or via email to registration@aacu.org by October 15, 2025. A $125 processing fee will be deducted.
• No refunds will be made on any cancellations received after October 15, 2025.
• The Pay Later Option is NOT available after October 15, 2025. Any registrations with the Pay Later option submitted after October 15, 2025 will not be processed.
• Registrations are transferable within an institution at any time.
• My credit card will be charged for the correct (additional) registration rate if I select Team Registration, but am not part of a team of three or more individuals from the same campus.
• My name, title, and institution will be on the online meeting registration list that is available to all registrants. Email addresses or other contact information are not included. If you do not want your information included on this list, please contact our support team via e-mail registration@aacu.org.
• I understand that the AAC&U may record these virtual sessions, and by registering allow AAC&U permission to use these recordings.

Upon checkout, all registrants will receive a receipt for their registration. Please check your spam folder if the confirmation or invoice does not arrive in your inbox.

Beyond Borders: Thriving as an International Student at UA

• September 18th, 2025
• in Capstone International Services International Main

by Chinecherem Ezeihejafor | Higher Education Administration (PhD Student)

Arriving at The University of Alabama is an exciting milestone, but for international students, it can also bring unique challenges. From adjusting to a new academic system to navigating campus life, thriving at UA means more than just keeping up with coursework. It’s about building connections, prioritizing well-being, and creating your own Alabama story.

Finding Belonging

One of the most important steps in thriving as an international student is finding your place in the Crimson Tide community. Your perspective as an international student is a strength, so share it in class discussions, student organizations, and friendships. Belonging doesn’t mean choosing between your cultural identity and your UA home; it’s about embracing both.

Getting involved in multiple communities helps build a strong support network. Join the International Student Association, but also explore clubs, sports, or academic groups that align with your interests. And when opportunities come your way, either a football game, a study group, or even just coffee—say yes. Those small moments often lead to meaningful connections.

Taking Charge of Your Experience

Thriving at UA also means taking ownership of your journey: learn about campus resources before you need them, from the Writing Center to student services. Advocate for yourself by asking questions and seeking support when needed—professors and advisors want to help you succeed. And don’t forget to set healthy boundaries that balance your studies, social life, and personal needs.

Prioritizing Wellness

Adjusting to life at a new university can feel overwhelming at times. Homesickness, cultural differences, and visa stress are common, but you are not alone. UA’s Counseling Center offers support tailored for international students, and reaching out is a sign of strength. You can also connect with other international students to share how they are navigating immigration plans, processes, and policy changes, building both practical knowledge and a supportive community.

Wellness also means staying active and engaged. The Student Recreation Center offers fitness classes, sports, and activities that help students connect with one another. Many student organizations also plan recreational events for their members. Don’t overlook the value of taking time out with peers, whether that’s sharing a cultural meal, joining a group activity, or enjoying an occasional hangout when your schedule allows. These moments of connection can be just as important as academics in creating balance and fostering a sense of community. Alabama’s outdoors, from Lake Tuscaloosa to local parks, provides plenty of opportunities for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature. Together, these activities not only support your physical health but also help you feel grounded, connected, and at home during your time at UA.

Building Your Alabama Story

Graduate international students often juggle research, teaching, and coursework, making intentional self-care and community building especially important. Graduate organizations and faculty mentors can provide both support and guidance.

As you settle into life at UA, consider giving back, mentoring new students, volunteering during orientation events, or sharing your culture with the campus community. These contributions not only enrich your own journey but also strengthen the experience for future international students.

Moving Forward

Thriving as an international student at UA is not about leaving your culture behind; it’s about embracing it. It’s about integrating who you are with where you are, building resilience, and creating lasting connections. Every challenge you overcome and every friendship you build adds to the vibrant community that makes The University of Alabama stronger.

Your journey matters. Your well-being matters. And at UA, you have the support you need to succeed, not just academically, but personally.

2025 Conference on Global Learning

• June 6th, 2025
• in COIL International Main

Join us November 12–14 for a fully virtual experience that brings together higher education leaders from around the world to explore how we can better prepare students to thrive in a globally connected world. Through global learning—experiences that foster intercultural understanding, connect classrooms to real-world challenges, and encourage engagement across local and international contexts—students gain the skills and perspectives they need to succeed in diverse careers and communities.

Why Should You Attend?

