Overview

The Texas Leadership Scholars (TLS) program, launched in 2022 by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, was designed to support high-achieving students from rural and underrepresented communities. These first-generation college students are selected for their academic excellence and leadership potential with the goal of developing future leaders who will contribute to the Texas workforce.

Recognizing the value of international experience in leadership development, TLS included a global learning component starting in 2023. The University of North Texas (UNT), which administers the program, partnered with Academic Programs International (API) to design a customized, scalable, and fully funded 2-week study abroad program focused on rural entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement.

Challenge

TLS needed an international experience that would not only fit seamlessly into its statewide structure, but also deliver measurable outcomes. It had to be an engaging, relevant, and inclusive experience that could:

• Meet academic standards across 26 public universities
• Remain financially accessible to high-need students
• Provide relevant, immersive leadership training
• Scale as the program expanded statewide

It was a complex undertaking developing a high-quality study abroad program that satisfied these requirements while accommodating logistical and academic diversity.

Solution

In response to these challenges, UNT collaborated with API to build a fully inclusive, 2-week summer study abroad program tailored to TLS goals. Key features include:

• Curriculum: Students enroll in a 3-credit leadership course at the host university. In Costa Rica, the course “Business Leadership in Rural Settings” at Universidad Veritas focuses on rural entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement.

• Experiential Learning: Field visits introduce students to local entrepreneurs and leaders, encouraging real-world application of course concepts.

• Program Design: The program includes housing, meals, in-country transportation, excursions, flights to and from Costa Rica, and support. Scholars have minimum financial requirements related to their personal needs and travel.

• Scalability: Starting with 10 students in 2023, the program grew to 20 in 2024 and 30 in 2025—a 200% increase in two years. In 2026, TLS will send 40 students: 20 to Costa Rica and 20 to Greece.

Benefits

• Program Growth: TLS study abroad participation has grown by 200% since launch, with further expansion planned.

• Academic Integration: Each program aligns with TLS’s leadership development goals and delivers transferable academic credit.

• Accessibility: State funding removes financial barriers, creating opportunities for everyone to participate.

• Tangible Outcomes: Upon return, the scholars complete a post-trip survey. The survey findings and feedback are presented to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Student Testimonials

“This program was an incredible opportunity, and I’m grateful to have been part of it. The blend of academic challenge, cultural immersion, and leadership development made it one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had as a student.”

“This was such a great and fun experience, one we will always remember. It was a chance to grow personally, connect with new people, and gain a deeper understanding of another culture.”

“The people you meet will change your life. Be open to everything!”

“The trip was awesome! All of the meals were a great representation of Costa Rican culture and tasted amazing. Coffee farm was 10/10—everyone’s favorite! Can’t wait to continue my TLS journey with new friends from all across Texas.”

Participating Institutions

TLS students represent 26 Texas public universities, including:

• East Texas A&M University
• Prairie View A&M University
• Sam Houston State University
• Tarleton State University
• Texas A&M University
• Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
• Texas A&M University Kingsville
• Texas A&M University San Antonio
• Texas State University
• Texas Tech University
• Texas Woman’s University
• The University of Texas
• The University of Texas at Arlington
• The University of Texas at Dallas
• The University of Texas at El Paso
• The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley
• The University of Texas at San Antonio
• The University of Texas at Tyler
• University of North Texas
• West Texas A&M University

Interested in Building Your Own Customized Program?

If you’re exploring ways to bring a tailored, high-impact global experience to your students, API can help. Whether you’re starting from scratch or expanding an existing program, our team has the tools, templates, and expertise to bring your vision to life.

Visit our Customized Programs page to learn more.

Challenge

In an environment where only 38% of U.S. community colleges offer study abroad opportunities (CCIERI 2024–25), the Nebraska Consortium of Community Colleges’ TRIO program stands out as an exception. Six community colleges work together to make international education possible for TRIO-eligible students — including first-generation, low-income, and students with documented disabilities. Coordinating across multiple campuses and funding sources, the consortium needed a provider capable of delivering a complex, multi-campus program with consistent quality and support.

Solution

In 2025, the consortium partnered with API for a Costa Rica program led by Southeast Community College. With each institution sending students, they were able to combine enrollment and secure more affordable pricing. API managed all program logistics — from coordinating faculty needs and student travel to arranging guided cultural excursions — ensuring a seamless experience for both students and leaders. The program offered three academic credit hours and explored Costa Rica’s ecology, tourism economy, and conservation programs. Guided by local experts, participants experienced the Arenal hot springs, Arenal Hanging Bridges, the forest canopy, and the Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, and engaged in a service-learning project in an Indigenous community. Participation goals were met at 100%, with all 28 expected students attending alongside six faculty leaders.

