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.

When Amelia Talluri decided to study abroad in Barcelona with API, she was looking for a change of scenery and maybe a little adventure. What she found ended up being much more meaningful!

“Studying abroad in Barcelona not only helped me immerse myself in new cultures by learning about history, art, traditions, and different lifestyles, but it also taught me to take action in my adventures. I became more independent and confident, and I learned how to talk to new people to gain even more knowledge.”

Learning to navigate a new city gave Amelia more than just travel stories. She built confidence in herself, grew more open to new experiences, and learned how to connect with people from different backgrounds.

Her time in Barcelona gave her space to grow on her own terms. She came back with a stronger sense of independence, a broader worldview, and a deeper understanding of what she’s capable of.

Now, It’s Your Turn!

If you’re craving a challenge, a fresh perspective, or just something different, this could be your moment. API programs in Barcelona and across Spain are here to support you every step of the way, from your first application to your final flight home. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at studentoutreach@apiexperience.com! We’re here to help you find the program that’s right for you.

If you’re looking for a way to take your creativity to the next level, go abroad to Florence, just like this Rhode Island College student who took her passion for art beyond the classroom and into the heart of Italy with API. By surrounding herself with centuries of artistic legacy, Caterina Brunell deepened her connection to her craft and transformed her education.

“Study abroad has allowed me to learn and explore the art that I had only studied in textbooks, as well as allowing me to show my love and passion for art through my education in ways I never would have dreamed.”

Florence brought her studies off the page and into real life. She wandered through galleries she once read about. She created art in the very place where the Renaissance began. And most importantly, she connected her passion for art to her education in a way that felt personal, exciting, and deeply fulfilling.

That’s what studying abroad can do! It deepens your passion, stretches your perspective, and gives you the kind of real-world experience that sticks with you long after the semester ends.

It’s Your Turn to Go Abroad to Florence!

Whether you’re passionate about art, language, history, or simply soaking up new cultures, API programs in Florence and across Italy have something for you, and we’re here to help you make it happen. Let this be your moment! Reach out to us at studentoutreach@apiexperiencecom if you have questions or want help picking the right program. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

What if your study abroad experience wasn’t just a semester, but the launchpad for something greater? That’s exactly what happened for Caitlin Heelan, an American University grad who turned her study abroad program in Paris into the beginning of a global career.

After working with the Embassy of France in the U.S., Caitlin had already fallen in love with French culture. But it wasn’t until she arrived in Paris with API that her future truly came into focus.

“After an amazing experience working with the Embassy of France in the U.S., I fell in love with the culture, language, and vibe of this beautiful country. My time abroad with API in Paris solidified my passion for communications and set me on a path to pursue my career here.”

While living in Paris, Caitlin built skills like strategic communication, adaptability, and creativity through real-world experience. She interned with Susan Davis International, honed her storytelling abilities, and discovered how global immersion can shape your voice and vision.

Now, It’s Your Turn!

Why does Caitlin’s story matter to you? Because her path started with a single choice: to study abroad in Paris! And yours can, too. API programs in Paris and across France are designed to give you the cultural depth, career momentum, and personal growth that last far beyond the semester.

If you’re curious, have questions, or want help picking the right program, we’re here for you. Reach out anytime at support-general@apiabroad.com, or start your application today!

Meet Caterina Brunell, an API student who spent her Sundays in Florence soaking up art, history, and culture—all without spending a dime! In this post, she shares her top picks for museums you can visit for free on Florence’s Domenica al Museo (Free Museum Sunday). Get ready to add a few new favorites to your Florence itinerary!

Florence is packed with museums, and getting lost in them is one of the best ways to spend your day. While many visitors flock to the Uffizi Gallery to see Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus or to the Accademia for Michelangelo’s David, there’s so much more to explore—especially when admission is free! On the first Sunday of each month, state-funded museums across the city open their doors at no cost.

If you’re looking to explore free museums in Florence, add these to your list!

The Bargello: Florence’s Oldest Public Building

Once a city hall, later a prison, and now a museum, the Bargello is a treasure trove of Renaissance sculptures and decorative arts. It’s home to Donatello’s famous bronze David—a must-see masterpiece. In the same room, you’ll find Ghiberti and Brunelleschi’s Sacrifice of Isaac bronzes, which sparked the Italian Renaissance in 1401.

This museum is a dream for art and history lovers, filled with armor, metalwork, and intricate carvings. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a local art class sketching amongst the sculptures!