• Fresh Ideas, Proven Approaches: Hear from the leaders who are pioneering new strategies for faculty, students, and community and workforce partners.
• Hands-On Engagement: Dive into interactive workshops and thought-provoking panels, roundtables, and poster sessions that explore the critical questions shaping the future of global learning.
• Connections That Count: Build relationships with educators, changemakers, and thought leaders from campuses and communities around the world.

Reminder: Proposals are due TODAY, June 6
AAC&U is seeking proposals for conference sessions that empower faculty, staff, and administrators to weave global learning into the fabric of educational experiences—for every student, in every setting.

The conference tracks are listed below:

• Community Building for the Collective Good
• Elevating and Integrating COIL and Virtual Exchange
• Full Participation in Global Learning
• Global Engagement for Career and Future Readiness
• Leveraging Technology for Global Learning Innovation
• Making the Case for Global Learning
• Professional Development for Global Learning

Visit the conference website to register and submit your proposal!

THIS WEEK! Chika Unigwe events!

• March 4th, 2025
• in International Main

The English Department is excited to continue their Spring 2025 Visiting Writers Series Tuesday, March 4^th and Wednesday, March 5^th with Nigerian-born novelist Chika Unigwe. They hope you will make every effort to attend her afternoon masterclass/lecture as well as her reading and Q&A the following evening. Faculty, staff and students are all invited.

Explore the World Through Education Abroad Opportunities

• February 13th, 2025
• in Education Abroad International Main

The University of Alabama not only offers countless enriching learning opportunities on campus but can also help students find empowering experiential learning endeavors around the globe.

Zachary Cole, a junior from Madison who is majoring in mathematics with a minor in actuarial science, had a strong desire to learn and travel the globe. So much so that his first trip abroad would be his first time on an airplane.

Cole worked closely with UA’s Education Abroad and External Scholarships and Fellowships offices to secure awards that have allowed him to achieve his goals of studying abroad. He offered some words of wisdom to those who are considering education abroad.

What sparked your interest in seeking study abroad scholarships?

My interest in study abroad awards stemmed from both a financial need and strong desire to experience learning in an international setting. I knew that studying abroad would provide invaluable academic and personal growth, but cost was a major factor. Discovering scholarships through Education Abroad and External Scholarships and Fellowships gave me the confidence to pursue these opportunities.

What was your first education abroad experience?

I traveled to Japan through the Gilman Scholarship, alongside a few other scholarships, through UA, which made the experience possible. During my time in Japan, I took courses both in religion and popular culture.

Through this, I had the chance to immerse myself in the culture, history and language. One of the highlights was visiting significant cultural sites such as Meiji Jingu Shrine, which deepened my understanding of Japan’s traditions.

What was it like having your first experience on an airplane be an international trip?

The experience was both exciting and stressful. Navigating massive airports like Atlanta and Haneda Airport in Tokyo without any prior experience was definitely a challenge, but in the end, it was completely worth it.

How has studying abroad made an impact on your life?

Studying abroad has significantly enhanced my time at UA by broadening my academic perspective, helping me develop a more global mindset and connecting me with so many amazing people. It also strengthened my adaptability, problem-solving skills and cross-cultural communication skills that will benefit me both personally and professionally.

Do you have any additional education abroad trips planned?

I have been selected for the Frederick Douglass and Daniel O’Connell Global Internship program, which will take me to Dublin, Ireland, for eight weeks. As a Douglass-O’Connell Global intern, I will complete academic coursework, immerse myself in my Irish work placement, participate in all program activities, and actively engage with instructors and peers throughout the experience.

How have UA’s Education Abroad and External Scholarships and Fellowships offices helped along the way?

I worked closely with both offices, which were incredibly helpful throughout the process. They guided me through applications, provided resources and ensured I had everything I needed for a successful experience.

What advice would you give to any student who may be considering studying abroad?

I would encourage them to take the leap. The experience is life-changing, and there are so many resources available to make it financially feasible.

Start researching early, apply for as many scholarships as possible and don’t hesitate to reach out to UA offices for guidance. It’s an opportunity that truly transforms your education and worldview.

Students interested in experiential learning opportunities abroad can contact the Education Abroad office or Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships to get started.

UA Graduate Named Fulbright-John Lewis Civil Rights Fellow

• September 26th, 2024
• in International Main

Written by Bryant Welbourne  | 2 min read

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Sean Coffman Atchison, a May 2024 graduate of The University of Alabama, has been named a Fulbright-John Lewis Civil Rights Fellow.