Benefits

• Access for TRIO-eligible students: Targeted first-generation, low-income, or students with documented disabilities; many received Pell Grants or other aid.
• Full participation: 100% of anticipated students attended (28 of 28).
• High-impact learning: Positive feedback on excursions and cultural activities tied to ecology, tourism, and conservation; three academic credits earned.
• Collaborative efficiency: Six colleges share a rotating leadership model and benefit from price breaks with larger combined enrollment.
• Ongoing partnership: The consortium plans to continue working with API annually, aiming to grow participation to 50 students. Past destinations include Italy, France, and Costa Rica, with Greece or Croatia under consideration for future programs.
• Reliable program delivery: API’s expertise in managing complex, multi-campus programs ensured smooth execution, cultural depth, and strong on-site support.

“I enjoyed all the opportunities that were offered and had a great experience. API supported me throughout the program, helping me understand my role and successfully navigate challenges along the way.”
— Samantha H., Southeast Community College, TRIO First Gen; Sole in Costa Rica

Curious how to bring a program like this to your campus? Learn more about building your own Customized and Faculty-Led Programs with API!

The snow melted on the quad. The graduation caps wait in a warehouse to be shipped to campus. You walk to the dining hall, backpack slung over your shoulder, thinking of all you have accomplished as your undergraduate career starts coming to a close: the late nights spent studying for midterm exams, that first semester you made it on the dean’s list, the study abroad program you went on…

Wait, you didn’t study abroad?

Worry not! Even if you graduate this year, you still have time and options to add an international education or career experience to your resume:

Summer Programs

Healthcare and Medical Shadowing in Mendoza

Dates: August 02, 2025 – August 16, 2025

Application Deadline: June 01, 2025

Discover the opportunities available to you in the fields of healthcare and medicine. Shadow medical experts in one of Argentina’s top hospitals, compare public and private healthcare settings, and hear from experts in daily seminars and activities. No Spanish is required! You’ll leave this career expedition with shadowing experience in clinical pathology, general medicine, emergency, and surgery rotations.

Open to Undergraduate, Professional, Continuing Education, and Not Enrolled participants.

International Summer School in Stirling

Dates: Jun 07, 2025 – Aug 02, 2025

Application Deadline: March 24, 2025

Embark on an epic summer adventure in Scotland with API at the University of Stirling! Visit this captivating campus with its own loch and castle, where discovery awaits at every turn. Immerse yourself in top-notch academics, exciting sports, and vibrant student life. Explore the enchanting surroundings, from picturesque green hills to rich historical wonders. Enroll in captivating classes, earning valuable credit toward your degree and experience the magic of Scotland.

Open to Undergraduate or Not Enrolled participants.

Polish Language and Culture Studies in Kraków

Dates: June 26, 2025 – July 27, 2025

Application Deadline: May 08, 2025

Spend the summer studying Polish language and culture in Kraków! Jagiellonian University boasts a prestigious reputation spanning over six centuries and provides a world-class learning environment. Kraków itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a captivating blend of history, art, and entertainment, offering a unique and inspiring setting.

Open to High School, Undergraduate and Not Enrolled participants that are 18 years or older.

Virtual Global Internship

Dates: June 02, 2025 – July 25, 2025

Application Deadline: March 15, 2025

If you’re looking to differentiate your resume, earn essential skills that employers value, and grow your professional network (all from the comfort of home!) then the API Virtual Global Internship program is for you! API will match you with an international organization based on your skills, experience, and professional and personal goals. Virtual internships can be negotiated between full-time and part-time roles. Check out API’s other internship programs here!

Open to Undergraduate, Professional, Continuing Education, and Not Enrolled participants.

Fall Start

Graduate Programs at University of Westminster in London

Dates: September 11, 2025 – December 14, 2025

Application Deadline: April 22, 2025

Study abroad at the graduate level at the University of Westminster! This program offers an expansive array of courses across a wide spectrum of academic disciplines with a campus in the heart of London. Enroll for one semester in classes alongside both British and students from across the world, earn valuable academic credit towards your graduate degree, and see why London is consistently ranked the best city for university students and among the most visited locations in the world!

Open to Professional participants.