Medici Chapels: A Tribute to Tuscany’s Rulers

Attached to the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the Medici Chapels house the grand tombs of Tuscany’s rulers and their families. The highlight? The Chapel of Princes, an opulent octagonal room covered in Florentine hard stone mosaics (commesso) with towering sarcophagi. The breathtaking painted dome and bronze statues make this a strikingly regal space.

Don’t miss the New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, featuring his stunning sculptures Dawn and Dusk and Night and Day. Some of his original drawings, protected under plexiglass, add an extra layer of history to this already remarkable site.

Palazzo Pitti: A Day-Long Royal Experience

The Pitti Palace, originally purchased by Eleanor of Toledo, became the Medici family’s lavish residence. It’s connected to Palazzo Vecchio by the Vasari Corridor, built for their safety. Today, the palace houses multiple museums and galleries—so plan for a full day here!

Must-See Highlights

• Palatine Gallery & Royal Apartments: Home to the largest collection of Raphael’s paintings, alongside works by Titian, Caravaggio, and Rubens.
• Treasury of the Grand Dukes (Silver Museum): A collection of silverware, jewelry, and intricately carved ivory pieces.
• Gallery of Modern Art: Featuring works from the late 18th to early 20th century.
• Museum of Costume and Fashion: Displays clothing and jewelry from the 18th century to today!
• Boboli Gardens: A sprawling outdoor museum with fountains, grottoes, an amphitheater, and the whimsical Fountain of Little Snouts (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds!). Be sure to wear comfy shoes—this place is huge!

Make the Most of Free Museum Sundays

If you love art, history, and wandering through incredible spaces, Florence’s state museums are the perfect way to spend a Sunday. Whether you’re sketching at the Bargello, marveling at Michelangelo’s work in the Medici Chapels, or getting lost in the grandeur of Palazzo Pitti, there’s something for everyone. Which free museums in Florence do you want to visit first?

Ready to Go Abroad in Florence?

Florence is full of history, art, and hidden gems waiting for you to explore. Why just visit when you can live and study in this incredible city? Check out our programs and start your adventure!

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.

Curious about life while interning abroad? Meet Chloe Sperling, an API alum and marketing graduate at San Diego State University who had an extraordinary journey participating in a project-based internship in Paris. Recently, Chloe shared her personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs during her time with API, providing a real-world glimpse into the life of an intern abroad. 

Read on to see an insider’s look at Chloe’s unique projects and responsibilities during her internship:

Cultural Immersion

Chloe’s internship took place at Wepicurien, a France based e-commerce business that sells natural French wines. She and three other U.S. interns developed positioning and content for the brand with the goal of increasing brand visibility and sales, representing 30% of their business. 

Marked by rich cultural immersion, Chloe interacted with colleagues from France, Sweden, Germany, and Portugal, learning about their languages, customs, and projects. This exposure broadened her understanding of international work cultures and helped her overcome initial apprehensions regarding the language barrier. Her travels across Europe, including attending Bastille Day in Paris and visiting wineries in Bordeaux and Champagne, further deepened her appreciation for diverse cultures and lifestyles.

Skills Gained

Throughout her internship, Chloe worked on Wepicurien’s bilingual website, enhancing her language proficiency in both French and English. This linguistic development was complemented by practical skills in international business and marketing. Engaging with the CEO of Krug champagne provided valuable insights into managing large-scale businesses. 

Her experiences contributed significantly to her professional growth, equipping her with unique competencies that later favored her career with Oak View Group, a global sports and entertainment company, and CG Hunter, a startup specializing in luxury faux greenery and home decor. Her internship also impacted her academic career allowing her to earn credits to graduate early!

API’s Support

API inquired about Chloe’s interests and career goals to ensure her internship placement allowed her to maximize learning and career growth. The project-based nature of the internship fostered collaboration and networking, not just with international peers, but also with fellow students from San Diego State University. API’s connections also facilitated unique learning opportunities, such as a personal tour of the St. Laurent museum, enriching Chloe’s understanding of luxury fashion marketing.

Advice for Future Interns

For those considering a similar journey, Chloe encourages future interns to embrace the challenges and opportunities of working in a diverse environment: 

“I think about the world in a new way and I gained a new sense of confidence and international knowledge that I can carry with me throughout my life.”

Chloe’s story underscores the importance of leveraging such international experiences for academic and career advancement: 

“I am so thankful for this experience because I gained so many opportunities both during the internship and after returning to the states. I benefitted from my experience abroad and expanded professional opportunities coming home.” 

