On Monday, November 18, 2024, SMCCCD Study Abroad partnered with the International Student Program of the Global Learning Programs and Services (GLPS) Division to host the Opening Ceremony of International Education Week (IEW). Held in Skyline College’s Fireside Dining Room in Building 6, the event celebrated global learning and cultural exchange with the Skyline College community.
The event commenced with a captivating video highlighting the Ghana Summer 2024 Study Abroad program, created by UMOJA. Following the video, several college leaders delivered inspiring welcome remarks. Dr. Newin Orante, Acting President of Skyline College, Dr. Kristy Lisle, Interim Vice President of Instruction, and Zaid Ghori, Interim Dean of Global Learning Programs and Services (GLPS), each spoke passionately about Skyline College’s dedication to cultivating a community of global learners. Their messages underscored the institution’s commitment to advancing international education and fostering cross-cultural understanding. opportunities.
Recognizing Outstanding Study Abroad Photography
Kelly Li, Study Abroad Program Coordinator, announced the winners of the second annual Study Abroad Photo Contest. With over 100 submissions judged by ambassadors, staff, faculty leaders, and international education teams, winners were recognized in three categories: Host Country Landscape/Culture, SMCCCD Student(s) Self-Portrait, and Cultural Immersion/Interaction.
Congratulations to our winners: Kaela Wilson (Summer 2024 Philippines), Kylie Chan (Spring 2024 Florence), Barbara Plant (Summer 2024 Barcelona), Megan Montero (Summer
2024 Barcelona), Kwame King (Summer 2024 Ghana), Jiselle Pantig-Velasco (Summer 2024 Barcelona), Matthew Spigelman (Summer 2024 Ghana), and Sandy Lam (Summer 2024 Barcelona).
Inspiring Study Abroad Panel
The event also featured a Study Abroad Panel Discussion, moderated by Kelly Li, with alumni Vanessa Arriaga, Bonnie Ball, and Allan Vega. They shared how their unique study abroad journeys shaped their education, careers, and personal growth.
· Vanessa Arriaga (Spring 2024 Florence, Italy): A semester abroad transformed her academic and personal life. Now a Study Abroad Office student ambassador, Vanessa helps encourage others to explore global opportunities.
· Allan Vega (Summer 2024 Internship, Berlin, Germany): With support from the Gilman Scholarship, Allan interned at Neurospace. He returned with valuable lessons that he now applies within his local communities.
· Bonnie Ball (Summer 2024 Ghana): Bonnie’s time in Ghana deepened her understanding of her cultural roots and opened new doors for academic and career opportunities. As she put it, “It’s just the world opening up to you.”
Looking Ahead
Save the Date for IEW 2025! SMCCCD Study Abroad has exciting plans for next year’s International Education Week, including a Free Passport Photo Day, the annual photo contest, and another student panel discussion.
SMCCCD Study Abroad is the district-wide study abroad program housed in the Global Learning Programs and Services Division at Skyline College. For more information about studying or interning abroad, faculty lead abroad opportunities, community travel for lifelong learners, visiting international faculty presenters and student scholarship opportunities, please contact Kelly Li at studyabroad@smccd.edu or by calling 650-738-7098. You can also learn more by visiting the SMCCD Study Abroad Facebook page or Instagram page @smcccd_study_abroad.
Article by Vanessa Arriaga, edited by Kelly Li
Photo by MCPR