MBA at Richmond American University London

Dates: September 01, 2025 – May 04, 2026

Application Deadline: June 22, 2025

London is calling! Fast-track your career with an MBA at Richmond American University. Immerse in London’s global business landscape while mastering financial management, strategic principles, and global marketing. Choose from diverse electives like ethical marketing, sustainable business, and entrepreneurship. Graduates earn US and UK degrees, with post-graduation work visa options. Embrace the cosmopolitan vibe of London and ignite your MBA journey today!

Open to Professional participants.

Are you wondering if you should study or intern abroad? If you’re unsure, sometimes hearing the stories of students who have gone before you may help you decide between your options. Take it from Alyssa Jones, a student at The University of Arkansas, who interned abroad at a mental health clinic in Barcelona, Spain. After going abroad to work in a different country, Alyssa shared her story with our API team. Read her experience below, and learn why an internship abroad in Barcelona can be an exceptional choice for gaining hands-on work experience! 

Alyssa’s Journey

Alyssa, had always harbored a deep desire to travel and explore the world, sharing, “I found API through my university’s study abroad office and knew instantly that I didn’t want to just take classes, but really immerse myself in another culture. I wanted to intern in a facility that would benefit me in the future while also giving me hands-on experience.”

The Allure of an Internship Abroad in Barcelona

Choosing an internship abroad in Barcelona was an easy decision for Alyssa. The city’s stunning beaches, architectural marvels by Gaudi, and unique Catalonian culture all beckoned to her adventurous spirit.

Upon arriving in Barcelona, Alyssa formed deep connections with her roommates. She lived with five girls from various corners of the United States, each pursuing different fields of study. Together, they embarked on a transformative summer abroad. From leaning on each other for support to sharing meals, they created lasting memories!

A Transformative Internship Experience

Alyssa’s internship at a mental health clinic provided her with a wealth of captivating stories. As a psychology major aspiring to work in that field, she gained valuable insights. This included a deeper look into professional patient interaction and the importance of building trust before effective work could begin.

One of the big takeaways for her future career were the marked differences in mental health treatment and perception compared to the United States. In Spain, she observed an emphasis on interpersonal relationships and talk therapy, which fostered trust between patients and providers. She noticed this contrasted the more medication-focused approach often seen in America. With this new global perspective from interning abroad, she will carry valuable knowledge into her studies and professional pursuits after graduation.

A Life-Changing Journey

Interning abroad in Barcelona turned out to be a transformative experience for Alyssa. She reflects, “Interning abroad was one of the best things I could have done not only for my professional future, but for my personal understanding of the world. Getting to immerse yourself in another culture is life changing and opens your eyes to a different world, pushing you to grow and adapt” 

Alyssa continues, “I’m forever thankful to API and my intern abroad family for the countless memories and the experience of a lifetime!”

It’s Your Turn to Go Abroad

Feeling inspired by Alyssa’s journey? We have internship abroad programs waiting for you all across the globe where you can kickstart your career all while exploring new cultures. Check out other internship abroad programs we offer! 

Shoutout to Our Alumni!

Lastly, we wanted to give a big thank you to our API Alumni who shared their experiences with us! In sharing your stories, we spread the word about the benefits of studying and interning abroad. Your story may have a positive impact on other students, encouraging them to consider a life-changing experience abroad! 

If you studied or interned abroad with API, and wish to share your memories, experiences, travel tips, and more, please reach out! You can DM us through our Instagram account @apiabroad or email our Director of Alumni, Hannah Olevson, at hannah.olevson@apiexperience.com. We look forward to featuring your story!

Challenge

In the fall of 2022, University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) students and Dr. Julian Zabalbeascoa, visiting communications professor and study abroad coordinator for the Honors College, were preparing for a winter break study abroad program in Cuba. However, at the end of October,  just a few weeks from their departure date, UML and API made the decision to pivot the program from Cuba to Chile. The decision was made as Cuba was still reeling from the destruction caused by Hurricane Ian, which hit the island in September 2022, and the aftermath had made resources and safety a legitimate concern. 

Solution

API, known for prioritizing student safety, determined the best course was to allow Cuba to recover without further stressing its infrastructure. With the departure date quickly approaching, API and UML worked together to quickly pivot the 10-day program from Havana, Cuba to a culturally immersive experience in Valparaíso, Chile. 

Outcomes & Benefits

• Working with API, Zabalbeascoa successfully led the popular Culture and Society program in Valparaíso, Chile in January 2023 with 21 students — a 31% increase over its previous run in Havana, Cuba three years before. 