Experience Paris with API

Dreaming of an internship in Paris or another exciting global location? If you’re ready to embark on your own journey, API offers a range of project-based internships tailored to your academic and professional goals. Start your journey and take the leap to discover how an international internship can enhance your resume, broaden your skill set, and change your perspective on the world!

Meet Lindsey Gabler, an API Alum and Global Leader at University of Georgia, who went abroad to Italy. With her recent travels, Lindsey understands the anticipation that comes with preparing for an international adventure! To help future study abroad students like you navigate this thrilling experience, she compiled a list of essential packing tips. These tips are not just about what to pack, but also how to pack efficiently, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the journey.

Resist the Temptation to Pack Your Whole Wardrobe

One of my biggest concerns before going abroad: Will I have everything I need in Italy? I thought I might have to bring my entire wardrobe across the Atlantic Ocean! The night before I left, I even unpacked and repacked my suitcase entirely. I didn’t want to arrive in Italy and realize I had left behind something I desperately needed! Once I arrived, however, I realized the truth: I overpacked. From my time abroad, I learned about bringing the essentials and, consequently, how to avoid a 50-pound suitcase for any future travel.

Check the Weather – Dress for YOUR Body

I went for a spring semester and quickly realized Italy is cold. I traveled with many short sleeve shirts that I needed to layer, and many never made it out of my suitcase. Instead, I wish I used that space to bring more layering pieces that could be mixed interchangeably. For any location, research the expected temperatures for the month, and translate what that means for your body. As a girl from Florida, one temperature for me meant wearing a puffer jacket, while my friend from Vermont felt comfortable in just a sweater! 

Research the Culture – Beware of Pinterest Vacation Boards

Before going to Italy, I thought of the outfits shown on Italian vacation Pinterest boards — sundresses, shorts, and all things summer-related. However, once I arrived I realized Italians do not dress like this. Believe it or not, you may never see a local’s bare legs, even when the weather is hot! I brought so many summer clothes that I would never wear, including tank tops and shorts. In the end, I felt dressing to match the culture of those around me made me feel most at ease. Of course, wear whatever makes you comfortable, but I recommend understanding how the locals dress at your destination, so you can pack accordingly.

Bring Pieces That Will Work Together

When I was packing, I caught myself thinking, “Well, if I do XYZ, this would be perfect to wear.” Most of the time, XYZ didn’t happen, or only occurred once, leaving me with an item never to be worn again. Instead of wasting valuable suitcase space, I recommend thinking of several outfits that can be created from each piece you’re bringing. You’ll want a capsule wardrobe of clothing that will serve you for several occasions. I have not perfected this, but it’s something that is definitely worth looking into before going abroad!

Bulk Up on Essentials

Again, I packed many individual outfits that didn’t work together with the other options I brought. I wish I packed staple pieces — you can always shop while you’re abroad, and the sights you see will make you forget to care about anything you are wearing (For instance, I was wearing a hoodie when I went to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa). My last tip: pack more socks than you think you’ll need. Somehow, I kept running out and found myself doing laundry loads of just socks. Maybe this was just my experience, but better safe than sorry!

Studying abroad is an incredibly rewarding experience I wouldn’t trade for the world, even the moments of hauling around a massive suitcase. I hope these tips help you pack for your journey so you can form memories around your experiences, not your wardrobe. 

Editor’s Note: When traveling in Italy or other countries, you will likely find cobblestone streets and buildings without elevators. When packing, API recommends one checked bag and a carry on or personal item. It’s key to be able to carry everything you brought by yourself!

Shoutout to Our Alumni

Thank you to our API Alumni who continue to share their experiences with us! In sharing, 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!

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!

The spring fair season is here! API will be on college campuses across the country in the upcoming months, and we would love to talk to you! Come say hi to API at one of the spring study abroad fairs listed below! While at our table, sign up to learn more about API and you’ll be entered to win a $1,000 flight voucher!

2024 Spring Study Abroad Fairs

March 25th

Springfield College

March 26th

University of South Dakota

Washington State University

March 27th

Augustana University

March 29th

Morgan State University

April 3rd

Houston Christian University

University of Houston, Clear Lake

April 9th

University of New Mexico

University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee

Don’t see your school listed above? That’s okay!

Click here to complete our contact form and one of our student outreach coordinators will follow up to advise on which programs might be best for you!