Atchison, a native of Chatom, was one of 29 awardees from around the nation selected to receive the fellowship that is a new part of the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. This new fellowship provides access to activities such as a dedicated lecture series, leadership training and other professional development activities, as well as a capstone seminar after the completion of each awardee’s Fulbright Program. These activities are in addition to, and complement, the fellows’ Fulbright projects.

Through the Fulbright-John Lewis Civil Rights Fellowship, Atchison will continue his research project in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, that focuses on civil rights movements abroad by seeking to understand the modern landscape for aspiring political and social leaders in Brazil.

“Growing up in Alabama, we learn early on the legacy of John Lewis and the other civil rights icons who have bled for us to have a more perfect country,” Atchison said. “John Lewis is an American hero and to be a part of this fellowship recognizing his legacy is a deep honor.

“This fellowship will help facilitate this research through greater networking opportunities, resources and a deeper understanding of the history and tenets of nonviolent civil rights movements.”

Established through bipartisan legislation in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs created the Fulbright-John Lewis Civil Rights Fellowship in 2024 to honor the legacy of the civil rights leader and former member of the U.S. House of Representatives John Lewis.  The fellowship is designed to inspire future generations to carry on his vision of nonviolent civil rights work and provides expanded learning opportunities to Fulbright U.S. Students to promote studies, research and international exchange on nonviolent movements that establish and protect civil rights around the world.

Atchison is a summa cum laude graduate in Latin American studies through UA’s New College. He received a Fulbright Student Research Award earlier this year. Atchison plans to attend Georgetown University to pursue a master’s degree in Latin American studies following his fellowship.

The Long and Safe Road: International Graduate Helps Others

• July 31st, 2024
• in Capstone International Services International Main

(Original Article: https://news.ua.edu/2024/07/the-long-and-safe-road-international-graduate-helps-others/)

Sunday Okafor likes to help others. Before he started studying for his doctorate in civil engineering at The University of Alabama, he knew he wanted to help make roads safer for everyone.

“I love to see a more efficient transportation system; I love to see how we can ensure the safety of people who are moving from one place to another,” Okafor said. “My dissertation was on the idea of instead of looking at the historical crashes to prevent future ones, why not try to do something to prevent the crashes from happening in the first place?”

A first-generation student from Nigeria with five siblings, Okafor came to UA in 2021 after finishing his master’s degree in civil engineering in the United Kingdom. In three short years at UA, he is set to cross the stage in August before heading to Arkansas to work as a project engineer for Garver, an engineering and consulting firm.

He began looking at UA because he had some friends who were already studying here, but he ultimately chose UA for the support and resources offered to international students.

“That understanding of the international community is very important to me,” Okafor said. “Being able to integrate easily and have people that can guide you, the support here, that was a big deal for me to make that decision to come to UA.”

He has presented his research and served on a panel at conferences such as the Transportation Research Board annual meeting and the ITE annual meeting. He also earned the honor of being named a 2024 ITE Young Leader to Follow.

On top of continuing his educational career at UA, Okafor served as the president of the African Students Association and vice president of the UA students’ chapter of the Institute of Transportation Engineers.

Okafor said he has honed his interpersonal skills through these conferences, as a Graduate School Ambassador, and as part of the first class of Graduate Ambassador Influencer Network, GAIN for short, Influencers — a group of students who promote the Graduate School on campus and through social media. He said the experiences he’s had at UA not only made him more confident but also more compassionate.

It is possible to do great things even if you are from a very humble background.

“Emotional intelligence and patience are some things that being an ambassador has helped me fully develop,” Okafor said. “It taught me to be patient with people and put myself in their shoes when I’m trying to respond. Being calm and well-receptive in terms of my responses, it helps those students.”

In his own time, Okafor extends his role as an influencer on X, formerly known as Twitter, and on LinkedIn. He gives advice on applying to graduate school in the United States, and he hosts informational webinars for those students. However, as he transitions to working in the field, he will likely not be on as much, and his content will shift to be more career-centered.

Though his time at the Capstone is coming to a close, Okafor is glad for his experience and the professional development opportunities he received at UA. He wants to encourage others to take a leap of faith and never let others impact their belief in themselves.

“It is possible to do great things even if you are from a very humble background,” Okafor said. “I never doubted what I could do. I always know that whatever I want to do, I can achieve it if I put my mind to it.”