• Zabalbeascoa and his students enjoyed the benefits of the API team’s agility, both stateside and on-site in Chile, as they worked in concert to make sure everything went smoothly in spite of the last minute changes. 
• API’s partnership-first approach to customized programming allowed the program to not only move forward, despite numerous obstacles, but be the perfect program neither the faculty nor the student expected. 
• UMass Lowell Honors College students were able to stay on track with their academic pursuits and gain valuable international experience as a result of the API/UML partnership.

Shifting Gears, FAST

In dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian hitting Havana, Cuba, UML and API were faced with a challenge just weeks before their departure date: pivot or cancel their customized Honors College study abroad program. They made a decision to pivot and in a matter of days the program was able to continue without disruption.

Zabalbeascoa had worked with API and led this program previously, in Cuba. He had never been to Chile, so he put his trust in API and their network of resources. To quickly acquaint themselves with Chile before the trip, students were assigned the task of giving virtual presentations about Chile, covering a wide range of topics such as the 1973 Chilean coup d’état and the street art scene in Valparaíso. Of the students’ adaptability, Zabalbeascoa said, “The students’ flexibility was an incredible thing to behold. I’ve noticed, especially since the pandemic, students who sign up for study abroad programs are determined to experience all that they can.”

While UML prepared to attend the program in a new location, API worked rapidly with their resources in Valparaíso to ensure meaningful experiences enhanced Zabalbeascoa’s curriculum.

A Pleasant Surprise

Once on the ground, Zabalbeascoa found himself impressed with the new location, sharing, “by the time our plane touched down in Santiago, you would have never guessed Chile wasn’t their first option.”

Students and faculty alike were not only pleasantly surprised by how much they loved Chile, they were also delighted by the enthusiasm of API’s Chilean staff. They loved the dynamic API’s resident director, Alejandra Rojas, added to the group and the work she did so quickly to provide a quality experience. 

“This ideal situation improved dramatically when we met our API representative Alejandra Rojas,” said Zabalbeascoa. “The students adored her, and I loved working with her. Her enthusiasm for introducing us to her country never flagged, not once. The students were already excited for each moment to come in Chile, but her energy brought the group dynamic to another level. In many ways, she made the experience for us. I very much look forward to working with her again.”

Not only did they not have to cancel the program, the new location was so successful that Zabalbeascoa plans to alternate locations between Cuba and Chile in future, noting “…there needs to be another one after this…because there’s a lot more I’d like to include.”

Honored to be the First

Students felt so proud to be part of this UML cohort, they adopted the motto “honored to be the first” to experience this new location for UML students in Zabalbeascoa’s class.

To learn more about this program and the student’s experiences, visit the UML website. Interested in building your own customized program with API? Learn more about the API Value and our six-step custom program process now.

In early 2023, 10 students and two faculty from the University of Wisconsin-Stout (UW-Stout) traveled across Costa Rica. They had a transformative experience studying politics and modern business challenges through a Latin American lens. Leveraging a partnership with API and funding from an IDEAs grant from the U.S. Dept. of State’s Capacity Building Program, it was the first of its kind for the university. 

Exploring International Business in Latin America

API and UW-Stout’s Office of International Education (OIE) developed the program. The overarching goal was to improve access to global learning and experiences for students of different minority backgrounds. The flagship program, Exploring International Business in Latin America, was open to all business students. However, it was primarily focused on Latinx students and nearly half of participants had this background. Increasing access to global educational experiences for all is closely aligned with API’s mission. So, we gladly built a hands-on, high-impact experiential learning program leveraging our global network and skilled on-the-ground team. 

Led by a father-daughter team, Dr. Glenn Rodríguez, “Dr. G,” and UW-Stout Provost Glendalí Rodríguez, the students visited a diverse range of businesses. They centered around the capital city of San Jose and cultural and environmental sites. In addition to the focus on Latin American culture and heritage, another objective of the program was to teach students how businesses in Latin America vary due to the culture and politics of the country.

Making the Most of Experiential Learning in Costa Rica

“Our group was unique in a positive way,” Provost Rodríguez said. “We got our hands dirty, tried new foods, and interacted with the community. We’re very engaged because we are a polytechnic. We’re ready to make the most of every learning experience — and API recognizes that in our students.”

“The group gelled…,” Dr. G added. “I was absolutely thrilled when the first morning we’re all there…They were in the classroom and they’re sitting next to their roommate. By the next morning, I would have thought they picked each other. It was a perfect, perfect match…To bring 10 strangers together with instructors they’ve never met before and build community, it was beautiful.”

The UW-Stout group immersed themselves in the areas they visited while exploring cultural and historical sites, giving several students studying Spanish an opportunity to practice their language skills and further their polytechnic experience while abroad. Sarah Durst, a junior in hotel, restaurant and tourism management, shared, “This really put my direct interpretation skills to the test, something that written classroom tests couldn’t do.”

Through this experience, Provost Rodríguez and participants also developed deeper relationships with the local API staff. Over the course of the trip, API was able to secure many of the same staff, such as the same bus driver, with them throughout the week for continuity. “We got the bus driver to dance with us, he had never danced in his life. He did salsa with the students!” Provost Rodríguez noted. 

UW-Stout Partnership with API and IDEAS

Providing access to students from minority backgrounds, and those who traditionally do not participate in study abroad, is a long-term goal for this program. Building on the success of the customized API program, UW-Stout hopes to expand to Asia and Africa. Scott Pierson, Director of the Office of International Education at UW-Stout noted,“With only 11% of U.S. undergraduate students participating in study abroad, and disproportionately lower underrepresented participation, the United States has much work to do to provide access and equity…This program, through a partnership with API and IDEAS, has helped us to make an immediate impact in advancement of these efforts,” he added.

API’s team in both Costa Rica and stateside built enriching and meaningful experiences in all program aspects. Andrew Probelski, an adult learner participant, noted, “Study abroad will broaden your cultural aperture, shatter expectations and stereotypes, and give you life-changing new perspectives on how others live. Ideally, you will come away from your study abroad experience a better person — I did. I am beyond grateful to UW-Stout, API, and everyone that made this a reality for me.”

To learn more about this program and the student’s experiences, visit the UW Stout  website. Interested in building your own customized program with API? Learn more about the API Value and our six-step custom program process now.

If you’re considering studying or interning abroad, you may wonder what your journey will actually look like. One of the best ways to learn more about going abroad is to hear the stories of those who have gone before you! Meet Ignacio, an API student studying abroad in Croatia. Ignacio shared with us a little more about his experience being abroad with API!

Finding the Right Program

The process of finding the right program for me with API was smooth and applying was super easy! The API website makes it easy to navigate their programs. One of the things that was most helpful for me was the ability to see the courses offered very early in the application process. The API website provides you with a syllabus for each of the courses offered in the programs. Leading up to the trip, communication was good and API makes it easy to connect with your peers before you embark on your adventure.

Once You’re There

Once on site studying abroad in Croatia, I was able to do some exploring on my own before the program started. I got to visit Paris a couple of days before my program started and that was a super fun experience! My time in Croatia has been a dream and an opportunity to work on myself while meeting lots of other amazing students from all over the world. I have had the opportunity to listen to so many stories and hear about other cultures. As well as learn about the history of this city and this country. 

Going Abroad Inspires Reflection

I have found myself various times looking into the beautiful views and sunsets and getting a little bit emotional, these sights are breathtaking. In all honesty, this trip has given me the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and do things that I could have never done in the fast-paced life that I was living. I have had the opportunity to see different lifestyles and ways of enjoying life. 

Embracing New Language Skills

Aside from the new perspectives of life, classes have also been great during my time here. As a language lover, it has made me very happy to have the opportunity to learn Croatian (even though it is not very similar to English or Spanish! haha). I am taking 3 other courses in my field of study and I have enjoyed the independence that students are given. I have been able to develop good relationships with my professors and they have even taken my class out for coffee! 

Housing When Studying Abroad in Croatia

My accommodation here is similar to residence halls. I have a roommate and we live on a floor with various other students. Each room has its own bathroom, which is super nice, and we have the cafeteria in the same building as the dormitory. Meals here have reasonable prices (approximately €2.50 per meal). The dorms also have a gym and another restaurant within the facility! We have had the opportunity to experience the culture of Croatia various times. We have attended a Symphony Orchestra show, toured the Old City of Dubrovnik, and tasted a LOT of delicious seafood 

I have only been here for a month, and I am looking forward to all that is yet to come. This including all the ways I want to improve on myself. If there is a student out there who wants to study abroad, I highly encourage you to take that leap, step out of your comfort zone, and go to a country where they don’t speak your language. You will learn and most importantly, crave to meet this world. One lifetime is not long enough to see everything this world has to offer; if you have the opportunity to see even a little bit more of what is out there, do it!

It’s Your Turn to Go Abroad!

Feeling inspired by Ignacio’s experience? Are you ready to take the leap yourself? Croatia is waiting for you! For more information about studying abroad in Croatia or other locations across the globe, check out our program finder! 

Phone, wallet, keys… and passport! Your passport is your ticket to international travel. Without it, your study abroad process might be stalled. Don’t miss out on study abroad as a result of a delayed or expired passport! Apply for a passport or renew your passport TODAY!

First-Time Passport Applicants

Instructions and advice can be found on the U.S. Department of State website: How to Apply for a Passport. Also, make sure to check with your study abroad office on campus to see if your university has a passport grant or assistance in funding your first passport! Here are the materials you’ll need to apply:

• DS-11 form (this is just the passport application, which can be downloaded by following the link above, or check your local post office for physical copies).
• Evidence of U.S. citizenship and a copy (like your birth certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship)
• Photo ID and a copy
• A passport photo

If You Already Have a Passport

If you have a passport already, check the expiration date. Many countries require that the passport be valid for at least 6 months AFTER your intended date of departure from the country. (So, if your program ends in May, your passport would need to be valid through at least November). If you need to renew your passport, instructions on how to do so by mail are available through the U.S. Department of State website. Please note, however, that in order to renew by mail, the following requirements must be met:

• You must have your current passport in your possession, and it must be in good condition (normal wear and tear is acceptable).
• The passport must have been issued within the last 15 years, and you must have been at least 16 years of age at the time it was issued.
• The passport was issued in your current name, or you can provide documentation of the legal change of your name.

 If you do not meet all of these requirements, you’ll have to apply in person for a new passport (see link above for how to apply for a new passport).

The U.S. Department of State website says that the processing time for submitting or renewing a passport is 6 to 9 weeks. But we recommend starting the passport process ASAP in case of delays due to Covid. If you’re in a time crunch, API recommends that you pay for expedited processing and pay the extra fee for expedited return mailing fee. In doing this, you can track its mailing and delivery.  

Keep Visas in Mind

As a reminder, many countries require U.S. students to obtain visas in order to enter the country. Different countries have different visa requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website of the country you want to study in to find out what is required and how to schedule an appointment. 

Similar to the passport process, consulates have been inundated with appointments following Covid. Contact the consulate or embassy as early as possible to secure an appointment. Note: you may need proof of program enrollment from the university or college that you are going to attend. Some consulates may have very specific instructions for when you can officially request an appointment. (If you’ve already applied to an API program, your API advisor can also provide you with information on the visa process, if applicable.)

Once your appointment is scheduled, the process of obtaining your visa can take anywhere from 2-3 months. This processing time depends on the country, the consular requirements, the volume of requests, and so on. In order to obtain a visa, you must also submit your valid passport. What does this mean? If you plan to travel to a country that requires a visa, and you do not have a valid passport, you’ll need to start the application process early enough to have your passport in hand at least 3 months in advance of your program start date. This allows sufficient time for visa processing.

The good news? Once you have your U.S. passport, it is valid for 10 years, so you have a decade of international travel and opportunities to explore the world!

As we return from the NAFSA conference, we are proud to announce that API won the GoAbroad award for Innovation in Online Programming for our Quarantine and Self-Isolation Learning Experience!

API designed a unique skills-based learning experience for program participants who may have to quarantine or self-isolate during their in-country international experience. Our objective was to produce an experience that gave students a meaningful and productive way to use their time. We also wanted to combat any culture shock or homesickness that may be exacerbated through quarantine and self-isolation. 

In the experience, students navigate content modules designed to develop essential skills necessary to maximize their time abroad. These skills include resilience, mindfulness, intercultural learning, reflection, and goal-setting. Additionally, learners receive support from API on-site staff, including regular chats, check-ins, and notifications all delivered via the APIConnect Learning Experience App. The learning experience is designed for the students to navigate over multiple days during quarantine or self-isolation and encompasses around 15 contact hours of student work. 

The course is the result of a cross-functional collaboration at API, with our Proprietary Programming Team (namely Brody Tate, Curriculum Developer and Jamie Weaver, Instructional Designer) working closely with on-site staff, including Regional and Resident Directors, and API’s Student Success team to ensure students have an engaging quality learning experience. 

With API’s Pausing for Perspective: Quarantine and Self-Isolation Learning Experience, students have the chance to meaningfully use their time in quarantine that promotes increased well-being and mindfulness. 

You can learn more about our award and other GoAbroad winners here.

Want to learn more about how API can help you design and deliver meaningful learning experiences that scaffold intentional student skill development? APIConnect Members gain access to original content and our award-winning programming and instructional design services.